#Travel CPAP Machine

[tricaremedical]

🌙✨ Sleep Well Anywhere! ✨🌙

Traveling doesn’t mean sacrificing quality sleep. The ResMed AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP Machine is the world’s smallest CPAP—powerful, quiet, and FAA-compliant for air travel. 🧳✈️

✔ Ultra-portable & lightweight ✔ Auto-adjusting pressure for comfort ✔ Compatible with ResMed masks ✔ Perfect for travel, camping, or daily use

📦 Available now at Tricare Medical – your trusted partner in sleep therapy.

Contact Us: +1 615-230-3000 | directsales@tricaredme.com 🛒 Shop now and breathe easy, wherever life takes you:https://tricaredme.com/products/resmed-airmini-autoset-travel-cpap-machine

[medequipshop]

Sleep Better with ResMed CPAP Machines: The Key to Restorative Sleep 💤💨

For individuals dealing with sleep apnea, CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy can be a game-changer. Among the top brands offering reliable and innovative solutions is ResMed. Their CPAP machine ResMed is designed to help users enjoy better sleep quality, reduce fatigue, and improve overall health. Let’s explore why ResMed CPAP machines are so highly regarded and how they can enhance your sleep experience.

Why Choose a ResMed CPAP Machine? 🤔

ResMed is one of the leading brands in the sleep apnea treatment industry, known for its cutting-edge technology and user-friendly features. Here’s why people trust ResMed for their sleep therapy needs:

Advanced Auto-Adjusting Technology: ResMed CPAP machines automatically adjust air pressure based on your breathing patterns, ensuring optimal comfort throughout the night.

Whisper-Quiet Operation: Unlike traditional CPAP machines that can be noisy, ResMed devices operate quietly, creating a peaceful sleep environment for you and your partner.

Intuitive Design: With easy-to-use controls and simple setup processes, ResMed devices are designed for convenience and efficiency.

App Connectivity: ResMed machines are compatible with the MyAir app, which helps users monitor their therapy progress and make necessary adjustments.

By using a ResMed CPAP machine, you can wake up feeling refreshed and energized, free from the interruptions caused by sleep apnea.

Perfect for Travel: The ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP Machine ✈️

For frequent travelers, maintaining your sleep therapy routine can be a challenge. That’s where the ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP machine comes in. This compact, portable CPAP device is specifically designed for those who need their therapy on the go.

Key features of the ResMed AirMini include:

Portable and Compact: Small enough to fit in a carry-on bag, making it easy to take on trips.

All-in-One Convenience: The AirMini includes everything you need, such as a mask and tubing, making it a hassle-free travel companion.

Quiet Operation: Despite its size, the AirMini operates quietly, allowing for a peaceful night’s sleep no matter where you are.

Smartphone App Integration: Like other ResMed devices, the AirMini can connect to the MyAir app for tracking and adjusting your therapy.

With the ResMed AirMini, you don’t have to compromise on your sleep therapy while traveling. It ensures that you get the same quality treatment as at home, so you wake up feeling rejuvenated no matter where you are.

Maximize Your CPAP Therapy 🛌

To get the most out of your CPAP therapy, here are a few tips:

Use Your CPAP Every Night: Consistency is key to seeing the full benefits of CPAP therapy.

Choose the Right Mask: Comfort is essential, so make sure you find a mask that fits your face and your breathing style.

Regular Maintenance: Clean your CPAP machine and mask regularly to ensure proper functioning and hygiene.

Track Your Progress: Use the MyAir app to monitor your therapy and stay on track.

Ready to Sleep Better? 🌙

If you’re ready to improve your sleep quality and wake up feeling refreshed, a ResMed CPAP machine may be just what you need. Whether you’re looking for an advanced home device or a travel-friendly option, ResMed has you covered. To explore the full range of ResMed CPAP products, navigate this site and find the perfect machine for your needs.

Start your journey to better sleep today! 💤

[minitravelcpap]

Travel CPAP Devices Available Now at Mini Travel CPAP

Looking for a compact solution for your sleep apnea needs? Check out the Transcend Mini Travel CPAP Machine! Designed for portability without sacrificing performance, it offers comfortable therapy wherever you go. With its small size and quiet operation, you can enjoy restful sleep even while traveling. Say goodbye to bulky equipment and hello to convenience with the Transcend Mini Travel CPAP.

[fudanshiluigi]

i dreamt about the neopets seasonal attack pea wearing a coquette bow from the stupid tiktok trend. also gale was there for some fucking reason

[comfysleepnsw]

Sleep Better Anywhere with BMC M1 Mini Travel AutoPAP System

If you’re someone who struggles with sleep apnoea and is always on the move, finding a reliable and compact solution is key. At Comfy Sleep, we understand how vital restful sleep is, whether you're at home or travelling. That’s why we proudly offer the BMC M1 Mini Travel AutoPAP System – a game changer in portable CPAP therapy.

Designed for comfort, efficiency, and portability, the BMC M1 Mini Travel AutoPAP System is an ultra-lightweight device that fits neatly into your luggage without adding bulk. With Bluetooth connectivity and app-based control, you can easily monitor and adjust your therapy settings on the go.

Unlike many travel CPAP devices, the M1 Mini does not compromise on features. It boasts auto-adjusting pressure settings, advanced ramp features, and whisper-quiet operation. This means you can enjoy uninterrupted sleep without disturbing your partner or fellow travellers.

At Comfy Sleep, we also stock a full range of BMC masks and accessories to pair seamlessly with your AutoPAP system. Whether you're a side sleeper, back sleeper, or somewhere in between, we have options that suit your comfort and therapy needs.

Beyond travel, we also offer comprehensive solutions for your home sleep therapy setup, including BMC G3 Series A20 AutoPAP System, BMC G3 Series C20 CPAP System, and BMC G3 Series BiPAP System. These systems provide advanced features for a customisable and clinically effective sleep therapy experience.

Our team at Comfy Sleep is committed to helping Australians improve their sleep quality. We provide expert advice, responsive customer service, and a user-friendly online shopping experience at comfysleep.com.au.

If you’re ready to take your sleep therapy with you, explore the BMC M1 Mini Travel AutoPAP System today and experience the freedom of quality sleep, wherever you go.

[cpaprx]

What makes the AirMini AutoSet CPAP the best choice for travelers with sleep apnea? In our latest blog, we break down 7 reasons this compact travel CPAP is a must-have—from portability and performance to smart add-ons like humidifiers and backpacks. Whether you're new to CPAP or ready to upgrade, this one’s worth checking out!

[jerryjhon]

Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine

29% quieter than the popular Z1 Auto Travel, the Human Design Medical Z2 Auto CPAP Machine packs the same power of a standard at-home machine while fitting into the palm of your hand. Meeting all your traveling needs, the Z2 Auto is FAA compliant and features waterless humidification, making it perfect for on-the-go lifestyles.

