Speaking of techmas...

[toprob]

Speaking of 'merry techmas', for the last few days my implanted cardiac device (ICD) has been beeping every few hours. This is signaling end-of-life -- the battery, not mine.
Luckily I can get it turned off before Xmas, so I'm not the entertainment over xmas dinner....

[cowpatz]

Has done one change the battery? You might need a wireless charging one.

[toprob]

They need to change the device, but yeah, it would be great if they had something a bit more modern, or at least put a jack in my chest! (maybe 2-way, like an electric car -- I could rechange as usual, or attach the phone for a quick boost:)

The device normally has a life of 6 to 10 years, so I've had a good run at 13 years. Replacement is a bit of a procedure, so I will need to go into hospital at some stage, I guess they wouldn't consider just turning it off completely and leaving it there.

Back to the subject, I accidentally got to see a Noel Leeming ad today. I was impressed by the ethnic diversity. Not a blond in sight!

[deeknow]

my implanted cardiac device (ICD) has been beeping every few hours. This is signaling end-of-life -- the battery, not mine

Hahaha ... too funny .. glad its not you at EOL

[toprob]

I've split this out from the Marty's post, nice to see I remember how to use the Moderator tools....

Today Cardiology rang and said if I came in early tomorrow (7.30), they'd swap out the ICD. Hopefully a trouble-free procedure!
I've been really pleased with the Wellington health system, whatever it's called these days, they must have less 'customers' than Canterbury. I'm also pleased that I outlived the device, although the next 13 years might be a challenge.

[deeknow]

Great stuff Rob, and pleased to hear that in this case it is a "batteries ARE included" sorta deal

I've also had a decent health system experience up here in the Waikato lately, broke my femur falling off a scooter and landing badly two weeks ago, was in the Ortho ward at Waikato for 4 nights until stable enough to wobble home on crutches. The care I received was excellent, calm and swift ambulance crew, surgeons you could actually communicate with, polite and efficient nursing staff, and great support so far from ACC to get my life back on track. Sometimes our taxes are actually put to good use huh.