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My first appointment was at Ingham Medical Center, for the MRI of the breasts. After checking in at the Admitting desk, I was registered at a second desk, then went back to Radiology to check in there, where I waited about 10 minutes for a volunteer to escort me back to the MRI area. He was a nice, older, gentleman, led me through the maze of hallways. And even though I'd been there a few times before, I wouldn't have been able to get there by myself.
When back there, he waited while I picked up the phone in that seemingly abandoned waiting area (there was no receptionist; an altered sign says to wait there, and a handwritten sign instructs you to pick up the phone to let someone know you're there).
Carol answered the phone, and said she'd be there right away. A few minutes later, she was.
I kind of recognized her; she said she had done this with me last year. The other technician was Kristi.
They were both very kind. After changing into hospital gown, open in front, and the tie-front pants, I went into the room with the machine. Carol didn't find a vein right away, but when when we turned my arm just a bit, she was able to pop that iv in the first time. That's a bonus. Then they helped me climb onto the table, belly down, positioning the breasts into the boob holes. They "adjusted" my now pendulous breasts, positioned my head on the "donut" with my face down, looking into a lighted hole, tucked my arms down beside me, connected the contrast solution in the iv, put headphones over my ears. I could hear them making adjustments in the room, but was instructed to hold still, so I couldn't see anything.
Carol's voice came on a speaker, saying we were going to start. She started some Celtic-type music, then advanced the table into the machine. There is a fan in there that was blowing cool air from the top of my head to my shoulders and back. When the machine actually started taking the images, I could barely hear the music. The machine is loud and rhythmic, and takes maybe 45 minutes to complete. She told me once that we had about 13 1/2 minutes to go, and another time that the solution was going to infuse. Then we were done.
Backed out of the table, Carol came in to undo everything, took the iv needle out, and I went to get dressed. I had also asked to see my images; last years' was up on the computer when I went in, and she showed my those, and we looked at the ones taken today. Not that I know what I'm looking at, but the size of the area where the tissue was removed was surprising to me. No wonder I have a "dent", or large dimple. As I left, she told me she'd see me next year, so I'm thinking she didn't see anything that was cause for concern. I hope she's right.
Out in the parking lot, I sat in the car and drank a bunch of water, to help flush out the gadolinium, which is an isotope, the contrast stuff.
On to the cardiologist.
The sun was shining, and I arrived right on time. I checked in at the window, and another Carol came out to get me. A small, maybe older than me, woman.
She introduced me to Lindsay, who was also in the room. Then Carol told me she was here getting some additional training. Oh. Um. Are you a student??
No, she said she was old. She was here from another facility to learn something, I forget the word she used. Oh, ok. I changed again into a paper gown, open in the front, and laid on my left side on the table, which was angled up maybe 30 degrees at the head. It was not comfortable for me to lay on my left side, but we got a pillow stuffed up under my head which helped some. She also stuck 3 stickies to me and connected the monitor to watch the heart beat.
She started the procedure, and I was happy that she turned the screen of the machine so I could watch. I tell you, that is fascinating, watching the heart beat, seeing the valves opening and closing, and the blood looking like an explosion of color bursting through. Red, blue, yellow, and orange. From what I could tell, it looked ok. But I've only watched a couple of these, and I would probably only recognize something glaringly obvious, like, very slow heart rate, or very weak valves that let both the oxygenated and venous blood mix. What I didn't like was that she was pushing that transducer pretty hard against me. She started along the side, over the ribs, just into the bottom of the breast. And that's the affected breast. I told her that it was quite uncomfortable, and she apologized, but did not change her technique. The whole 45 minute procedure was like that--her pushing just that much too firmly, causing enough discomfort that I tried to move away.
About halfway through, Lindsay came back in, and sat behind Carol. Carol had been taking lots of measurements, telling me to hold my breath, or exhale and hold, or inhale a little and hold. Then they were talking quietly between themselves, and Carol was adjusting the machine, while Lindsay was prompting her to look at different things. I don't know if they were capturing something on me, or if that was what Carol was supposed to be learning. I guess if there's a problem, they'll call, because I don't have another appointment until June. Other than going back tomorrow to get the Holter monitor taken off.