The HDM Z2 Auto is Ideal For:

Light Sleepers

Avid Travelers

Devoted Campers

If You Are Seeking App Integration Technology

What’s Included:

Z2 Auto CPAP Machine

Qtube In-line CPAP Muffler Kit

4 Foot Slim Style Z1/Z2 Tube

Heat Moisture Exchange Unit

Tube Adapter for Z1/Z2 Machines

2 Disposable Filters for Z1/Z2 Machines

USB Cable

AC Power Supply

User Manual

Getting Started Guide

Specifications

Sound Level: 26 dBA

Machine Dimensions: 6.48 in L x 3.3 in W x 2.02 in H

Machine Weight: 0.65

Machine Warranty: 2 Years

Compatibility: The Z2 Auto is compatible with all the accessories designed for the Z1 Auto.

Voltage Requirements:

Voltage Requirements: 100–240V, 50–60Hz

Typical Power Consumption: 20W (30VA)

Maximum Power Consumption: 35W (70VA)

Power Cord Length: 10 feet

Default Machine Settings: 4-20cm H2O

Humidification Type: N/A

Exhalation Relief: Yes

Ramp Mode: Yes

Max Altitude: 8000

DC Capable: Yes

Battery Option: Yes

Compliance Data: Yes

Advanced Data: Yes

Phone/Web App Available: Yes

Auto Altitude Adjustment: Yes

Auto Start: Yes

Auto Stop: Yes

Key Features:

Auto-Adjusting Pressure: The Z2 Auto adapts to your breathing patterns by automatically adjusting pressure levels, ensuring optimal therapy throughout the night.

Z-Breathe™ Technology: This proprietary algorithm minimizes pressure swings during inhalation and exhalation, providing a more comfortable breathing experience.

Waterless Humidification: Utilizing a Heat Moisture Exchanger (HME), the Z2 Auto offers humidification without the need for a traditional water-based humidifier, reducing bulk and simplifying travel.

Optional Integrated Battery: For off-grid use, the Z2 Auto is compatible with the PowerShell® and its Extended Life Battery, providing a full night of therapy on a single charge.

Auto Start/Stop Feature: Therapy begins automatically when you put on your mask and starts breathing, and stops shortly after the mask is removed or a large leak is detected.

Ramp Feature: Allows you to start therapy at a lower pressure, gradually increasing to the prescribed level, facilitating a more comfortable transition to sleep.

Bluetooth Connectivity: The free Nitelog™ mobile app for iOS and Android enables you to track and share your sleep data conveniently.

Benefits:

Portability: Its ultra-small size and lightweight design make the Z2 Auto an excellent choice for travelers.

Compatibility: The device works with any standard CPAP mask and tubing, allowing you to use your preferred equipment without proprietary accessories.

Quiet Operation: The Z2 Auto operates quietly, including a QLite® inline muffler to further reduce noise, ensuring minimal disturbance during sleep.

FAA Compliance: Approved for in-flight use, making it suitable for air travel.

[medequipshop01]

Breathe Better, Sleep Better: Exploring the Benefits of Modern CPAP Machines 🌙💤

For individuals dealing with sleep apnea, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are life-changing. They improve sleep quality, reduce health risks, and enhance overall well-being. Among the cutting-edge options available today, the ResMed AirSense 11 stands out for its innovative features and user-friendly design. Whether you’re at home or on the go, CPAP machines have revolutionized the way we manage sleep apnea, making restful nights accessible to everyone.

Let’s dive into the benefits of CPAP therapy, the features of modern devices, and tips for choosing the best machine for your needs.

🌟 Why CPAP Machines Are Essential for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to poor-quality rest and various health issues. CPAP machines address this by keeping airways open, ensuring uninterrupted breathing throughout the night.

1. Improved Sleep Quality 🛌

By preventing interruptions in breathing, CPAP machines help you achieve deep, restorative sleep, leaving you refreshed and energized in the morning.

2. Better Health Outcomes 💖

Untreated sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke. CPAP therapy reduces these risks by ensuring consistent oxygen flow during sleep.

3. Enhanced Daytime Focus and Productivity 🚀

With better sleep, you’ll experience improved concentration, reduced fatigue, and increased productivity in your daily life.

💡 What Makes the ResMed AirSense 11 a Game-Changer?

The ResMed AirSense 11 is designed with both comfort and efficiency in mind, making it one of the top choices for sleep apnea treatment. Here’s what sets it apart:

1. Smart Features for Personalized Therapy

The AirSense 11 uses advanced algorithms to tailor therapy settings to your specific needs, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness.

2. Built-In Humidifier for Added Comfort 💧

Dry air can irritate your airways, but the integrated humidifier in the AirSense 11 prevents this by adding moisture to the airflow.

3. User-Friendly Touchscreen Interface 📱

Navigating the settings is a breeze with the intuitive touchscreen, making it easy for anyone to operate the device.

4. Compact and Portable Design 👜

Despite its advanced features, the AirSense 11 is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for both home use and travel.

🛫 Travel-Friendly CPAP Machines: Your On-the-Go Solution

For frequent travelers, a CPAP machine with portability and convenience is a must-have. That’s where options like the travel CPAP machine with a battery come into play.

1. Compact Size and Lightweight Design

Travel CPAP machines are designed to fit easily into your carry-on or luggage, ensuring you can continue therapy wherever you go.

2. Built-In or External Battery Options 🔋

These machines often come with long-lasting batteries, allowing you to use them during flights or in locations without power access.

3. Quiet Operation for Peaceful Nights

Despite their smaller size, travel CPAP machines are designed to operate quietly, so you (and your travel companions) can enjoy restful sleep.

4. FAA Approval for Air Travel ✈️

Many travel CPAP machines are FAA-approved, making them safe and hassle-free to use on flights.

📘 How to Choose the Right CPAP Machine

When selecting a CPAP machine, it’s important to consider your unique needs and lifestyle. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Comfort Features: Look for machines with adjustable pressure settings, heated humidifiers, and noise-reduction technology.

Portability: If you travel often, a lightweight, battery-powered model is essential.

Ease of Use: Choose a machine with a user-friendly interface and straightforward maintenance requirements.

Data Tracking: Many modern CPAP machines include apps or built-in displays to track your therapy progress.

🌈 The Benefits of Consistent CPAP Therapy

Regular use of a CPAP machine can transform your life, offering:

Better overall health

Reduced risk of sleep apnea complications

Increased energy levels

Improved quality of life for both you and your loved ones

With the right device, CPAP therapy becomes an easy, effective part of your daily routine.

🔑 Find Your Perfect CPAP Solution Today

Managing sleep apnea doesn’t have to be a hassle. Modern CPAP machines are designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, offering comfort, portability, and cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re at home or on the go, there’s a CPAP machine to meet your needs.

