Today is the third day of my second month at the elite academy. I was surprised that I got accepted in the first place, but if I’m honest I’m even more surprised that I made it this far. I figured I would get cut in the first few rounds and they’d have to wipe my memory to prevent me from spilling the secrets I’d learned. Maybe I’m smarter and stronger than I had originally thought I was. Today we’re stationed outside one of the best commercial window tinting firms Melbourne has. They’re so popular that their business has basically overtaken an entire street; the storefront stretches all the way into the distance and there’s a long line of people waiting to go inside. Surely most people prefer to shop online now? That’s what I would have assumed. However, apparently glass is big business and it requires lots of in-person meetings. I have no idea why we’re here, and neither do the other students.
We’ve been disguised as university students on a field trip with their professor, so for the first time since joining the academy I’m getting to see my classmates in regular casual clothes. Usually, we’d wear skin tight black suits with loads of pockets. It’s a nice change. However, we’ve been waiting outside for a while and there’s still no sign of our instructor. I try to squint through the window tinting near me to get a glimpse of the inside of the store, but it’s tinted so dark that all I see is my own reflection, like a one-way mirror in an interrogation room. The students who are a little less professional than I am are starting to become impatient. They’re shuffling around, picking at their nails and using their disguise as university students to start loud, boisterous conversations. It’s not a good look. Being in security involves a lot of waiting, and if they can’t stand half an hour of it, how do they expect to do it as a career?
I glanced over the side at my brother, as he gently polished a single pane of glass.
‘What are you doing?’ I asked him, adjusting my hat.
‘Our job?’ he said, looking up at me confused. ‘Why what are you doing?’
‘No, that’s not… you’ve been polishing that pane of glass for nearly ten minutes.’
‘I’m a perfectionist,’ he shrugged, turning back to his window.
‘Jake,’ I interrupted him sharply. He turned around, annoyance written on his face.
‘What, you can’t let me work?’
‘There are a hundred panes of glass on this floor alone,’ I hissed. ‘I can’t have you taking all that time here! It’s not like I’m asking for something complicated, or getting you to install a glass balustrade. Cost it out, tell me how long it’ll take and how far back in the red you’ll set us.’
He squinted off into the middle distance, doing the math in his head.
‘Wait, how much do I get paid again?’ he asked me. I rolled my eyes… and filed it away for later that he wasn’t exactly sure how much I gave him to work for me.
‘Look,’ I said, calmly. ‘I just need you to pick up the pace. Perfection isn’t the name of the game here, speed is.’
‘What if I leave a streak?’
‘Then you wipe it off and move on,’ I said, pinching the bridge of my nose. ‘How did Ma ever put up with you?’
‘Hey!’ he said angrily, rising to his feet. ‘Don’t talk about my moth—’
A sharp crash echoed around the room, from somewhere near his left elbow.
‘Jakey,’ I started, keeping my tone even. ‘Did you just break that window?’
‘I think so,’ he whispered.
‘So I gotta find somebody near Melbourne who repairs glass?’
‘I think so,’ he repeated.
‘Jake…’ I started softly, leaning in close. He didn’t respond.
‘Find another window,’ I growled. ‘Before I put my elbow throw you.’
‘Yes, boss,’ he squealed, sprinting away from me.
I distinctly heard something else shatter.
Arthroscopy is the name given to the procedure which involves a surgeon diagnosing joint problems and finding treatments. This sort of procedure involves a surgeon using a small narrow tube which is attached to a fiber-optic video camera. The surgeon inserts this tube through a small incision which is cut using a scalpel. Using an arthroscope is preferable for both surgeons and the patients as it keeps the incision area small and eliminates the need for an open surgery. The smaller incision means the patients will experience less pain and will have a reduced recovery time.
It is always recommended that you speak to a specialist for your issue. For example, if your shoulder is the problem, speak to a shoulder injury specialist. Melbourne is a city with some absolutely great surgeons who could change your life. They have access to the best equipment and best cameras to ensure the surgery is done with the utmost care and accuracy.
It’s normal to feel nervous when going into a surgery, but patients can have peace of mind knowing that shoulder arthroscopies have been performed since the 1970s. Over the years, the technology for these surgeries have gotten even better and new techniques are being discovered.