After we were done with the echo, Carol kind of half wiped the half bottle of gel off of me, pulled off the three stickies she had put on, handed me a 10 inch square of paper and told me to finish. I was surprised--but I did the best I could. Then she handed me a cold wet-wipe thing. Ok, thanks. Not much in the way of customer service there.
Lindsay stepped forward then, and helped me finish with the gel removal. She then wiped my skin with a kind of cleanser, spritzed it with another product, and attached 7 more stickies, then clipped the wires onto those. The wire harness attached to a box about the size and weight of a deck of cards, which she turned on. When it showed to be operational, she slipped it into a black fabric case that has a long strap on it. "Most people wear it around their neck." Oh. Well, this isn't going to be too comfortable like this. She finished giving me instructions, reminding me to come back tomorrow before noon (because they close at 12 for lunch), and looked like they were anxious to leave. Ok, bye.
The restroom is out by the entrance door, in the foyer, and I stopped there. After letting out the water that I had chugged, I adjusted that strap and found a way to put it over my head and put my arm through it so that it wasn't so awkward feeling. As I left the building, I saw the "gone to lunch" sign on their door.
A nice drive home in the sun.
Back at home, I had a sandwich, and Dan was ready to go shopping.
We went to Playmakers, where he had been referred, for a "proper" insert for his shoes. A nice girl name Cary helped first Dan, then me, find inserts that should help our hard working feet. I also asked about shoes, and she fitted me with a pair of Brooks that I hope will be comfortably functional. She said several times that there was a 30 day return policy on footwear. And the inserts, too. Ok, thanks.
By then we were looking for supper, and stopped at Los Tres Amigos again. That was yummy.
Back at home, Dan mostly slept the rest of the evening. He woke once and got the printer back online while he was awake.
He works tomorrow; I return the Holter monitor, then go to Jackson for a meeting.
I've felt some of the irregular rhythms this evening of my heart, but it hasn't been as irregular as it has sometimes. I hope it's enough for the doctor to figure out that it isn't worth worrying about.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Sunday 02.27.2011
A better drive to Jackson this morning, still cautious of the potential for "greasy" spots.
We had a great day at work, with a couple of my favorite co-workers. They did a good job discharging the patients who were going home, and by the end of the day we had 3 patients left. I can say I enjoyed my day today.
And the temperatures have increased, with a light rain, and about half the snow has melted. The roads were much-improved for my drive home.
Daniel had a restful day today, catching up with himself.
Tomorrow I have the MRI of the breasts, then go over to the cardiologist for the echocardiogram. They are also going to put a Holter monitor on me for 24 hours. I sure hope it will capture the arrhythmias that I've been experiencing for several months now. And that the arhythmias are not a bad thing.
Pray God.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
We had a great day at work, with a couple of my favorite co-workers. They did a good job discharging the patients who were going home, and by the end of the day we had 3 patients left. I can say I enjoyed my day today.
And the temperatures have increased, with a light rain, and about half the snow has melted. The roads were much-improved for my drive home.
Daniel had a restful day today, catching up with himself.
Tomorrow I have the MRI of the breasts, then go over to the cardiologist for the echocardiogram. They are also going to put a Holter monitor on me for 24 hours. I sure hope it will capture the arrhythmias that I've been experiencing for several months now. And that the arhythmias are not a bad thing.
Pray God.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Saturday 02.26.2011
Worked.
Tired.
Two-hands-on-the-steering-wheel drive home, as the precipitation and the temperatures were such that the roads were glazing ice in places. Fortunately, I got home safely. Dan did, too, though his route was a bit more challenging.
I work tomorrow; Dan finally has a day off.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tired.
Two-hands-on-the-steering-wheel drive home, as the precipitation and the temperatures were such that the roads were glazing ice in places. Fortunately, I got home safely. Dan did, too, though his route was a bit more challenging.
I work tomorrow; Dan finally has a day off.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Friday 02.25.2011
I finally rested last night/this morning, and got up about 9. Breakfast, brew. Sunshine.