Ready to explore the best options? Navigate this site for detailed information, expert recommendations, and a wide range of CPAP devices to help you sleep better and live healthier.

Conclusion

Investing in the right CPAP machine can dramatically improve your sleep and overall quality of life. From the advanced features of the ResMed AirSense 11 to travel-friendly solutions with batteries, there’s a perfect option for everyone. Start your journey to better sleep today, and wake up to a brighter, healthier future! 🌙✨

[wheeloffortune-design]

I think an important skill to develop is traveling alone. Or just doing things alone.

I often go to events or conventions in neighboring cities (neighboring in a canadian way, meaning 3+ hours of travel) and most of the time I do it alone. I take the car, bus, train, with my clothes and my books and my art and my cpap machine and always a book that I won't read, and I do the Event, sometimes I see friends, meet colleagues.

But there are many hours where I find myself in a new city, and I learned to make myself visit new places, go to cafés with a notebook or sketchbook, visit museums, get a pint in interesting pubs, eat yummy food at cool restaurants, visit the tourists traps. Take selfies and send them to mom.

And at night, I go back to the hotel room and I make myself a cup of tea (because I brought teabags from home), watch local tv, try to read the book.

Work made me travel to Ottawa, so yesterday I saw a friend but after I ate delicious fish and chips at an irish pub, today I went to a gaming pub and beat a childhood videogame for the first time, tomorrow I'll be flying in a WW2 biplane.

If I had to wait for the stars to align and for someone to do things with me, I wouldn't do anything.

So I guess as long as I can grab my little suitcase, my backpack and my cpap machine, I'll keep going to places. Qui m'aime, me suive.

[sirfrogsworth]

Last week was crazy.

I honestly can't believe all of it happened in the span of a week. Well, I guess it was more like 10 days. But it was another... Alot.

It all started when I got my disability denial letter. I couldn't wait until I got into the house so I opened the envelope as I walked back from the mailbox. Once I saw the bad part I had an instant panic attack in my driveway.

I ran inside...

Okay, that isn't true.

I walked very quickly inside...

Nope, still not true.

Okay, I walked at my personal top speed which is probably still slow for most people... but the point I'm trying to make is that I was attempting to hurry despite only saving myself about 3 seconds of travel time.

But the hurrying made me feel better, okay?

Out of breath from my geriatric-style powerwalking, I called my lawyer's office immediately. And... he is on vacation. Won't be back until the next Thursday. I spent the entire weekend going through every panic state a body can feel. I go from angry to depressed to anxious to panicked to angry (again) to scared to more scared to extra more scared. Visions of homelessness danced in my head.

I can't sleep for over a day because my brain won't shut off. Finally my body gives out and I fall asleep on the couch watching random YouTube videos. But falling asleep on the couch is bad because I'm not hooked up to my CPAP machine. Then I finally do hook up my CPAP and my damned mask breaks. Thankfully it has happened before and I have a cool hot glue and duct tape solution. But it is hard to manage hot glue and tape when you haven't slept in days and your eyes will barely stay open. So a few burned fingers later, I am sleeping comfortably in my janky duct tape-laden CPAP mask.

Monday rolls around and I decide to go into problem solving mode. Problem solving is my superpower, so I was going to lean into that in an effort to reduce my anxiety. The denial letter said they had no records from before I was 22, so I put on my detective hat and began the hunt to prove I was sick before 2004. My aunt helped me dig through my mom's document drawer. I distinctly remember an essay I wrote to the disability people back when I first got sick. It was part of the paperwork they had me submit. It was a first hand account of my symptoms back in 2001. It also had an essay from my dad talking about how sick I was. I felt like if I could find that, the records surrounding it would all be related and from the same time period.

We go through the entire drawer and only find a few things that might be helpful. Then I realized my mom had a *second* drawer full of documents and my aunt was blocking it. So we start going through that and find a folder labeled "Ben's Disability Stuff." I would have never kept any of that stuff but my mom kept *everything* and it was all in chronological order.

She is still looking out for me.

And she may have kept me from being homeless.

We find the essay and records of my ECT treatments and the names of doctors and all kinds of evidence of my medical woes before 2004. And even if they won't accept it as direct evidence, I can use these documents to show doctors I was their patient. And my primary care doctor said he would be willing to talk to those past doctors to help me convince them to write a letter on my behalf. All they really have to say is they treated me for severe depression and fatigue. And because my mom kept a list of my prescriptions and my ECT treatments, I'm hoping that will be enough to convince them even if they don't remember treating me.

Wednesday I had my monthly checkup. And I got to peek at my main doctor's records from before 2004. It's all handwritten notes and a little hard to read (bad doctor handwriting is the most accurate stereotype in existence). But it clearly says I had depression and was undergoing ECT treatments. It even mentions one of the doctors I want to write me a letter. It's not a lot, but it is first hand, direct medical evidence from that time period. I think it will be very compelling to whoever reviews my case.

I also talked to the nurses/assistants in the office about copying my entire chart, and I thought we were on the same page, but as you will see later... we were not on the same page.

I exit the building and remember how far away I had parked. And once again I forgot to use my cane—even though I keep a spare in the car. The main lot was full and the disabled parking was occupied, so I had to park in the secondary lot. My legs were holding up so far, but it was already a lot of walking for me. Very slow walking.

His office is in the same complex as the hospital. Which is my next stop. It's the same hospital that I have been going to all of my life. And the hospital where both of my parents died.

But I need vintage medical records and that is where they keep them.

Or so I thought.

I drive from the medical office parking lot to the hospital parking lot and only the spots farthest away are empty. And because of goddamn global warming, it is 90 fucking degrees in late September. I park, lock my car, grab my man purse, and start hoofing it to the hospital entrance. I'm so nervous about getting these records that I forgot my damn cane again.

My thoughts are basically, "What if they only keep 7 years of records like everyone else? What if the records from Christian Northwest aren't kept with the records from Christian Northeast? (Christian NW doesn't exist anymore.) What if they won't send them to my lawyer? What if it costs a thousand bucks? What if, what if, what if..."

I get to the front desk and ask the lady where the records department is. She gives me directions that my brain is only capable of half paying attention to. Then I realized I left the records release form from my lawyer in the car. So I walk another half mile in the heat to my car without my cane. And initially, my thought was, "Well, at least I can grab my cane once I get the form." But by the time I got to my car my thought was, "AHHHHHHHHH THAT WAS A LONG FUCKING WALK. KILL ME!"

And so I forgot my cane.

Again.

I get back to the lobby and wave at the lady who gave me directions. I pretend like I remembered and confidently walk in the direction I recall her pointing to. I found the elevator. Thankfully this particular elevator only goes two places. Which seems like a waste of an elevator, but... whatever. I get off on the second floor and am met with a big sign with all the departments and little arrows next to them.

