The idea of going to Antarctica as a member of a research team is finally starting to sink in. The thought of participating in a PolarTREC expedition has been an abstract and remote fantasy for many months. It has been more like a bedtime story for my kids than a real possibility. But now, having all those wires connected to my body while checking for my heart's health finally brought in the idea of the expedition. Being poked by numerous needles and having my blood drawn for countless analysis have made me realize that is no longer a dream, that it is actually happening. I am exited with the real beginning of the preparations!
These medical tests are part of an extensive health screening that all people going to Antarctica have to go through, to minimize the possibility of major medical complications while in Antarctica. There are no major medical facilities in the research stations, so a real complication would involve an emergency flight that I would rather not take. It is better to be proactive than reactive.
And so the adventure begins. What mysteries will we uncover in the Southern Seas? What wonders will we face in the twelve-hour watches that await us aboard the Palmer? Will we see penguins and whales, and dolphins and all sorts of birds? How will it feel to be tossed around in a stormy sea? We will have to wait a couple of months more to find out. For the moment I am happy to know that dreams do come true as I prepare to embark on a one in a life opportunity.