Lovely.
I spent way too much time with paperwork and phone calls; the positive is that I had the time to do it today.
I had to get out in the sunshine, and went for a walk. The sun was warm, sure, but I'm guessing the wind chill was in the teens. When I got back in, I answered an email that came in and waited for another phone call.
While I waited, I did a yoga sequence, which continues to amaze me with how the body responds.
Supper, shower, then Dan got home.
We had a quiet evening; we both work tomorrow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Lovely.
I spent way too much time with paperwork and phone calls; the positive is that I had the time to do it today.
I had to get out in the sunshine, and went for a walk. The sun was warm, sure, but I'm guessing the wind chill was in the teens. When I got back in, I answered an email that came in and waited for another phone call.
While I waited, I did a yoga sequence, which continues to amaze me with how the body responds.
Supper, shower, then Dan got home.
We had a quiet evening; we both work tomorrow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Thursday 02.24.2011 Bone Densitromitry
I didn't sleep but maybe 3 hours total last night.
I got up and ready for the day, going over to the Mid Michigan Physician's building for the bone density DEXA scan. After checking in at the window, Tammy called me back, reviewed my chart briefly, positioned me on the table, and the machine did it's thing. She had done my scan in February of '09, and said that she'd see me in a couple of years. That was kind of cool, having the same technician after time passes.
If all our scans could be so easy. I was back in my car 20 minutes later. Non-invasive, no IV sites, injections, changing clothes, drinking something, etc.
I stopped at Meijer, filled up the car (ouch--these gas prices keep going up....) and went in for a few groceries. I was ready for lunch when I got home, so I ate.
And then I got sleepy.
I laid down, but only slept about 20 minutes. I was hoping for maybe an hour or so.
Dan got home a little earlier this evening, and we caught up on a couple things. He just needs to catch up with himself, he's been working so much.
I was able to get my computer back online, all by myself!! Unfortunately, I'm not sure just what the magic fix was. I got it, though.
And other than a little fatigue, I've been pretty good today.
Nothing scheduled tomorrow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I got up and ready for the day, going over to the Mid Michigan Physician's building for the bone density DEXA scan. After checking in at the window, Tammy called me back, reviewed my chart briefly, positioned me on the table, and the machine did it's thing. She had done my scan in February of '09, and said that she'd see me in a couple of years. That was kind of cool, having the same technician after time passes.
If all our scans could be so easy. I was back in my car 20 minutes later. Non-invasive, no IV sites, injections, changing clothes, drinking something, etc.
I stopped at Meijer, filled up the car (ouch--these gas prices keep going up....) and went in for a few groceries. I was ready for lunch when I got home, so I ate.
And then I got sleepy.
I laid down, but only slept about 20 minutes. I was hoping for maybe an hour or so.
Dan got home a little earlier this evening, and we caught up on a couple things. He just needs to catch up with himself, he's been working so much.
I was able to get my computer back online, all by myself!! Unfortunately, I'm not sure just what the magic fix was. I got it, though.
And other than a little fatigue, I've been pretty good today.
Nothing scheduled tomorrow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Wednesday 02.23.2011 Mass-ahh-ge
I had a good day today. After Daniel went to work I dozed off and on, getting up before 9. Breakfast, shower, fooled around with the internet connection on my computer. I couldn't get our "home" connection to work, but was able to jump on to someone else's nearby. Before long, it was time to go to Leah's for my appointment.
She did a marvelous job, as always, but today was exceptionally good. She worked on my arm/shoulder/chest/back and moved that lymph fluid. So much that I had to urinate twice before I left. We made more appointments, and I put them right into my new phone's calendar app. She was intrigued with my "smart phone" and asked questions. I was glad to show her what I knew about it, and how I'm using it so far. Most people I know have had a smart phone for a while, so they are the ones showing me. It really is a neat product.
On the way home I went by the post office to pick up a package for Dan, and more stamps.
I enjoyed my supper, tried to get on our own internet again, (unsuccessfully), and waited for Dan to get home. He tried, too, but fell asleep during the process. I guess I'll have to try again tomorrow.
