Tag: Navy (Page 23 of 44)

Since it’s Friday’s blog, today will be a little “lighter” than during the previous week’s posts. Within Poe, there are customized bots made available to the public. One such is named ScriptifyPro. I used it with the following prompt and results to write a ballad about myself. I also ran this script through Pictory.ai and made the following video which is embedded first below. Enjoy!

Prompt: Write a ballad about a retired US Navy Commander named Hank who as a result of exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam is on dialysis.

In the land of heroes, a tale I will weave,
Of a retired Commander, brave and bold, Hank by name,
With a lifetime of service to the Navy, he gave,
But burdened by Agent Orange’s cruel flame.

Hank, a seasoned warrior, sailed through Vietnam’s tide,
Fighting for freedom, with honor and might,
Unaware of the danger that silently lied,
Agent Orange, a toxin that would haunt him at night.

As the years rolled on, his health began to fade,
For the poison had woven its web deep within,
His body weakened, his spirit never swayed,
But the toll on his life, it was a battle to win.

Now retired from duty, a new fight he embraced,
For Hank, it was not the end, but a new chapter’s start,
Seven times a week, dialysis he faced,
A warrior’s spirit, pumping strength to his heart.

With each dialysis session, Hank stood tall,
Gathering courage, never one to complain,
He shared stories of valor with one and all,
A testament to resilience through the pain.

His shipmates rallied, forming a bond so tight,
Supporting their Commander, their friend through the years,
Together they fought, shining a beacon of light,
For Hank, their hero, deserving of cheers.

Though the battle within may never cease,
Hank’s determination remained unwaveringly strong,
A symbol of sacrifice, a true masterpiece,
A Navy Commander, enduring lifelong.

So raise a glass, for Hank, the courageous and true,
A retiree who faced adversity with grace,
His bravery shines, a beacon for me and you,
A testament to the indomitable human race.

In the annals of history, Hank’s story will live,
A ballad of courage, resilience, and might,
A tribute to those who selflessly give,
And a reminder to cherish each precious day and night.

Last Friday at 1600 no less, in a town about 40 miles from home, Stephenville, TX, I met with my new audiologist provided by the VA. He is part of the Livingston chain of hearing aid suppliers in Texas. Everything went as expected as far as assessment etc. Yes, I need new hearing aids – yeah! But in my case, he recommended in-ear rechargeable ones. He took impressions of both of my ear canals with a substance in a tube that felt like caulking for windows. Except it solidified in a short period and he was able to completely remove the impressions in one fell swoop. He said he had to obtain approval from the VA which would take up to a month and we’d go from there. He also said that I would be seeing him quarterly hereafter to ensure my hearing was attended to. This is something new.

This leads to the question “How do over-the-ear aids compare to in-ear aids?” To addresses this query, I turned to Poe again with the following results:

Prompt: Recently my audiologist prescribed an in-ear hearing aid for me for which he took impressions of both of my ear canals. Describe in some detail the differences between an over-the-ear hearing aid and a rechargeable one that fits in the ear canal. Positive and negatives, please.

DoctorSage Poe
Certainly! Let’s compare the differences between an over-the-ear (OTE) hearing aid and a rechargeable in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid that fits in the ear canal. Both types of hearing aids have their own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a detailed overview:

Over-the-ear (OTE) Hearing Aid:
Positive aspects:

Amplification power: OTE hearing aids tend to have larger batteries and more space for advanced technology, allowing for higher amplification power and better sound processing capabilities.
Comfort and fit: OTE hearing aids rest behind the ear, making them suitable for individuals with different ear canal sizes. They are generally more comfortable to wear and cause less occlusion (blocked feeling) in the ear canal.
Durability and maintenance: Due to their larger size, OTE hearing aids are often more robust and less prone to damage. They are easier to clean and maintain.
Negative aspects:

Visibility: Some individuals may feel self-conscious about wearing a visible hearing aid since OTE devices are more noticeable than those that fit inside the ear canal.
Wind noise: OTE hearing aids may be more susceptible to wind noise, which can affect sound quality during outdoor activities.
Feedback: Since the microphone and receiver are located outside the ear, the possibility of feedback (whistling sound) is slightly higher compared to ITE hearing aids.
Rechargeable In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aid:
Positive aspects:

Cosmetics: ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit the shape of the individual’s ear canal, making them discreet and less noticeable.
Convenience: Rechargeable ITE hearing aids eliminate the need for frequent battery changes. They usually come with a portable charging case that allows for easy and on-the-go charging.
Sound quality: ITE hearing aids can provide a more natural sound perception since they are placed closer to the eardrum, allowing for better sound localization and improved directionality.
Negative aspects:

Battery life: Rechargeable ITE hearing aids typically have a shorter battery life compared to traditional disposable battery-powered devices. However, advancements in technology have led to longer-lasting rechargeable batteries.
Size limitations: Due to the size constraints of the ear canal, ITE hearing aids may have limited space for advanced features and larger batteries, potentially impacting the availability of certain high-end functionalities.
Maintenance: ITE hearing aids require regular cleaning and maintenance to avoid wax build-up and ensure optimal performance. They may be more susceptible to damage from moisture and earwax.
It’s important to note that the choice between an OTE hearing aid and a rechargeable ITE hearing aid depends on several factors, including the individual’s hearing loss, lifestyle, personal preference, and the recommendation of the audiologist. A thorough evaluation by an audiologist will help determine the most suitable type of hearing aid for your specific needs.

If you have any further questions or need more specific information, please let me know!

Can you explain how the sound quality of an over-the-ear hearing aid compares to a rechargeable in-the-ear hearing aid?

DoctorSage Poe
Certainly! When comparing the sound quality of an over-the-ear (OTE) hearing aid to a rechargeable in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid, there are a few factors to consider:

Amplification and Power: OTE hearing aids generally have more space for advanced technology, including larger batteries and amplifiers. This allows for higher amplification power and more sophisticated sound processing capabilities. As a result, OTE devices can often provide a broader frequency response range and more precise sound amplification, which may contribute to improved sound quality.

Proximity to the Ear: ITE hearing aids, being placed directly in the ear canal, can provide a more natural sound perception since the sound is delivered closer to the eardrum. This proximity can enhance sound localization and improve the ability to perceive subtle nuances in speech and environmental sounds. The closer positioning of the microphone and receiver in ITE devices can also reduce the possibility of sound distortion or interference.

Sound Occlusion: OTE hearing aids are positioned behind the ear, which generally results in less occlusion or a blocked feeling in the ear canal. In contrast, ITE hearing aids occupy a portion of the ear canal, potentially leading to a slight occlusion effect. This occlusion may affect the perception of one’s own voice, low-frequency sounds, and overall sound quality. However, modern ITE hearing aids are designed to minimize occlusion and provide more natural sound experiences.

Personalization and Customization: Both types of hearing aids can be programmed and adjusted to an individual’s specific hearing needs. However, ITE hearing aids, being custom-made to fit the shape of the ear canal, can offer a more personalized and tailored fit. This customized fit may improve sound delivery and localization, contributing to a better overall sound experience.

It is important to note that the perception of sound quality is subjective and can vary from person to person based on individual preferences and needs. Factors such as the degree and type of hearing loss, the specific technology and features of the hearing aids, and the expertise of the audiologist in fitting and programming the devices can all influence the perceived sound quality.

Ultimately, the choice between an OTE hearing aid and a rechargeable ITE hearing aid should be based on a comprehensive evaluation by an audiologist, taking into consideration the individual’s hearing profile, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

In yesterday’s blog, I cited in its entirety an article by DavidJ_PLMin in which he cited two new drugs that show promise in the treatment of CKF. In this blog, we will investigate the first of the two cited, namely sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2).To accomplish this I turned to my AI right hand Poe. Poe has a customized bot named DoctorSage that addresses medical questions. I queried the bot with the following prompt and results:

Prompt: There is a new drug used in treating CKD named sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2). Tell me everything there is to know about this treatment.

