Monday, July 07, 2008

TMI

I know this may be too much information for some, but I am proud of it. I had my PA redone while in Atlanta. Knowing I was going for a morning business meeting, and having the afternoon free, I called Kolo Piercing on the recommendation of an acquaintance. Kolo has (in stock) lots of sizes, etc., of titanium jewelry.

My last attempt at a PA didn't go so well because of an apparent allergy to the stainless steel ring. So, I took that one out and the hole closed up. No problem. But I missed it.

So, unsure of the best size and gauge, it was a bit difficult to order something and then take it to a local piercer. Kolo has it all in stock! Gigi, was very professional, extremely careful, and followed all safety and health guidelines to a T. She was great!

Piercing into the old scar tissue and then fitting a new and larger gauge through it was painful. Way painful. OMG painful. this was much worse than the first time, but only because of the scarring. But I'm a big boy with a high tolerance. After everything was "through", it was fine.

Why do this? It was not done on whimsy or while intoxicated. I've thought about it a long time, much more than I had before. Coming out involves mourning and rejoicing. Grief over what has been lost, celebrating what is gained. That's why I've done it. The tears have flowed over the grief, this symbol on my body celebrates, reclaims, and marks a new awareness of me. A new beginning.

The journey goes on, with a 6 gauge circular barbell, in titanium.

17 comments:

BentonQuest said...

Yay!!! Good for you! I am glad you were able to get a new piercing and I hope this one doesn't cause a reaction.

Ur-spo said...

nothing like a 'new frock' to brighten up you day, isn't there?

Anonymous said...

OUCH! Despite the fact that I am wincing and grimacing while reading your entry, your reasons for doing so are so appropriate and right on key. Congrats!

manxxman said...

You're a braver man them I am....by miles. I have a friend that also has a PA, but occassionally he will replace it with a Yale Lock......show off.

Jeffrey said...

I love mine - it was done by a friend, a research pathologist who is also a part-time piercer. It and my ear piercing marked an important new beginning in my life. My ex hated it.

Anonymous said...

Ok, um, I have to second the OUCH...but I certainly do admire you for your bravery and reasons.

publius100 said...

Jesus. OMG.

john said...

Just sounds so painful!!

Anonymous said...

I guess we all modify our bodies for different reasons. A few years ago, I had my nips and PA done all in the same sitting. I found the PA to be the worst procedure, but it healed the fastest. The nice thing...once it heals the hole doesn't usually close up, just shrinks a bit maybe. I liked that, because then I could go from statement to accessory, depending on my mood.

BentonQuest said...

But a 6 gauge??

Paul said...

Way to celebrate!

Raven~ said...

Joe

Not necessarily TMI (for me), but I gotta echo bentonquest: "6 guage?"

Is that the size you had before, or an increase? ... further stunned and amazed comments will be reserved for email ;-)

R~

Anonymous said...

Did you feel at all uncomfortable having a woman doing this piercing? I guess it's just all in a day's work for her, but ... ??? ...

Vic Mansfield said...

TO Anonymous: It didn't bother me at all. But then, a) I'm gay; b)I'm not modest.

Actually, it was rather humorous. An additional thing had to be autoclaved (sterilized), and while we waited, we had a very interesting theological discussion; with my britches down! I didn't even think about it.

If you want more info, feel free to email me directly: beartoast @ yahoo .com

Ravn... said...

My God! And I thought my nipple-piercing was painfull!! Ouch !

Tony Adams said...

This probably should not have been the first post that I read on my first visit to your blog.

Java said...

LOL @ Father Tony!!

I can't imagine. I respect your reasons, though.
Congratulations!