My whole body feels better with that lymph fluid having been moved. Thank you God for putting Leah in my life.
And thank you for reading. Hugs.
She did a marvelous job, as always, but today was exceptionally good. She worked on my arm/shoulder/chest/back and moved that lymph fluid. So much that I had to urinate twice before I left. We made more appointments, and I put them right into my new phone's calendar app. She was intrigued with my "smart phone" and asked questions. I was glad to show her what I knew about it, and how I'm using it so far. Most people I know have had a smart phone for a while, so they are the ones showing me. It really is a neat product.
On the way home I went by the post office to pick up a package for Dan, and more stamps.
I enjoyed my supper, tried to get on our own internet again, (unsuccessfully), and waited for Dan to get home. He tried, too, but fell asleep during the process. I guess I'll have to try again tomorrow.
My whole body feels better with that lymph fluid having been moved. Thank you God for putting Leah in my life.
And thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Tuesday 02.22.2011
Dan and I both got to work with out incident today, thank you God. The right lane was mostly clear, but still icy/snowy in some areas.
The unit was busy at the hospital, babies popping left and right. We left the oncoming shift with the very real probability of having to open the overflow unit.
A safe drive home, thanks again.
When Dan got home I fixed him some food. He has eaten, showered, and gone to bed, so he can get up and do it again tomorrow. Not me. I have a massage scheduled, and I know I'll feel a lot better after.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
The unit was busy at the hospital, babies popping left and right. We left the oncoming shift with the very real probability of having to open the overflow unit.
A safe drive home, thanks again.
When Dan got home I fixed him some food. He has eaten, showered, and gone to bed, so he can get up and do it again tomorrow. Not me. I have a massage scheduled, and I know I'll feel a lot better after.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Monday 02.21.2011 Snow Day
I got up to go to work. I looked out the window, seeing more snow than I've ever navigated in with the G6. My "rule" is to at least try to make it out of the complex to the main road; from there it's a mile to the highway. We had about 6-8 inches of snow on the ground, with drifts. I had just gotten my jammas off when the phone rang. I wondered if someone was just checking to see if I would be able to come in... But, no, I was "on call". I was relieved that I wouldn't even have to attempt going out in this.
Dan chose to go to work, hoping that the roads would be cleared.
He called about 15 minutes after leaving, saying there were vehicles stuck in the snow at the entrance to the complex, and that I probably wouldn't have gotten through. Holt Road hadn't been plowed yet, and he was going to continue on.
He called again after 9 am, saying he had arrived. After a trip off the road and an hour long wait for a tow truck to pull him out. For $100. Geesh. The good news is that no damage was done to either Daniel or the vehicle.
I had a good day, watching the snow continue to fall. I did some reading, polished some glass and furniture, caught up on household paperwork and filing. Dan got back home about 3:30, saying the roads were improved, but not great. He started our income taxes.
I also did a couple loads of laundry.
We had a quiet evening, and he went on to bed, even before falling asleep in the chair!
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us, although one of my co-workers called to offer that if I couldn't get in, she would work for me, to call her in the morning and let her know. Thank you, Dawn, that's very thoughtful of you.
I'm feeling pretty good today, overall. Slightly sore muscles from the yoga sequences that should be ok in a day or two.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Dan chose to go to work, hoping that the roads would be cleared.
He called about 15 minutes after leaving, saying there were vehicles stuck in the snow at the entrance to the complex, and that I probably wouldn't have gotten through. Holt Road hadn't been plowed yet, and he was going to continue on.
He called again after 9 am, saying he had arrived. After a trip off the road and an hour long wait for a tow truck to pull him out. For $100. Geesh. The good news is that no damage was done to either Daniel or the vehicle.
I had a good day, watching the snow continue to fall. I did some reading, polished some glass and furniture, caught up on household paperwork and filing. Dan got back home about 3:30, saying the roads were improved, but not great. He started our income taxes.
I also did a couple loads of laundry.
We had a quiet evening, and he went on to bed, even before falling asleep in the chair!