DoctorSage Poe

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2 inhibitors) are a relatively new class of medications used in the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). These medications work by inhibiting the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, leading to increased urinary glucose excretion. This mechanism of action not only helps in controlling blood sugar levels but also offers potential benefits in managing CKD. Here’s everything you need to know about SGLT2 inhibitors:

1. Mechanism of action: SGLT2 inhibitors primarily target the SGLT2 transporter located in the proximal tubules of the kidneys. By inhibiting this transporter, they prevent the reabsorption of glucose, resulting in increased glucose excretion in the urine.
2. Glycemic control: SGLT2 inhibitors are primarily used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). By reducing renal glucose reabsorption, these medications lower blood glucose levels, leading to improved glycemic control. They can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic medications.
3. Cardiovascular benefits: SGLT2 inhibitors have shown significant cardiovascular benefits in patients with T2DM and established cardiovascular disease (CVD). Studies have demonstrated a reduction in the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, with the use of SGLT2 inhibitors.
4. Renal benefits: The use of SGLT2 inhibitors has shown promising results in preserving kidney function and preventing the progression of CKD. These medications have been associated with a reduction in albuminuria (the presence of albumin in the urine) and a decrease in the risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or the need for renal replacement therapy.
5. Blood pressure and weight reduction: SGLT2 inhibitors have been found to have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect. Additionally, they promote weight loss, which can be beneficial in patients with T2DM who are overweight or obese.
6. Adverse effects: The most common side effects of SGLT2 inhibitors include urinary tract infections, genital fungal infections, and increased urination. There have been rare cases of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious condition characterized by elevated ketone levels in the absence of high blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is essential to monitor for signs of DKA, especially in patients with T1DM or a history of DKA.
7. Contraindications and precautions: SGLT2 inhibitors should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal function, as they may increase the risk of acute kidney injury. They are contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease. It is important to assess renal function before starting treatment and regularly monitor renal function during therapy.

It’s worth noting that specific SGLT2 inhibitors available in the market may have slight differences in their pharmacokinetics and clinical effects. Therefore, it is crucial to consult the prescribing guidelines and individual drug information for detailed information on specific SGLT2 inhibitors.

A listing of SGLT2 drugs is provided at this link for further information.

Friday is a good day to mentally reflect on the past week and update the blog on some of the more gritty aspects of a dialysis life. So here’s some of the back stories in my life this week:

1. Since reducing one of my blood pressure meds from 10 mg to a 5 mg dose, my blood pressure responded well and the last six mornings have been over the minimum of 90 over 60. Thursday morning it was 110/62, just about perfect. It appears we have this defugality resolved, at least for now.
2. I have been having problems with my Abbott Libre 3 sensor. Recall this sensor provides me with real-time glucose readings to aid my diabetes control. Normally at night, I plug my phone into its AC charger on my desk in our study which is about 15 feet from our bed. Usually, the phone stays connected to the CGM and all is well. On rare occasions, the phone breaks connection, and the glucose reading goes down reaching the alarm stage of about 53. This causes my wife to get up and ascertain what the alarm is all about. She often wants me to chug orange juice to alleviate low glucose when in fact I feel fine and am not experiencing lows – no sweating and feeling it. The only way around this is to turn the phone off. This morning when I turned the phone back on the Libre 3 app informed me that my sensor had crapped out and to install a new one. This is two days before it was up for a normal last two-week replacement. From all of this, I ascertain that potentially there is something amiss with Libre 3 sensors.
3. I fought the VA and I won! I have previously related that I had to travel to the Ft Worth VA audiology clinic to be fitted for new hearing aids. The doctor there stood up for me and as a result, I received notification that a civilian audiologist in Granbury would be providing me hearing aids with an appointment in March. Since one of my hearing aids is in for repair, I desired to move this up if possible. I called the civilian office and got an appointment for 1600 today in Stevensville, some 43 miles away. Although this is roughly the same distance as we are from Ft Worth VA, it is a pleasurable drive through the remote Texas countryside from our digs. What’s not to like?
4. I spent some time last Saturday at our son’s new digs in the Palo Pinto TX area installing a new 5G Tp-Link Deco Mesh network system in his partially completed ICF (insulated concrete forms) home. He and his wife have now completed moved into the first floor/garage area from the trailer they were living in. His wife works from home and uses the internet heavily in her work as a graphic artist. As such, she requires as good an internet connection as she can get; the mesh network in connection with a T-Mobile 5G internet setup provided her on the order of a 150 Mbps down and 30 Mbps up connection which is more than adequate, even through the concrete wall of their digs.

