A Stubborn Mind Finds a New Perspective

While getting ready for my husband’s MRI, Chris told me he’s had nearly 30 years of bad luck. We were both nervous that he would need surgery on his ankle and foot. I hoped for the best. I told him he was exaggerating.

He urged me to think of a time he was truly lucky and it wasn’t a result of his skill or intelligence.

Immediately, he said, “Hah! You can’t”. I stood there for a few minutes. I thought of a few instances.

Chris ordered a Kickstarter game and it was delivered a week early.

When he was considering buying his dream car, a local dealership had it. The dealership gave him a high trade-in value for his car. Even better, he was approved for a lower monthly payment. My husband agreed that was pretty lucky. I continued.

At the end of 2016, the owner of the rental house we were staying in decided to sell it. We weren’t interested in purchasing it.

We were fortunate to find a decent rental house and move in within one month of our move out date.

If you only look for the bad, you’ll find it. If you look for the good, you’ll find that too.

My husband was convinced he has had some good luck. He had it on his own and with me.

Still, Chris was feeling uneasy about the MRI. I had an MRI of my brain in 2012. He asked me if it was the test that mimics the sensation of “peeing yourself.” I laughed and confirmed. I let him know I had contrast done. He won’t.

I reassured my husband that his MRI will be much easier. I told Chris that his MRI will probably be shorter, quieter, and more comfortable. Since he wasn’t having an MRI of his brain, he wouldn’t have a cage placed over his face. The cage was to prevent me from moving my head during my MRI.

Chris went in for his MRI and it was over in about 30 minutes. He listened to the music of his choice.

I was messaging my sweet mother-in-law during the wait. She and I have undergone our fair share of medical tests. She’s been through many more.

Chris told me the test hurt. I hadn’t expected that. When he explained it, it made sense. My brain and head weren’t sore. His ankle and foot were.

We received the MRI results and the doctor’s report a few days early. It showed torn and stretched muscles, but no broken bones. Thankfully, no surgery was needed.

Chris has been going to physical therapy for about three weeks. They said he’s doing exceptionally well. For short daily walks, he’s only been relying on his ankle brace for support. He still has the walking boot. This week, he’s hoping to no longer need it. I hope he gets more good news at his follow-up appointment.

I described this post to my husband. He claimed “confirmation bias.” I love my goofy, stubborn guy. We’re pretty lucky to have each other’s support.

If you or your loved one are anxious about an upcoming medical test or procedure, talk with your doctor about it. Talk with individuals who have had a similar operation. Also, you can research the process to educate yourself. Be careful not to overthink “what if” scenarios. That thought process can heighten anxiety.

I hope you find peace of mind in your research. I wish you the best.


Disclaimer: This blog is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of a medical or mental health professional. The reader is advised to regularly consult with a physician in matters relating to his/her health and particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require medical attention.