(I'm sure you knew what I was talking about but I'm trying to break up this wall of text with images because I am a professional blogger person.)

I see "Medical Records" and a leftward arrow. I used my keen detective skills to surmise I should probably veer left.

I find myself at the beginning of the world's longest hallway.

Without my cane.

And it is flooded with sterile florescent light and the walls are adorned with the world's most inoffensive art.

Here is a painting of a plant. Here is a painting of a bird. Here is a painting of a bird sitting on a plant. Wait, is that a... WATERFALL??

Suddenly Indiana Jones' voice shouts in my thoughts...

So, if you had to guess, do you think the records department was...

A.) near the beginning of the hallway? B.) in the middle of the hallway? C.) beyond the world's longest hallway in the world's second longest hallway?

As I enter the world's second longest hallway, I notice the art is repeating itself. I've seen that bird sitting on a plant before. I worried I was going in circles, but it turns out they probably just bought the inoffensive art in bulk and weren't concerned about repeats. I get about halfway down the second longest hallway and see a big sign sticking out... "MEDICAL RECORDS."

Note to God: The real world needs a fast travel mode.

I was a big sweaty mess and my legs were like jello. I lumber through the door and find a young woman scrolling through her phone and probably wishing she was anywhere else. She was behind a huge partition with a plexiglass divider—probably still there from COVID days.

I mean, it's still COVID days. But no one is acting like it so I am just pretending it is all over like everyone else seems to.

She notices an out-of-breath Hagrid towering over her and apathetically inquires, "Can I help you?"

I hold up a finger as I try to gain my composure and figure out exactly what I want to say. I usually rehearse this kind of thing beforehand but with all of the anxious thoughts spiraling through my brain, I totally forgot to do that.

"I need to ask questions about records." "What kind of questions?" "Well, how long are the records?" "I'm sorry?" "What year do they start?" "What year do you need?"

I'm suddenly realizing why I rehearse these things. So I take a moment and breathe deeply. I form the proper question in my mind.

"How far back do you keep medical records?" "30 years."

I shoot my hands up like I just scored a touchdown and say, "OH THANK GOD."

She is very confused.

"30 years, oh my god. 30 years just saved my life."

She is still very confused.

"And do you have records from Christian Northwest?" "Yes, we have everything from all Christian hospitals."

I try to give her a brief explanation of my situation and she cuts me off. "Fill out this form."

I look at the clipboard and it is a release form.

Do you remember way back when I walked an extra mile to and from the car to get a release form that my lawyer prepared? Well, turns out they have their own version of that and I walked all that way for nothing.

I finish the form and hand it to the bored, indifferent front desk lady. She tells me someone will be out in a moment. So I sit in the uncomfortable waiting chairs and try to rest a bit. A much tinier young woman walks to the front desk partition thingie and calls out my name. But due to her diminutive stature, she is completely obscured by a pillar and I have no idea where the voice is coming from. We do this little awkward dance on either side of the pillar, attempting to see each other, and finally we both end up on the same side. She starts looking over my form and seemed a little annoyed that I left a section blank. I wasn't sure what kind of records I needed and there was no box that said "everything everywhere all at once."

What I really wanted was any document with my name on it from the beginning of time.

But I was worried about asking for too much labor from this person so I started negotiating for some reason.

I was like, "Well, like, I really need like anything you have from before like 2004. And then maybe, like, some general records after 2004. Like, the pre-2004 records are super important. But, like, I also need to show I was sick all my adult life. So if there are like, summary records? Or, like, something?"

I couldn't stop saying like. I was turning into a Kardashian. Again, some rehearsal was probably warranted.

"I just don't want to be a burden and make you dig up all of my records. I mostly need my ECT records from 2001."

"What is ECT?"

"Shock therapy. It's for depression. I just need to show I was really sick before the age of 22."

"And who is this guy on the form?"

*ramble mode engaged*

"Oh, that is my disability attorney. You see, I'm trying to get a special kind of disability, but I need to prove I was sick before the age of 22. So anything like that before 2004 would be very helpful. But like, if you have less detailed records after 2004 that is good too. Because I may need to prove I've been sick my entire adult life."

*continued rambling until I notice she stopped paying attention*

She did not need to know all of this. And I was not answering the questions she needed answered. I was nervous and babbling and oversharing and I couldn't snap out of it. And I was really concerned if I asked for too much, she was going to be upset. But then she told me all of the records were in a warehouse and she would not actually be finding them for me. She just places an "order" for them. So this weird negotiation thing I was doing to keep her from being annoyed at me was pointless.

And I also realized... this is super important.

I yell at myself, "Ask for everything, stupid! Quit trying to get halfassed records because you're worried about inconveniencing someone."

Finally I just say, "I want every medical record you have from before I was 22 until now."

And she was like, "Sure."

Well... that was easy.

I thanked the tiny lady and the bored lady and exited back into the second longest hallway. My adrenaline was surging. I kept yelling, "30 YEARS!!" in my brain. I had to tell someone this amazing news. I had to tell them right that second or I might burst. So I grab my phone from my man purse and dial Katrina.

The thing is, I only call Katrina when something really bad happens. People don't make phone calls anymore. People text! So when she picked up the phone she answered with a very worried tone. As if somehow a third parent of mine died or something.

"THIRTY YEARS!!!!" "WHAT IS HAPPENING??" "They keep records for 30 years!" "OHHHHHHHHHH!!! That's amazing!"

She probably didn't hop for joy in real life, but in my mind I like to pretend she did. I start explaining everything that just happened and how they most likely have my ECT records and then I realize I am in the middle of the world's second longest hallway and I don't remember which direction leads back to the world's longest hallway. And because I am having unusual and extraordinarily good luck, a medical worker was walking by right at that moment.

"Which way back to the elevator?" "This way!" "Oh great! Thank you!" "Or that way. There are two elevators."

There is that normal luck I recognize.

I can feel the universe realigning itself. But that is okay, because...

THIRTY YEARS, BABY!

I talk to Katrina as I traverse the two longest hallways. Thankfully I was going in the correct direction and found the proper elevator. After a nice chat about various things including problematic 80s movies, we hung up and I decided to treat myself to a hospital cafeteria chicken quesadilla. They are surprisingly delicious and I ate them every single day while my dad was in hospice. Those quesadillas were a single bright spot during one of the hardest times of my life.

So I walk up to the grillmaster and look at the menu.

"Wait, where is the quesadilla?" "We stopped making those two weeks ago."

Universal realignment completed. Luck has returned to its original state.

A male nurse in front of me commiserated. "Yeah, man. I miss them too."