The lead graphic was made using Poe with the prompt: “picture of the English shops selling “bits and bobs.” In England, Bits and Bobs equates to “this and that,” the subject of today’s blog.

Increasingly since I have been on peritoneal dialysis, my wife has advised me of my bad breath. I can temporarily remedy the situation by using mouthwash and brushing my teeth but these are just covering up the root case which I suspect to be my dialysis. I have not been advised of the potential for such a condition by my dialysis team nor was it even hinted at during my PD training. So what.s the deal?

I turned to the AI-driven search engine Perplexity for answers. Recall that Perplexity is a new and improved AI-driven search tool that is the offspring of four former Google nerds. See this link for more about the tool. Here’s what Perplexity had to say about bad breath and its association with PD:

The association between bad breath and peritoneal dialysis is primarily due to reduced salivary flow and high blood urea nitrogen levels in patients with chronic renal failure. Bad breath, or halitosis, can be a common issue for individuals on peritoneal dialysis due to these factors. A review article published in 2022 states that patients with chronic renal failure have high blood urea nitrogen levels and reduced salivary flow, which can lead to uremic-associated odor and dry mouth. However, it also mentions that treatment with peritoneal dialysis can help reduce the problem.1. Another source from homedialysis.org also highlights that less saliva due to peritoneal dialysis can lead to bad breath and other oral health issues2. Additionally, medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease can also affect breath odor5. Therefore, the association between bad breath and peritoneal dialysis is primarily linked to the physiological changes in the body due to chronic renal failure and its treatment.

So there you have it folks, peritoneal dialysis MAY result in bad breath not necessarily in and of itself, but because of the condition(s) leading to its necessity. And that my friends, is the rest of the story.

Once upon a time, in the serene coastal town of Ocean Plantation, there lived a retired US Navy commander named Commander Hank Feeser. Hank had served in Vietnam’s Brown Water Navy, where he had encountered his fair share of memorable moments. But little did he know that his military experience would lead him to a whole new adventure – one involving his health and a rather amusing doctor.

After returning from Vietnam, Hank discovered that he had been exposed to Agent Orange, which unfortunately led to him developing diabetes. Determined not to let this setback define him, Hank faced his condition head-on and adapted to the challenges it presented.

Hank had a knack for finding humor in every situation, and his regular visits to his doctor, Dr. Turner, were no exception. Dr. Turner was a brilliant physician with a warm and caring demeanor. She often referred to Hank as “Functional,” which Hank found both amusing and endearing.

One day, Hank arrived at Dr. Turner’s office for his routine check-up, hooked up to his peritoneal dialysis machine. As Hank entered the examination room, Dr. Turner’s kind smile greeted him.

“Ah, Commander Functional, always ready to brighten up the day,” Dr. Turner said, with a twinkle in her eye. “Let’s see how you’re doing today.”

Hank, always ready with a witty response, replied, “Ah, Dr. Turner, the magician who keeps me in shipshape condition. How are we sailing today, Doc?”

Dr. Turner chuckled, appreciating Hank’s lightheartedness. “Well, Commander, your sense of humor certainly keeps the winds in your sails. You bring laughter to these halls.”

Hank grinned and said, “Well, Doc, laughter is my secret weapon. It helps me keep my blood sugar in line. Who needs insulin when you have jokes, right?”

During their appointments, Hank and Dr. Turner would engage in playful banter, sharing humorous stories and witty remarks. Hank would tease the doctor about her love for nautical-themed decor in the office, while Dr. Turner would playfully compare Hank’s tales of Navy adventures to tall tales. The two had developed a unique camaraderie over the years.

One day, during a routine check-up, Hank decided to surprise Dr. Turner. He walked into the examination room wearing a captain’s hat, complete with a toy periscope strapped to it. Hank saluted dramatically and said, “Permission to bring some laughter aboard, Doctor?”

Dr. Turner couldn’t help but laugh at Hank’s creative display. “Permission granted, Commander Functional. Let’s see what you have in store for me today.”