There are a few risks associated with shoulder arthroscopy. These risks include tissue or nerve damage due to the placement and movement of instruments within the joint, infection, and blood clots. Despite these risks, arthroscopy procedures are considered to be safe and complications are rare.
Understanding the recovery process is crucial. Post-surgery, patients typically undergo a period of physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the affected joint. The duration and intensity of rehabilitation can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s overall health. However, the minimally invasive nature of arthroscopy generally allows for a quicker return to daily activities compared to more invasive procedures.
Moreover, the success rate of arthroscopic surgeries is quite high, with many patients reporting significant improvements in pain and joint function. This success is largely due to the precision and accuracy that the arthroscope provides, allowing surgeons to address the specific issues within the joint effectively.
In the bustling suburb of Beaumaris, the sweltering summer heat was becoming unbearable for the residents. Among them, Sarah, a young professional living in a charming but rather old apartment, struggled with the rising temperatures. Her apartment, nestled in the heart of the suburb, lacked the modern comfort of air conditioning Beaumaris residents often boasted about.
Meanwhile, across town in the Bayside area, Jack, a local café owner, faced a similar dilemma. His popular café, renowned for its artisanal coffee and quaint ambience, was losing customers due to the stifling indoor heat. He knew it was time to invest in a reliable Bayside air conditioning system to ensure his patrons’ comfort.
Sarah decided to take action and began searching for air conditioning solutions. She stumbled upon a company offering air conditioning services close to Beaumaris. Intrigued by their competitive prices and excellent customer reviews, she scheduled an appointment.
On the other side of town, Jack found a solution for his café. He contacted a renowned company known for its expertise in installing air conditioning systems in the Bayside area. Their promise of quick installation and energy-efficient models seemed like the perfect fit for his business needs.
The day of the installation arrived, and Sarah watched in anticipation as the technicians worked efficiently, installing a sleek, modern unit in her apartment. The cool breeze that filled her home was a relief from the relentless heat. She could finally enjoy her summer evenings, reading her favourite novels in comfort.
Jack’s café transformation was equally impressive. The new air conditioning system not only cooled the space but also added a touch of modernity to the interior. Customers returned, praising the comfortable new environment, and business was booming once again.
The summer heatwave was no match for the efficient air conditioning solutions available in the Bayside area. Sarah and Jack, along with many others in their communities, found relief and comfort, all thanks to the local air conditioning experts. As the sun set over the bay, the cool, refreshing air in their spaces reminded them of the small joys of modern living.
My Dearest J,
As dawn bathes Beaumaris in a warm embrace, a fervent spirit dances across the vibrant boulevards, swirling and intertwining with a tapestry woven with the golden threads of camaraderie and competition, that heralds the inception of the preparations for the legendary Great Bathtub Race.
Oh how the air buzzes with exhilaration, each heartbeat echoing the rhythmic hymns of unity and playful rivalry. All around me, the artisans and eager souls, many of whom are dab hands due to their tenure in bathroom renovations close to Beaumaris, are fuelled with fiery passion as they carve whimsical chariots from the bosom of their creative sanctuaries. I have beheld tubs with wings set to kiss the heavens, bathtubs adorned with the grandeur of peacock feathers, and even vessels that dare to bare their clownish grins, all competing for supremacy in this grandiloquent display.
The town square has transformed into a living canvas, a veritable kaleidoscope where the sublime and the ridiculous stand hand in hand, in a parade of dreams forged from chrome and porcelain. I found myself teasingly imagining the fantastic flotilla that Sandringham, guided possibly by the hands of the finest bathroom renovations specialists near Sandringham, would assemble to rival this spectacle.
As I tread amongst this vibrant tapestry of human endeavour, a delicate ballet of nostalgia gracefully unfolds within the theatre of my mind. It is as though I could hear the merry laughter that coloured our innocent days at the revered halls of our all-girls sanctuary in Black Rock, a sacred haven where our souls first entwined. Oh, how I long for the tender touch of yesteryears to cradle us once more, if only for a fleeting moment in the midst of this joyous rivalry.
Thus, my dear J, amidst this burgeoning fervour, where joyous clamour marries the harmonious chaos, I find myself entwined in a secret dance with you, a ballet of whispered secrets and the thrill of clandestine correspondence.