I walked back out to my car both happy and depressed. An odd combination of conflicted feelings. But my day was not over yet. I needed vaccines and groceries. Naturally, I went to the grocery store with the CVS. I got my dad his last booster there, so I was confident they could take care of me. I grab a shopping cart and pick up a few things on the way to the pharmacy. I get in line at the little vaccine check-in spot. The woman in front of me is getting her booster as well. Otherwise, the pharmacy is empty and the three employees are just scrolling through their phones.

After the previous booster seeker was taken care of, I tell the woman I need a booster and a flu vaccine.

"I can give the flu shot now and set an appointment for the booster." "You never required an appointment before." "We just started a few weeks ago." "Can I make an appointment for, like, now?" "No, sorry." "Do you have the booster in stock?" "Yes." "Do you have someone here qualified to give the booster?" "Yes." "Do you have any other appointments right now?" "No."

I tried very hard to keep my composure and remain polite.

"I am disabled. It is very hard for me to get out of the house. Returning another day would be very difficult. Can you please make an exception?"

"I can get you in tomorrow."

I probably should have asked for a manager at this point. But I had no energy for confrontation. She started preparing for me to get the flu shot, but I told her I was going somewhere else. My happy news was quickly being soured by weird rules that made no sense.

But I did see a cool robot.

I got my groceries and loaded them into my car. Some were frozen items so I made sure to turn the A/C on full blast. I called another pharmacy. It was the one run by the Jamaican family who came out to the house to give my parents boosters during the height of COVID. I asked if they could do walk-in vaccinations without an appointment. And in that beautiful accent, they replied, "Sure, come on by. We'll take care of you."

Their shop is in Ferguson. Which I'm sure the news has convinced people is a constant warzone or something. But the main street, West Florrisant, is actually really neat in spots. A lot of small businesses catering to the Black community. There was a soul food place and an African hair braiding place and a Taco Bell. Okay, it wasn't all Black-themed shops, but the pharmacy was directly next to the "Wumzy African Attire" tailoring shop that was combined with the party planning store.

And in the back was an African beauty supply depot.

Three shops in one! Just a very efficient use of space.

And looking through the window of the tailoring shop was like a feast of colors for the eyes. I don't know how they get fabric so bright and colorful. Really beautiful patterns too. I tried not to look like a creep while staring inside so I just walked reeeeeally slow toward the pharmacy entrance.

I just wish people knew that side of Ferguson. It's a beautiful community that was really dragged through the mud by the national media.

I digress.

I walked into the pharmacy and it was long and skinny. They had a few shelves with over-the-counter health products. But the main area was pretty empty. I guess they want to make sure they can accommodate long lines without people having to wait outside. But their working area seemed really cramped. There were some awards on the wall and news articles. Apparently, they are very involved with vaccinating the local refugee community. Something you won't see at pointless appointment-having CVS. I just felt like I was in the right place even if my frozen items were thawing and my legs were buckling from constantly forgetting my cane in the car.

The shop was run by the pharmacist and matriarch. Her son took my information. He looked about 18 and was a bit shy—but very kind and helpful. He directed me to this little partition they set up for vaccinations and they had a liquor bottle full of hand sanitizer. The label had a big "DO NOT DRINK" warning. I found a picture of the exact one on Google.

I washed my hands and rolled up my sleeve. The pharmacist greeted me with my shots prepared. Some people have a sort of magic touch when it comes to giving shots. I'm not sure if it is a special technique or just lots of experience, but aside from a little pressure, I didn't even feel the needles going in. And my arm was only mildly sore despite the double shots.

I really wanted to thank her for sending someone to vaccinate my parents when no one else would. But I was really tired and chickened out. So I just thanked her and drove home.

I unloaded my groceries and collapsed on the couch. I could barely move at that point. Everything hurt.

But... 30 years.

I was feeling good the next day despite everything. My body hurt, but my brain was contented from my success. But there was more to do and everything was trending downhill. I called those doctors mentioned in my personal medical records. I knew it was a long shot, but I asked if they kept records from 2001. They did not. However, I thought the psychiatrist who did my ECT was dead. And it turns out he is just old-as-heck and still practicing. So even though he doesn't have records and probably doesn't remember me, I am hopeful he will write me a letter.

My other psychiatrist from back then is also still practicing. No records there either.

So far my phone anxiety wasn't getting the better of me. But I still had more calls to make and I could feel my brain starting to get melty.

My pocket knife doesn't open correctly and I couldn't get anyone to email me back from SpyderCo. So I called their office in Colorado and tried to get someone to talk to me. I got bounced to three different people and finally a guy told me that model is just hard to open. So that was pointless.

Melt. Melt. Melt.

And finally, I had to call the dreaded CPAP supply place.

It did not go well. At all.

You can read more about it at that link, but the short version is I got angrily sighed at for asking reasonable questions about what the hell "chart notes" are. And the lady refused to answer those questions for no reason I can fathom. She eventually brought me to tears and got angry at me for doing so. And it turned out the call was pointless as well.

Oh, and my lawyer was sick. Remember him? Vacation guy? Who skipped town at the exact moment I got my disability denial letter? Yeah, I had been waiting for 7 grueling, anxiety-filled days to speak with him and he gets sick the day he returns.

Brain is melty goo.

Hey, Universe! I think you are overcorrecting with that luck realignment. I appreciate the 30 years of records thing, but can you let me enjoy it a little?

Friday arrives and I still have calls to make. The CPAP lady really messed up my brain and so just dialing the numbers was freaking me out. But I decided to start with the worst first. I called the CPAP lady and she finally had her precious "chart notes" and put my order through. She was cheerful and helpful and I was confused but thankful.

I thought maybe things were looking up in my phone call adventures.

My next call was to my primary care doctor's office.

One thing you need to know about my doctor is he is a bit of a... hot mess. A very smart, capable doctor. He knows his stuff. I suspect he has an eidetic memory due to his instant recall of medication names and doses and things that happened 8 years ago and detailed descriptions of medical conditions he only heard about in school 40 years ago. Aside from that, he is kind and compassionate and he has my back no matter what.

But he is technologically stuck in the 80s. His personal life is a roller coaster of drama. He once hired his girlfriend of 2 months to work at the office and his regular staff secretly whispered "She's so awful" behind his back. (They broke up soon after.) He is disorganized and constantly running late. And he takes on tons of frustrating patients because they have nowhere else to go. I admire him for treating so many poor elderly folks without any family to take care of them, but you can tell it is extremely challenging at times and a lot of that labor is delegated to his staff.

His office manager is probably the only person on the planet who can tolerate him being a hot mess.

Unfortunately, she is also a hot mess in completely different ways.

She tries to speedrun through everything. It's probably because she has a million things to do and is trying to fit 12 hours of work into an 8 hour workday. I try to be sympathetic and understanding of that. But one of her methods for speeding things along is attempting to use her psychic powers. You will start telling her what you need and she will do this thing where she cuts you off and tries to predict said need.