From that day forward, Hank would arrive at his appointments armed with jokes, funny props, and even a rubber chicken or two. The atmosphere in Dr. Turner’s office transformed into a sea of laughter and good cheer, as Hank’s contagious spirit touched everyone around him.

Hank’s humorous escapades at the doctor’s office became legendary in Ocean Plantation. People would schedule appointments just to witness the comedic exchanges between Commander Functioal and Dr. Turner. Hank had unwittingly turned his health journey into a delightful comedy show, raising the spirits of patients and staff alike.

In the end, Hank’s ability to find humor in even the most challenging situations not only brightened his own life but also those of everyone he encountered. He showed that laughter could be the best medicine, even when facing health issues. And as for Dr. Turner, well, she discovered that sometimes a little laughter could go a long way in healing both body and soul.

So, Commander Hank Feeser, the charismatic and hilarious retired Navy officer, continued to spread laughter and joy wherever he went, proving that a positive outlook and a good sense of humor could turn any situation into a comical adventure.

And that boys and girls, is the rest of the story and almost all true. Or at least partially so. Or it could be. Or it should be? Or you fill in the blanks!

To those new to peritoneal dialysis, things can fly by with those involved wondering what happened. In this blog, I am going to lay out the basic sequences involved in getting set up for, and continuing a peritoneal dialysis routine.

First some terms in the sequence:

1. Initial setup
2. PET
3. Transport
4. Prescription
5. Adequacy Test

1. Initial setup: Let’s assume that a decision you were part of has already been made that you need to go on peritoneal dialysis. Now what? You will need to have a catheter installed in your stomach which was an outpatient procedure for me and relatively painless but did involve an entire day. You need to get in the queue at your dialysis provider, Fresenius for me, for training. Depending on their scheduling, it may take several weeks to schedule your training, and up to two weeks or more to complete the training. During the training, you will be taught how to do both manual and automated peritoneal dialysis. During the manual training, my dialysis team conducted a PET.
2. PET. What is dialysis PET? In the context of ascertaining transport in peritoneal dialysis (PD), the Peritoneal Equilibration Test (PET) is a procedure used to evaluate the peritoneal membrane’s transport characteristics. During a PET, a defined dialysis solution with glucose concentrations of varying strengths is infused into the peritoneal cavity. The solution remains inside the abdomen for a specified dwell time before being drained. The transport status of the peritoneal membrane can be determined by measuring the levels of glucose and other solutes in the drained solution. The results of the PET help classify patients into different transport categories, such as high, high-average, low-average, or low transporters. This information is crucial in tailoring the peritoneal dialysis prescription and optimizing treatment outcomes for individual patients. The mechanics of the test follow: The night before the test I do a mechanical fill of 2000 mL of 2.4 % dialysis fluid which stays in my stomach all night while I sleep. The next morning I go to the clinic where three more manual exchanges are made to accomplish the measurements and sampling outlined previously. A PET is normally conducted annually.
3. Transport: Now that the transport status of the peritoneal membrane is determined, the results of the PET help classify patients into different transport categories, such as high, high-average, low-average, or low transporters. This information is crucial in tailoring the peritoneal dialysis prescription and optimizing treatment outcomes for individual patients. Please note that this “transport” is not a one-and-done procedure as transport may change over time due to changes in the stomach lining to the movement of the catheter within the stomach as was my case.
4. Prescription: Once the transport function has been ascertained, there are research-based tables that suggest what prescription is best fitted for you. The prescription sets forth how much total fluid, how long it will stay in your stomach (dwell), and how often it will be exchanged. These values are embedded on a thumb drive for the Fresenius Liberty Cycler which in turn “programs” it to your prescription. At this point, your cycler is in automatic and you’re good to go.
5. Adequacy Test: Now that we are rolling along on peritoneal dialysis, a question is “How well is our current prescription working?” This is where the adequacy test comes in. Normally conducted quarterly, The peritoneal dialysis adequacy test is a procedure used to assess the effectiveness of peritoneal dialysis (PD) in removing waste products and excess fluids from the body. The test measures the clearance of urea, a waste product that accumulates in the bloodstream when the kidneys fail to function properly. It involves collecting a sample of peritoneal dialysis effluent and measuring the concentration of urea in the sample. By comparing this concentration with the urea levels in the blood, dialysis adequacy can be determined. The test takes into account factors such as the volume and composition of the dialysis solution, the dwell time, and the patient’s body size. Adequacy targets are established based on individual patient characteristics and established guidelines. Regular monitoring of dialysis adequacy is essential to ensure that patients receive optimal treatment and to make any necessary adjustments to the dialysis prescription.