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us, although one of my co-workers called to offer that if I couldn't get in, she would work for me, to call her in the morning and let her know. Thank you, Dawn, that's very thoughtful of you.
I'm feeling pretty good today, overall. Slightly sore muscles from the yoga sequences that should be ok in a day or two.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Sunday 02.20.2011 Another Snowstorm
These last several nights have been laced with hot flashes. They had eased a bit, but I've been waking up and wondering why I'm awake. Then--oh, I get it--blankets off, restless, hot. I've remembered that I do better if I just get out of bed, walk across the living room and use the guest bathroom (whether I need to or not), and go back to bed. By that time, the event is over and I can lay there awake again for awhile.
I had a good day, though, today. Dan went to work, and I showered, did a yoga sequence, ironed, emptied the dishwasher, read through some internet stuff.
The snow started about 1 pm, heavy, and continued heavy until after 7 pm, leaving us with about 6 inches of beautiful snow. Daniel had a slow drive home, but he arrived safely, thank you God. Since I've been writing this, I've heard the icy precipitation hitting the windows. Oh, yippee.
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us. If it's safe to drive.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I had a good day, though, today. Dan went to work, and I showered, did a yoga sequence, ironed, emptied the dishwasher, read through some internet stuff.
The snow started about 1 pm, heavy, and continued heavy until after 7 pm, leaving us with about 6 inches of beautiful snow. Daniel had a slow drive home, but he arrived safely, thank you God. Since I've been writing this, I've heard the icy precipitation hitting the windows. Oh, yippee.
Tomorrow is a workday for both of us. If it's safe to drive.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Saturday 02.19.2011
I had a pretty good day today. I would have liked to have slept better, but I got up and ready for the day.
The sun was shining all day today, looking like it was warm outside. My car thermometer showed 39 degrees. Tease.
I drove to Jackson for my haircut, then went over and picked up Frank. We met one of his friends over at Olive Garden for a tasty lunch, although mine was too peppery and I didn't eat much of it. After, Frank and I went driving around, looking at the list of properties that had accrued, doing the drivebys. He saw a couple he'd like to go inside and see, and he'll arrange that with the realtor when he's able.
A safe drive home, thank you God. Dan was home when I got there, and he wanted to go out for dinner. So we went to Los Tres Amigos. The food was very good tonight. From there over to Meijer to pick up a couple of things for Dan, then back home.
He didn't stay awake very long. He's off to bed already, sleeping well. He works again tomorrow.
I don't think I'll do much tomorrow, what with another winter storm warning predicted.
I'm feeling pretty good today; my shoulders are a bit tight.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
The sun was shining all day today, looking like it was warm outside. My car thermometer showed 39 degrees. Tease.
I drove to Jackson for my haircut, then went over and picked up Frank. We met one of his friends over at Olive Garden for a tasty lunch, although mine was too peppery and I didn't eat much of it. After, Frank and I went driving around, looking at the list of properties that had accrued, doing the drivebys. He saw a couple he'd like to go inside and see, and he'll arrange that with the realtor when he's able.
A safe drive home, thank you God. Dan was home when I got there, and he wanted to go out for dinner. So we went to Los Tres Amigos. The food was very good tonight. From there over to Meijer to pick up a couple of things for Dan, then back home.
He didn't stay awake very long. He's off to bed already, sleeping well. He works again tomorrow.
I don't think I'll do much tomorrow, what with another winter storm warning predicted.
I'm feeling pretty good today; my shoulders are a bit tight.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Friday 02.18.2011
February's mostly gone, the snow is mostly gone (with more to come on Sunday, I see), and another workday is done. Finally.
We had a pretty good day until just after 4 pm. The someone turned on the fan, and didn't turn it off, up until and after the next shift arrived.
A safe drive home, thank you God, with the beautiful, large, white, full moon lighting the way. One of my favorite times to be outside is in the light of the full moon. I think it's somehow magical, and the colors are so different than what we're accustomed to during the day.
Tomorrow is a haircut, and not sure what else.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
We had a pretty good day until just after 4 pm. The someone turned on the fan, and didn't turn it off, up until and after the next shift arrived.