"I need a prescription for..." "Your thyroid meds are due, right? I'll send it over to the pharmacy." "...insulin. But I have a question about..." "So thyroid and insulin? No problem. I'll send it over." "...increasing my dosage." "Wait, what's yer question, hon?" "Was it 50 units..." "No, it's says 100. Okay? I'll send it over. Take care." "...twice per day or 100 units once in the morning?"

Often her predictions are so bad that it actually takes a lot more time to correct her than it would if she had just let you finish speaking. And this is especially problematic for me because I rehearse everything I need to say and she constantly interrupts and so I have to end up improvising new things to say that I never accounted for. And I'm already anxious and not thinking clearly so I do a poor job of explaining my needs and it just ends up in disaster.

So I have a complicated situation. I need my entire written chart copied and sent to my lawyer. I know it is a lot of work for the office staff. They probably have to copy several hundred pages. But this is probably the most important evidence in my disability case. And my lawyer has already volunteered to pay the several hundred dollars it will cost. It's worth it because if my case goes well, I could get years of back pay.

I call and get the young woman whom I really like on his staff. She is very quiet and unassuming but secretly the star of the office. Like a ninja of competence. If you really need something done properly without mistakes, she is the best one to go to. But her job does not include handling the records, so she transfers me to the office nurse. The office nurse does not process new information well. You often have to explain things several times. And if she gives up trying to understand, she hands you off to the office manager.

The Final Boss, if you will. I was really hoping I could avoid that.

"Okay, so my lawyer needs all of my written records..."

"He needs to fax a form saying what he needs, okay honey?"

"He already faxed a release form asking for records and I brought in a new copy yesterday with all of his mailing information..."

"He didn't fax anything. He needs to tell us what he needs. I'm not seeing any form. Just tell him to call me."

"He is out sick today and he already faxed the form and I brought a second one just in case. I signed it and dated it and I watched Competence Ninja put it in my chart. It asks for everything..."

"Okay, I see it here. This doesn't look right. He needs to tell us what he needs us to send him."

"It says in the letter, 'to release any medical information, including medical records, written letters, treatment reports, testing results, or similar information.' Should it say something different?"

"I've been doing this 20 years and I've never seen anything like this. He needs to be more specific. I ain't sending him all that, hon."

"So, this is for my disability case. I already talked to the nurse about this. And I know it is a lot, but the doctor's records are the only direct evidence that I've been sick since 2001."

"So you just need something from 2001? Okay, the lawyer needs to fax something saying that."

"I need the entire handwritten chart copied and sent to the lawyer. We need a full record of my illness because..."

"This is ridiculous. You're lawyer is fucking lazy. I've never seen anything like this. And I'm worried he is not going to represent your interests."

"This is not a normal disability claim. If you'd allow me to explain I think you'd understand why I need..."

"Disability should already have all this. We shouldn't need to send this. This is fucking ridiculous and you need a new lawyer. You're going to lose your case with his lazy ass."

"This isn't normal disability. I need to prove that I've been sick for a long time and..."

"This is going to cost a fortune, you know? We charge 50 cents per page. You're going to be out hundreds of dollars."

"Okay, but I will be out thousands of dollars if I don't get this copied."

"Fuck it. I am going to copy this ONCE. No more after this. UNDERSTOOD?"

And... she hung up on me.

My heart was beating out of my chest with panic and my eyes were blurry with tears. And in that moment, I thought I had done something wrong. My doctor gave me his personal mobile number so I call him up with tears apparent in my voice. I explain what just happened and that I was really sorry and that I didn't mean to upset her. He told me she is "just like that sometimes" and I shouldn't take it to heart. They have a very serious deadline for something due that day and she was very upset and I was collateral damage. I asked him to apologize for me and he said there was no need. He said we'd work it all out on Monday when this deadline wasn't stressing everyone out.

It wasn't until I calmed down a bit that I realized I did absolutely nothing wrong. That she was just being a big jerk and taking her other problems out on me. And I was probably the one deserving of an apology. I also remembered this is not the first time she has blown up at me. She was the one who tried to make me get a ventilator instead of a proper CPAP machine years ago. She said, "My mom has one and it works fine." And I was like, "So if I travel I'm supposed to take 12 pounds of medical equipment instead of a 1 pound device that fits neatly into a backpack?"

I get why my doctor made excuses for her. She works very hard and puts up with him. He'd never be able to find anyone that would last a week doing that job. And I have a feeling he probably defended me after I called. I played what he said back in my brain and noticed a frustrated tone. Despite what he said, it seems clear he was pissed.

I can make amends and figure things out with her. That isn't an issue. But I am worried that between her and CPAP lady, all of the progress I've made trying to reduce my telephobia was erased. I really was getting better calling people. I used to need Katrina hanging out on Skype while I called anyone as moral support. And while it still helps, I've gotten a lot better at calling strangers on my own. But now, I'm not so sure.

I might ask if there is an office email address I can use from now on. If I can write out what I need there is no way to get interrupted. I can be clear and detailed and use my writing skills to communicate way better than my phone skills.

I don't know.

It was just a crappy way to end a stressful, exhausting week.

But it wasn't the end!

Friday evening my sick lawyer finally called. I had rehearsed all kinds of things I wanted to say to him. But it turns out, all of my emails already did most of the talking—proof that I write a great email. He was really impressed with all of my detective work. And he said if those records pan out, he is very optimistic about my case going forward. He also said that he was expecting a denial. And it was probably good that we got that out of the way quickly. And now we get to mount more of a defense, which is what lawyers are good at. We talked for about 20 minutes and came up with a battle plan. He explained the process going forward. But he mentioned one thing that worried me.

This could take a while.

A lot longer than I was expecting.

I explained that I currently have a runway until about June 2024. That's when the mortgage money runs out. However, my brother should be willing to release my inheritance in March. I hope. I have a hard time trusting anything my brother says anymore. But if he does, then I should have another year of mortgage payments. But I am definitely going to have a Plan B just in case my brother finds a new way to disrespect my father's wishes.

The lawyer said there is a quick thing and a long thing. The quick thing has a low chance of success. But it is worth trying. The long thing is a hearing with a Social Security lawyer. He said a lot of these lawyers are miserable and don't want to be there and don't really care. Which is a good thing because they'll just be like, "Fine, whatever." But it can take a long time to get a hearing due to backlogs.

So, as long as I can gather all the evidence and the hospital records have my ECT stuff, I think there is room for hope. A little hope. After years of chronic illness I know hope is sometimes dangerous. So I allot a tiny bit of hope to keep me going forward, but not enough hope to leave me devastated if things go tits up.

