Keeping Pace

I have a pacemaker.  It's been lodged in my chest for almost 6 years now and I hardly even know its there.  Except for the times I do and it irritates me.  I know I am being a baby and that people have real medical issues to concern themselves with, but I am going to feel a little sorry for myself this morning.

The thing was a pain this weekend.  First I bought an awesome dress to wear to a party Saturday night and I swear instead of noticing the great neckline, all I could see is the giant bump and scar.  I tried some scarf thing and even a ridiculously huge necklace, but decided to just let it shine hideously uncovered.

Sunday we went to see our newly born nephew (he is a doll!) and of course the pacemaker would not stop pumping.  When it goes off (which is about 6% of my heartbeats) it usually is only for a second or two.  Well wouldn't you know it the thing wouldn't stop - so it was uncomfortable and annoying for about 2 minutes.   I look ridiculous standing there with my hand over my chest waiting.  Thankfully I think the baby took all the attention so no one noticed the dumb look on  my face.

Then this morning I had to check in.  The device needs to be checked quarterly.  Fortunately I can do three of those checks at home from this silly looking plastic monitor.

 It only takes about 10 minutes,  which is pretty incredible as it is downloading my heart beats at something like 5 minute intervals for the past three months.  That's a lot of data.  A little invasive as well.  When I have to see the tech at the telemetry office, he always makes note of the times my heart is racing.  Think about it - my heart races when I am excited - does the tech really need that info?

I know I should be thankful and I am.  Bottom line is that I don't pass out anymore, which makes the people around me a lot happier.  Maybe I should just get a tattoo over it?  Any suggestions?