A safe drive home, thank you God, with the beautiful, large, white, full moon lighting the way. One of my favorite times to be outside is in the light of the full moon. I think it's somehow magical, and the colors are so different than what we're accustomed to during the day.
Tomorrow is a haircut, and not sure what else.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Thursday 02.17.2011
Interesting day... I was up and having a good morning, all the while thinking the back of my neck was tight, and my sinuses were swollen. Then Wham!! I had a migraine. I believe it's what's called a migraine attack. The right side of the inside of my head hurt, the back of my head at the right side of the base of the skull, and my sinuses felt like they were squeezing. Very different onset of pain than I've had before. And nausea. I took one of the Maxalt tablets and laid down on the bed.
I dozed and let the medicine work; it usually does within 20 minutes or so. Of course the phone rang during that time. I ended up laying down for about 40 minutes. When I got up I took 1000 mg of tylenol and 600 mg ibuprofen for the ouchy soreness that the brain spasm caused. Yuck. The right side of my face was numb, too. (all of these symptoms have happened while at the doctor's office; that's when he figured out it was migraine, not stroke or anything like that)
When those meds kicked in, I went out to do the errands I was going to do when the attack happened. Food for us, fuel for the car.
Back at home, I was a little tired and closed my eyes for a few minutes.
I had supper, did some yoga, and did a load of laundry after Dan got home from work.
We both work tomorrow.
My head is just a little sore, and my face still has a low level of numbness. That migraine stuff is sure weird.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I dozed and let the medicine work; it usually does within 20 minutes or so. Of course the phone rang during that time. I ended up laying down for about 40 minutes. When I got up I took 1000 mg of tylenol and 600 mg ibuprofen for the ouchy soreness that the brain spasm caused. Yuck. The right side of my face was numb, too. (all of these symptoms have happened while at the doctor's office; that's when he figured out it was migraine, not stroke or anything like that)
When those meds kicked in, I went out to do the errands I was going to do when the attack happened. Food for us, fuel for the car.
Back at home, I was a little tired and closed my eyes for a few minutes.
I had supper, did some yoga, and did a load of laundry after Dan got home from work.
We both work tomorrow.
My head is just a little sore, and my face still has a low level of numbness. That migraine stuff is sure weird.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Wednesday 02.16.2011 Cardiology
I finally slept last night. Daniel said he had to nudge me a couple times, that I was "cuttin 'em down". (sawing logs/snoring) Yeah, well, I was really tired. And I snore when I'm really tired. Which means I finally slept.
I woke shortly after 8 and got up. Just as I was getting into the shower, the phone rang. Dr. Eisenberg's office, rescheduling my 11 o'clock this morning for 1:45. So I had a nice morning at home and was able to do a yoga sequence.
The doctor's office was nice, in a new office park. A guy named Alex told me he was a medical assistant, took me back and did height and weight (still 5'4", and still 169#) and blood pressure (106/64). There was a computer in the room, and he entered all of that, then pulled up my electronic chart, which has all my information from the cancer treatment. That was pretty cool. We went through the basic information--allergies, current medications--and went out to get the doctor.
Dr. Joel Eisenberg was a pleasant, though kind of funny-looking, man. Maybe 6 foot tall, pale, kind of hunched over, with mostly salty and very little pepper hair, on the long side. He was lean and fit-looking, which is a good thing in a cardiologist. Or any health care person, I think. He reviewed my chart, asking questions, and talked about the chemotherapy. As he was flipping pages/screens, the radiation caught his attention. He said that the data is coming in, showing that women treated with radiation for breast cancer, as well as other cancers, including men, are developing athersclerosis 5-20 years post treatment. I'm coming up on 3 years.
So, after more discussion and a stethoscope exam, he offered that the first thing to do would be an ultrasound/echocardiogram of the heart, to see if it's enlarged, and how the blood flow is, and strap a 24 hour holter monitor on, to see if it catches any abnormal beats. If that looks ok, then labs in 6 months, to see if anything is changing. If there is something odd, we'll discuss it and review options at that time. Overall, it was a very good visit.