I pen off, my heart brimming with anticipation, entrusting this parchment with my deepest secrets, a treasure map guiding us through the labyrinth of affection that blooms in the garden of our hearts, a secret garden tended with the tenderness of affection that dares to whisper the forbidden.
Yours in secrecy and affection,
R
I always believed in fighting for the little guy. That’s what got me the superhero gig, I reckon, and now it’s what got me to start this support group. I’m Captain Adelaidian, the bloke running this show. It was a sunny morning in Adelaide when we had our first gathering, a ragtag group of superheroes grappling with life-altering changes. We met in a community centre, supported by a local disability service provider who took the whole ‘disabled superheroes undercover in Adelaide’ story better than I expected.
Fast Forward was already there, her legs encased in braces that slowed her down but didn’t dampen her spirit. She shared her story, speaking about the days she used to outrun time and how she now lives at its mercy due to her chronic illness. It was an empowering tale of resilience that left everyone inspired. Hulkwoman, once the invincible force, now on her mobility scooter, was nodding along with a solemn smile on her face.
Invisible Iva, well, we couldn’t see her, but her presence was felt nonetheless. Her voice, albeit shaky, filled the room as she narrated her isolation due to her newfound invisibility, promising to teach us the importance of feeling seen even when you’re not visible.
The mysterious and reticent Mary kept mostly to herself, sipping on her coffee while occasionally chiming in with her dry wit. She was an enigma we were all keen to understand better.
Just when things were wrapping up, the staff from a community nursing service for disabled people in Adelaide who had been so helpful with the logistics of the meeting, came in to check on us. They helped Hulkwoman adjust comfortably in her scooter and asked Fast Forward if she needed any additional support. Their concern wasn’t just professional; it was genuine care, and it warmed my heart.
As the day ended, the quiet chatter, supportive smiles, and nods of understanding that filled the room made me realise – we were no longer just former superheroes dealing with disabilities. We were a community finding strength and solace in shared stories and experiences. And this, right here in Adelaide, was just the beginning.
I believe I am the
most dedicated young tradesman in the business. In fact, I not only believe it, I know it. Someone who is the best at what they do is someone who is always prepared to grow and learn. I make it my daily mission to leave every jobsite with a new skill, or piece of knowledge that can help me do a better job next time. I also maintain this same mindset in my personal life. I like to go to bed each night knowing that I’ve done everything necessary to improve my daily work and wellbeing.
I take great pride in my work, and I know that my tools are my livelihood. I’m always on the lookout for tools and technology to add to my kit, so I can improve the level of work I do. Recently a fellow tradie told me about the best aluminium ute canopies for sale. I instantly wanted to know more. I’d never had a canopy on any of my utes before, and I couldn’t understand why. Ute canopies have so many benefits such as keeping your tools organised and protecting them against theft and bad weather conditions. I’m definitely no stranger to having tools stolen by local thieves, or corroded by poor weather.
Later that night I kept thinking about whether or not I should commit to a canopy. I already had one of the most recommended ute trays Melbourne tradies have ever seen fitted on my ute truck, why had I not thought about getting a canopy?
Once my mind was made up, I decided to use one of my afternoons to head to an aluminium workshop. They gave me a quote for the canopy and installation, and I honestly could not complain. The quote was actually a lot cheaper than I thought it would be. The installation went without a hitch too. The team was precise, efficient, and professional. It was great to see a bunch of workers maintain the same dedication to their work as I.
I swear it’s always something. Earlier this year I was sweating my skin off during the summer months because our air conditioner was broken. I was uncomfortable and feeling like a hot mess for weeks on end. Eventually I was able to get someone in to take a look at our aircon and figure out what the issue was. Once the repair happened life was bliss. There was no more sweating, and I was living my best life in total comfort. The only thing that did annoy me a bit was the fact that summer only lasted for about three more days after the repair. I honestly thought the repair would happen and I’d be blissfully enjoying a cool breeze. I definitely did enjoy a breeze; for a cool seventy-two hours. We’re now in a freezing cold winter and guess what? The heater has quit on us. It’s almost like these heating and cooling units like to give up right when they’re needed most.
