The kicker to todays activities was that radiation was so backed-up. When that happens, and you have so many other things going on it, just messes up everything. Wednesdays are the days she sees Dr. Swartz (Radiation Oncologist.) They were so far behind that she has to see him tomorrow because the rest of his staff went home. What's up with that...the patient is backed up so everyone goes home? How many times have we, as patients, waited for the doctor. OK...I can just hear you docs out there getting on my case! Ha! I'm just watching out for my girl!!! Admit it...you'd feel the same way about your partner...especially when there are NO RECLINERS to lay back and snooze a little.
She said the first part of the tube placement was absolutely horrible...imagine a wire being snaked down your throat...a throat that's really dry and sore and you start gagging and coughing as this guy is trying to get this thing down your throat without hardly any pre-meds to help ease the anxiety of it all. The word TORTURE comes to mind.
LPN Toni...you did such a great job today. You really got a glimpse of what life has been like for Bren over these past several months. Thanks for being such a calming presence and helping her get through all this. I sure need a briefing on all the tube feeding particulars. I understand that the 18 wheeler will be delivering Bren's supplies to the apartment. Maybe I'll have to visit the office and see if they have a bigger apartment. We literally have one corner of the place for Brenda's medical supplies already. Bring 'em in...it's all part of the CURE!! I wonder if they have chocolate cake feeding juice for her birthday?
So I think that covers todays trauma. Get some good sleep Bren. You deserve a good restful snooze. Hopefully you'll feel a little better tomorrow...it won't be as long a day that's for sure. I love you...xoxo
Nurse Dee
I went to work early today and stayed late. I worked through lunch and barely had time to pee. The transition to electronic medical records is frustrating to say the least. After an 11 hour work day I came home and cooked supper. Then I weed wacked the yard (mowed yesterday after work) and pulled weeds. I'm now exhausted and checking the blog. Then, I happened to think that my day today was easier than any day Brenda has had in the past four months. Hang in there my friend. I'm glad today is over for you. Twelve radiation treatments done (over 1/3 finished). You're one of the strongest people I know.
ReplyDeleteChemo sabe,
ReplyDeleteWe know all the pokes, probes and side effects are expected on the path to the cure. It just makes one wonder as the docs are charting this course, if a navigation systems would help them determine a more appropriate course. I am not referring to the treatment, but rather the schedules or lack thereof. Perhaps, Nurse Dee can educate them on some time management and organizational skills.
I am amazed by your strength and endurance. Know that karen and I are in your corner sending you positive vibes to help you through this part of the process.
Toni - what a gal!
Dr. Vic - I think Chemo sabe has been indoctrinated into the medical world sufficiently to allow you to use medical terminology. Perhaps you meant to use the word "urinate." Oh wait I take that back, if you didn't even have time to do it, you most certainly do not have time to type bigger words. My bad.
Look out folks, Karen is at the iMac starting to type into the blog. Let's see how long this takes :)
Hi Guys it's me McGuyver AKA Karen
ReplyDeleteHaven't been blogging lately because I needed to get used to this new computer. So now I'm back.
Brenda, I can really feel for you and what you've been going thru. I think you are the BEST-EST patient in the whole world. Glad you had the PEG done. Now some of the pressure will be off you with eating. You sure are lucky to have all the wonderful nurses helping you thru this maze of medical treatments. Dee has been doing a great job. Her nursing abilities have really taken on a whole new life. In fact, when you're all better I can actually use a good nurse here in my ICU.
The stand in Docs and assistant nurses are so very much appreciated for all their time and efforts in helping you reach your cure. When we skyped the other night you really looked good. It was good being able to see you and talk to you and Dr Vic. It was like I was jut across the table from you. My how technology has advanced!!
Hope you have a better day tomorrow and get some good rest. Michele and I are always thinking about you and good thoughts are being sent for a speedy cure.
Take care of yourself your 1/3 of the way done!! Yippeeeeee!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
ReplyDeleteWHO IS YOUR ROLE MODEL???
Try it without looking at answers:
1) Pick your Favorite number between 1- 9
2) Multiply by 3
3) Add 3
4) Again, multiply by 3 (I'll wait while you get the calculator....) You'll get a 2 or 3 digit number.
5) Add the digits together
Now look down
Now with that number see who your ROLE MODEL is from the list below:
1. Albert Einstein
2. Nelson Mandela
3. Margaret Thatcher
4. Tom Cruise
5. Bill Gates
6. Barry Bonds
7. George W. Bush
8. Michael Jackson
9.Brenda / Chemo-sabe
10. George Washington
I definitely agree with that!
ReplyDeleteBrenda, you are absolutely a role model for me! As I'm starting to work on my panic disorder, the road ahead seems so easy to travel compared to what you are experiencing. You are truly an inspiration and my thoughts are with you every day.
ReplyDelete"How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!"
-- Maya Angelou
Vic is a hoot - she would keep us all laughing.
ReplyDeleteWish i were there to give you two a smile and hug. From your las vegas friends.