He's alive! I must extend my thanks to everyone who already read the print version and have had to keep their lips zipped for the past couple months. 

I'm also alive! My top surgery was last Tuesday, and I've spent the week recuperating at my friend's home while my aunt and uncle kindly brought me food, sometimes multiple times a day--I'm truly humbled by everyone's generosity. I'm a little apprehensive about the results. though?? My chest has been wrapped up in super tight padding and bandages all week, so I really have no idea what's going on down there, and I have no memory of meeting with the surgeon to discuss results after the procedure (I also have no memory of receiving the anesthesia, or of changing back into my clothes afterwards). I hope things went well, but if they didn't, I'd have no idea! Hoping my follow-up appointment today goes well, but regardless, I'll be heading back home this evening.