So... umm... I think that is the end of this novel of a post. I feel bad that I don't have a big climax or twist or cliffhanger. Should I add a big CGI dragon fight?

Even though a more down-to-earth kung fu fight with my brother would be a more satisfying conclusion?

Or I could pull an M. Night Shyamalan and reveal that I've been dead for quite some time.

This post is getting really long.

Why are you still reading this?

I am thankful that you are. I just needed to get all of that out. I hope I wrote it in a compelling way and you weren't bored.

I love you all.

[sunmontuewrites]

Goals for the weekend

So it's a 3-day weekend because I am taking today off work but I am LOADING myself up with tasks... RED are must do items, ORANGE are 'necessary' and GREEN ones are 'wish list'.

Make a farewell card

Write 5k minimum on my Big Bang

Work on Quilt for 30 minutes

Have a bath

Got to Vetro - get butter beans

Beauty appointment - eyebrows and lashes

Pick up cake tin

Make grocery order

Pick up groceries

Visit RB

Make lemon cake

Cat litter

Make chocolate cake

Go to cake decorating shop and collect supplies

15 loads of washing

Change sheets on bed

Make almond, lemon, coconut loaf

Facial

Manicure

Pedicure

6 1 x 10 minute tidy on end room

Check work emails and approve timesheets

Wash CPAP machine

Clean toilet

Friday - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Saturday - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Sunday - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Friday - Morning routine / Evening routine

Saturday - morning routine / evening routine

Sunday - morning routine / evening routine

Friday walk

Saturday walk

Sunday walk

Tidy + dust dining room

Tidy + dust lounge

Tidy + dust bedroom

Tidy + dust hallway

Tidy + dust end room

Do a drawing

Write another 1k/ 2k/ 3k/ 4k/ 5k/ 6k/ 7k/ 8k/ 9k/ 10k

Work on Kindle case for at least 30 minutes

Work on travel case for CPAP machine?

Photograph August Daily Diary and upload them

12/14 RED items - 86%

34/41 ORANGE items - 83%

15/25 GREEN items - 60%

[tricaremedical]

Big Sleep Therapy in the Smallest Package – Transcend Micro

Sleep soundly wherever you go with the Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP Machine! Weighing just 0.48 lbs and measuring under 4 inches wide, it's the smallest and lightest CPAP device available. Enjoy whisper-quiet operation, universal mask compatibility, and versatile power options—including an optional battery for off-grid adventures. Ideal for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking uninterrupted sleep therapy on the move.

[minitravelcpap]

Revolutionizing Travel CPAP: Transcend Micro Redefines On-the-Go Sleep Therapy

Introducing the Minitravelcpap by Transcend Inc. – a game-changer for travel enthusiasts seeking to conquer the hurdles of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Elevate your travel experience with this compact and powerful Micro CPAP device. Designed by Transcend Inc. to seamlessly integrate into your journey, Minitravelcpap ensures uninterrupted sleep therapy on the go. Say goodbye to the challenges of OSA and hello to a revitalized, well-rested adventure with Transcend Micro CPAP – your passport to a truly transformative travel experience.

[asexualcorvidae]

There's something to be said about the public performance of discussing concepts like "how one's year went" and "plans for the next year" publically, but there's something nice about sharing these thoughts with the world - even if they are mostly melancholy this year.

This year has been... mixed, to say the least. On a personal level, I don't have much to comment on. I had a paid month off of work in May, which I spent traveling to a few places to see people I haven't seen in a long time (as well as visit family). This time off was really nice. Really, really nice. I wish this wasn't a once-in-a-blue-moon thing. I found such regularity in being around other people.

Beyond the personal, work has been much improved. A very long & tedious project finally finished. (Mostly. It has been over half a year and I am still helping to clean things up. I don't mind it, though; it can be interesting work at times, and when it isn't, it helps to pass the time.) Now that this monster of a project is done, work has mostly been steady & consistent - which is a boon considering Everything Else Going On.

Oh, the medical stuff. It started slowly this year, with a diagnostic colonoscopy + endoscopy revealing nothing regarding my energy levels, and has since spiraled into 5 months of endless appointments and tedious "following-up-on-people-who-should-have-done-things-independently". My PCP sucks (2 months to go until I get a new one) and treated me like shit. I got off of continuous iron supplementation, finally, after over 5 years. I tapered down my SSRIs. (I could not come off them completely, because apparently Lexapro enhances the affects of Adderall, and changing my Adderall dose during the ongoing DEA-manufactured "shortage" is, in my opinion, a non-starter.) I was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea & have been working to adjust to sleeping with a CPAP machine, which is still an ongoing process. I finally got into physical therapy, struggled immensely with it, and was then referred to aquatic physical therapy, which has gone really well - perhaps the only medical thing that really has gone well this year. I'm still seeing eating disorder specialists, even if I haven't made much headway there. (There's too much going on.) I still have many problems, and many which I believe to still be undiagnosed & untreated. I'm better than I was 2 years ago, but I don't think I'm better than I was last year.

I do think I've improved with keeping up with chores. I've hammered down quite a few to keep up with on a weekly basis. (Laundry, dishwasher, trash, recycling, mail, and groceries.) It is... mixed at times, but I do what I am able to. I overhauled a lot of what was in my bathroom this year too. I replaced my shower curtains. I finally had maintenance replace my shower head, after owning the thing for over 2 years. I got new bath mats. I cleaned out much of the old medicines & supplies. (The supplies are still waiting to be donated. That's for another day.)

That's about all I have for a reflection on the previous year. I don't fully remember what my resolve was for this year - if I had to hazard a guess, I wanted to keep a focus on medical things (which I definitely did, for better or for worse) and maintain some structure with chores (which is much improved over the past year - I am, at the very least, basically never backlogged on anything I consider to be in a maintenance state).

As for next year... the medical focus is self-explanatory (and necessary). I actually might even join a gym??? (It's really terrible that there's no way to access a warm water pool without paying for it in some capacity. Medical care is gate kept by money! Unsurprising.) I'll keep tweaking my CPAP settings in pursuit of better sleep. I would, eventually, like to get off of Lexapro entirely. A new PCP will hopefully mean a new set of eyes on all of my symptoms. And, energy permitting, I'd like to get back into cooking - which I think will help my eating disorder a bit. (I'm not sure if I will be able to do it without the support of a meal kit service. I'd like to be able to do that, but I'm really not sure where I stand there.)

Beyond the medical, I want work to remain mostly stable. I'll keep advocating to be paid more, but I'm not expecting much. At this point, the health insurance is so worthwhile that I'm not particularly interested in moving jobs (or moving period). And in my personal life, I want to keep working to make my apartment somewhere I am happy to be in - somewhere I am proud to have decorated and am proud to maintain.

That's about it. I hope 2024 is a better year. (At the very least, I hope it is okay.)