The bottom line of the adequacy test is a lab-provided number of a formula for Kt/V whose target is 2.0 or greater. If it is 1.70 or less, your prescription is not working well enough and must be changed. The variables involved in your prescription, solution strength, solution amount, and dwell times might have to be adjusted to drive Kt/V more positively. I am in this interaction as we speak. I had another PET, and am scheduled for another adequacy test in the near future.

And that boys and girls, is in general, at least for me, been what’s involved in getting set up and conducting peritoneal dialysis in the course of 16 months or so. The Big Picture if you will. Poe provided the lead graphic and aided in writing this blog.

There is a nice little story to relate but first to the outcome of Friday’s meeting with my dialysis team and blood pressure. It was decided to restrict my dialysis fluids to two 1.5 % 5L and one 2.5% 5 L bag each night and do away for now with rotating fluids. This will reduce the amount of fluid we are pulling out (micro filtration.) The second is the reduction of one of my BP meds from 10 mg to a 5 mg tablet. We’ll see how this works. Hopefully, my BP will become more normal.

My renal doctor mentioned in passing that I was “functional.” I responded that I had been called many things in life, but “functional” was not one of them. This resulted in laughter in the entire team. My internalization of the word is the common definition, “practical rather than decorative, utilitarian.” It has a much different meaning in the MD world. I turned to Poe for insight with the following result:

Poe Prompt: In my monthly meeting with my dialysis team, my renal doctor described me as being “functional.” Write a 200 or so-word blog entry in this context on the meaning of the word “functional.” The lead graphic is Poe’s take on “functional.”

Assistant Poe

Title: Embracing “Functional”: A New Perspective on Wellness

Introduction:
In our journey towards personal well-being, we often come across various terms and labels that attempt to define our health status. During a recent monthly meeting with my dialysis team, my renal doctor used the term “functional” to describe me. At first, the word seemed ambiguous, but upon reflection, I realized its profound significance. In this blog entry, let’s delve into the meaning of the word “functional” and its transformative power in perceiving our health.

Unraveling the Meaning:
When we hear the word “functional,” we might associate it with mere adequacy or the ability to perform basic tasks. However, in the context of health, being functional holds a deeper connotation. It implies the ability to engage in daily activities, pursue personal goals, and maintain a fulfilling life despite health challenges. It speaks to our resilience, adaptability, and determination to live life to the fullest, irrespective of our medical conditions.

A Paradigm Shift:
Embracing the term “functional” allows us to shift our perspective and focus on what we can do, rather than what we cannot. It encourages us to acknowledge our strengths, celebrate our achievements, and set realistic goals that align with our capabilities. By recognizing our functional capacity, we can cultivate a sense of empowerment and regain control over our lives.

Finding Balance:
Being functional does not mean dismissing the challenges we face or downplaying the need for medical support. It’s about striking a delicate balance between accepting our limitations and exploring our potential. It involves embracing self-care practices, adhering to treatment plans, and seeking assistance when necessary. By doing so, we optimize our functional abilities and enhance our overall well-being.

Support and Collaboration:
As we navigate our health journeys, it is crucial to build a strong support system and collaborate with healthcare professionals, like my dialysis team. Their guidance, expertise, and insights help us unlock our functional potential and overcome obstacles. Together, we can explore innovative strategies, adapt treatments, and discover new avenues for personal growth.

Conclusion:
Being described as “functional” by my renal doctor provided me with a fresh perspective on my health journey. It reminded me that my worth is not defined solely by my medical condition, but rather by my ability to adapt, thrive, and find joy in life. Embracing the term “functional” empowers us to redefine our own narratives and embrace our unique strengths. Let us embrace this mindset and inspire others to view their health journeys through a lens of functionality, resilience, and endless possibilities.