Being cold in winter isn’t as bad as being hot in summer. You at least have options in winter. For example, I’m walking around with five layers of jumpers. Sure, I can’t move too much but at least I’m somewhat warm. Of course, it’s not feasible for me to stay like this for the foreseeable cold future. I’m definitely going to need to book a heater servicing. Canberra is only going to get colder in the coming weeks and I don’t think it will be physically possible for me to chuck on another jumper.
]To be honest, this heater has lasted quite a while. I don’t think it’s ever broken down previously. Plus, it’s always done a great job of heating up the whole house. I attribute this to the fact that I use the best ducted heater servicing specialists near me. Canberra has many people who can do heating repairs, but I choose to always use the best. It really does pay off in the long run as you will have less problems with your heating system.
The man in the yellow vest scratched his stomach, eyebrow raised in disbelief at the state the house had been left in.
‘You saying your… son did this?’ he asked, incredulous.
‘Oh yes,’ the old lady smiled at him. ‘He’s such a lovely boy. Came in one day and told me that he had a lovely surprise for me.’
‘Ma’am,’ the contractor grunted, hand still nervously pressed against his belly. ‘He, uh… I don’t think he…’
‘What’s that, young man?’
He sighed. Deeply.
‘He ripped all the copper out of your walls,’ he relented. ‘Looks like he took most of your plumbing too…’
‘Oh, you mean my bath modifications? Sydney ran out of porcelain, he told me,’ she explained. ‘He’ll be around any day to finish the tiling.’
‘What tiling?’ the contractor threw his hands up. ‘There’s no tiling started!’
‘It’s on backorder!’ she insisted.
He pressed his palm into his forehead, physically aware of his blood pressure.
‘Alright,’ he said, after a moment. ‘The tiles are on backorder; sure. But what about the actual bath, lady?’
She glanced down at the shattered tub and smiled again – although her eyes had wild desperation, like something was trying to break through.
‘It’s just, uh… you know. It’s the newest trend in Sydney. You know for us old folks, not something that I would expect you to be aware of, young man.’
‘It’s a hole,’ he grunted. ‘There’s a hole in your bath tub, below what I would comfortably declare is the waterline.’
‘It’s trendy!’
‘It’s broken!’
‘It’s for my hip!’
He took another deep breath, hands wringing at his sides. ‘Look, I know what you’re talking about – there are companies around Sydney that do bathtub cut outs for elderly people. It’s a great idea, will definitely help you as you find it harder to move.’
She nodded, as if accepting an apology.
‘BUT THIS IS NOT IT, LADY!’
She jumped back, surprised, hand clutching at a naked thread around her neck. The man’s eyes narrow.
‘Ma’am,’ he said softly. ‘Tell me honestly – did that used to have pearls on it?’
Yee–HAW!
I made it! I pulled through! Most of you don’t know me on here, but boy am I pumped to be click-clacking away on my keyboard again! You older folks must be used to all sorts of life-saving procedures by now, but me? Not even close! Before this year I’d only had surgery once, when I was fourteen – stupid appendix, ruining my otherwise spotless record.
Well, now my appendix (long since departed, rest in peace) will have some company! I’ve been having these achy shoulder pains every since my little slip-n-tumble last month, and when I finally managed to see one of the best shoulder injury specialists in Melbourne, I was told I would need a procedure!
My whole dang shoulder needed replacing!
Well, nothing quite that dramatic, I admit – but still a lot! I did some damage to the ball and socket mechanism that makes your shoulder do its thing, meaning I wasn’t able to fully extend mine like I hoped. And yes, you’re right – I did have to say goodbye to my baseball career. I’ll be honest, I was never going to go more than semi-pro anyway.
So after this got in the way of my real life (two trips to the car for the grocery bags? Like an animal!) I set out for my consultation and now I’m booked in for the real deal: a total shoulder arthroplasty, where they replace the ball and socket with a ceramic and plastic alternative, respectively. I was so scared when they told me – not to mention throwing away a good sixty-year streak of not having bits of me lopped off and taken away! But alas, it was the right thing to do, so… I’m sitting in a hospital bed now!
My relatives have strict instructions to delete this post if I somehow don’t return from the surgery – although I’m pretty sure my shoulder surgeon rolled his eyes when he heard me say that.
In any case, if you’re reading this… I made it! Now I just need to build up another sixty years…