[vvatchword]

For a long time I experienced day-killing, life-ruining sinus headaches. They would absolutely wreck me. They'd knock me out for days at a time. I'd wake up with pain over and behind my eyes. Sometimes it was bad enough that I would throw up. I would have to avoid screens, light, and heat. Others have described these episodes as migraines to me, but I really don't think they are, even now. I never had any of the other migraine symptoms, like auras.

It was relatively easy to blame certain traits--dust storms and high-pollen days being the most obvious. But as to fixing it? Jesus christ i didn't know. So I went on a long trek over a period of 4 years to figure out how to stop these motherfucking headaches.

Early on, I tried pain medication, which only dulled the pain a little; this was par for the course for me, since medication has a reduced effect on me in general. I progressed to sitting in hot showers with the lights turned off. I started using something I called "Magic Drink," a preworkout supplement full of caffeine and amino acids called "NO Xplode" (originally I mixed another amino acid mix in it, and even now I use lemon juice to give it a little substance). This would outright kill lighter episodes. Eventually I began using something called a "Sinuspik" to cleanse my sinuses--think Neti Pot, but with vibrations (god it feels good when your snoot is sad). These solutions were hit and miss, unfortunately. Some days were just so bad that it didn't matter if I used all of them at once.

So I went in for allergy shots. This actually worked, but it didn't solve everything. Mostly, they reduced length and severity of episodes. I still had bad days every two weeks or so.

Found out I had sleep apnea. Got a CPAP machine. Friendos, this was the first big solution: turns out I was snoring and fucking up my sinuses in the night. I was able to reduce episodes dramatically using this.

But STILL! The headaches continued.

The final piece of the puzzle: I have bad anxiety and grind my teeth day and night. Turns out that a combination of my unique bite and my anxiety caused the tension to travel up my teeth into my sinuses. I invested in Invisalign, something I had always rolled my eyes at (lol who gives a fuck about straight teeth amirite). I had to pay for it with my credit card and I'm fucking glad I did: like magic, the episodes completely disappeared. My life may be shitty as fuck but I'm not nauseous and dying of boredom in a dark, quiet room because of it. A combination of corrected bite and effective retainers was all I needed.

The last couple of days I have fallen asleep without my usual protections--the Invisalign retainers and the CPAP--and this forgetfulness has reminded me of my hubris. The solution to my problem was no magic pill: it was multiple solutions. The Invisalign in particular was not something I expected or looked for, and I thought I'd mention it in a public place in case it's a solution you haven't considered.

I never see anyone talking about this, so I wanted to suggest something in case it helps you as much as it helps me.

[voidendron]

Varkhal + Assistance Tech

Loathe as he is to admit it, Var uses assistance tech to make dealing with his conditions not only easier, but in some cases possible at all. It's only because he's from a family of old money (and inherited double what he was meant to, with the loss of his brother who was meant to get the other half) that he can afford the tech he needs. He likely wouldn't have survived in the Empire without it.

Rebreather

Breathing issues cause him to have a hard time getting enough air. He needs to wear a rebreather - or some other form of mask, tube, nasal canula etc. connected to a source of oxygen - at just about all times. He can take it off for short periods of time given he's somewhere with good air quality + ventilation, mostly to eat or shower, before putting it back on.

His usual rebreathers function almost as filter systems, filtering extra oxygen from the air to feed into the mask, while also filtering the CO2 out of the mask. The ones meant for daily use, wearing into combat or the field and such, tend to be clunky and somewhat uncomfortable, as they need the space to have the technology in them to work properly.

He has more "lightweight" ones, as he'd describe them, for when he's just hanging out, tinkering, not doing anything that makes his breathing pick up. These ones are more comfortable, but can't keep up with oxygen intake if he's doing anything remotely strenuous.

When he sleeps, he uses something similar to a CPAP. His breathing is worse when he's asleep, so he needs a stronger source of pure oxygen. The mask connects to a high-quality machine via a tube; the machine is like a large version of his usual rebreather, filtering larger volumes of oxygen at a time through itself and into the tube/mask, while dispelling the CO2.

While not fully intentional, the filters in his rebreather(s) also help to keep him from getting sick.

Koboh (no serial number)

Var uses she/it interchangeably for Koboh.

Outside of his rebreather, Koboh is his most obvious piece of assistance tech. She's a large droid, modelled after a varactyl (the flower of her namesake, Koboh spiker, is engraved on her head). Var has an implant in his skull connected to her, allowing him to communicate simple things with her, as well as allowing her to get certain types of readings from him. She can also get readings from his various rebreathers/other masks.

She's essentially an alert droid, with a number of other tasks also programmed into her.

Tasks and alerts include:

-Informing Var (or others) if his rebreather or components in it are nonfunctional. She carries both a spare, lightweight quality one, as well as one connected to her via a tube, similarly to his sleep setup. Lightweight one is for more mobility but can't give as much oxygen, one connected to her for if he's really struggling for air and being stuck at her side is fine. -Carries his immunosuppressants, and also gives him a ping when it's time to take them -Carries his AAC -Keeps track of his blood oxygen levels via the implant -Finds another person to aid Var if he's injured or unconscious -Able to use his AAC to communicate something Var might need if he's unable to -Meant to be a mount, he uses her if he's expected to travel long distances or over rough terrain by foot -Keeps track of air quality -Has an emergency combat setting, reserved only for if Var is in immediate danger and can't defend himself. Priority is to run, with him on her saddle -Emergency setting for if Var isn't breathing, is unconscious, and there's no one around to help -She scans most people she meets, then sends a ping to Var's implant. He can then set "tags" for the person, ping them back to Koboh, and the tags get saved to her databank. Different tags allow her to have different interactions with people (all of the polycule has friend tag, with priority tag be noted for some of them for certain circumstances, for example)

TZ-9947 - "Bluebell"

Var uses it/its for bluebell.

A very small droid that floats near Var. There's a bluebell squish bloom engraved over its compartment.

Since Koboh can't follow Var everywhere, Bluebell is intended to follow him places that she can't go. It's usually mounted over Koboh's chest, but when Koboh is told to stay put and to release Bluebell, it activates to follow Var.

Its compartment carries immunosuppressants, it alerts him if he needs to take them, and it also keeps track of his blood oxygen levels via the implant. He'll sometimes keep a pain stim or two in it, as well.

AAC Device

Var's voice is so quiet that his rebreather can easily drown it out if someone isn't giving him their full attention. Paired with the rasps from the rebreather itself, and general communicator interference, he can be anywhere from difficult to impossible to understand over comm. To make up for it, he has an AAC with pre-set words and phrases to each button.

There's general, military/command-type buttons, and medical ones on the device.

As it's physical buttons, Koboh can also use it to communicate if Var needs something.