We were in the cockpit of an Ercoupe at the intersection of the taxiway and runway 30R at San Jose International Airport. Paul had just asked me for my log book. I rummaged through my briefcase. I was nervous. I knew what this was. Paul would sign my book, step out of the plane, and signal for me to do three touch and go’s . . flying by myself for the first time.
He was nonchalant as he put his signature in the book. He opened the door and strode out to the lighted marker for 30R and, with a flick of his wrist, he waved me on. This is the spot where 40% of student pilots reach down, push in the throttle and taxi back to the terminal, never to fly again. My heart was beating, my face was flushed, my ears were exploding from the pressure. Then, I pushed the throttle in, turned onto 30R, and did what I have always done.
But, I am concerned about the bypass surgery this week. Open heart surgery. Yipes. This is a big operation!
We have been preparing for the surgery. The whole week will be consumed with moving to a house near the hospital and visiting the cardiologist before the actual surgery at 5 AM on Thursday. Everything will have been completed.
All I have to do is show up.