From there I went to Leah's for the reflexology appointment. She did a marvelous job, as aways. I do feel better after.
Back home, I fixed supper and ate, and closed my eyes for a few minutes. Until I remembered that I had a Board meeting tonight. I got up and gathered my things and went up to the clubhouse. Only one other board member attended, and the association manager. So we had an "informal meeting", and will wait until next meeting to do any official stuff.
Dan got home shortly after I did.
Tomorrow he works, and I might take my car back to the dealer, as the engine light came on again. I hope it's not going to be an annoying recurrence that is an obscure problem.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I woke shortly after 8 and got up. Just as I was getting into the shower, the phone rang. Dr. Eisenberg's office, rescheduling my 11 o'clock this morning for 1:45. So I had a nice morning at home and was able to do a yoga sequence.
The doctor's office was nice, in a new office park. A guy named Alex told me he was a medical assistant, took me back and did height and weight (still 5'4", and still 169#) and blood pressure (106/64). There was a computer in the room, and he entered all of that, then pulled up my electronic chart, which has all my information from the cancer treatment. That was pretty cool. We went through the basic information--allergies, current medications--and went out to get the doctor.
Dr. Joel Eisenberg was a pleasant, though kind of funny-looking, man. Maybe 6 foot tall, pale, kind of hunched over, with mostly salty and very little pepper hair, on the long side. He was lean and fit-looking, which is a good thing in a cardiologist. Or any health care person, I think. He reviewed my chart, asking questions, and talked about the chemotherapy. As he was flipping pages/screens, the radiation caught his attention. He said that the data is coming in, showing that women treated with radiation for breast cancer, as well as other cancers, including men, are developing athersclerosis 5-20 years post treatment. I'm coming up on 3 years.
So, after more discussion and a stethoscope exam, he offered that the first thing to do would be an ultrasound/echocardiogram of the heart, to see if it's enlarged, and how the blood flow is, and strap a 24 hour holter monitor on, to see if it catches any abnormal beats. If that looks ok, then labs in 6 months, to see if anything is changing. If there is something odd, we'll discuss it and review options at that time. Overall, it was a very good visit.
From there I went to Leah's for the reflexology appointment. She did a marvelous job, as aways. I do feel better after.
Back home, I fixed supper and ate, and closed my eyes for a few minutes. Until I remembered that I had a Board meeting tonight. I got up and gathered my things and went up to the clubhouse. Only one other board member attended, and the association manager. So we had an "informal meeting", and will wait until next meeting to do any official stuff.
Dan got home shortly after I did.
Tomorrow he works, and I might take my car back to the dealer, as the engine light came on again. I hope it's not going to be an annoying recurrence that is an obscure problem.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Tuesday 02.15.2011
I was so tired this morning that I had difficulty on the way to work. You know, when your vision tries to tell you to close your eyes and go to sleep...? I was surprised; I've only had that experience a couple of times before on the morning drive. I arrived safely, thank you God, to the aroma of skunk. Yup, Spring.
I did my best all day long. And we were busy--9 babies on our shift alone, with 1 more to deliver! I was concerned about driving back home, and thought that if we lived in Jackson, I would have asked Daniel to come pick me up. Instead, I drank another 20 ounces of water. A full bladder keeps me awake while driving. To my surprise, I started feeling better, and was able to drive myself home without that heavy sense of fatigue.
Tomorrow Dan works, and I have appointments, the first being the cardiologist to evaluate the arrhythmia I get if I take the Femara at a less than 24 hour interval. Then to Leah for reflexology, then a condominium association board meeting in the evening.
My lower forearm was aching this morning. I did what I could to massage it a little. It doesn't feel as sore now as it did. Maybe I'll put the sleeve on tonight.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I did my best all day long. And we were busy--9 babies on our shift alone, with 1 more to deliver! I was concerned about driving back home, and thought that if we lived in Jackson, I would have asked Daniel to come pick me up. Instead, I drank another 20 ounces of water. A full bladder keeps me awake while driving. To my surprise, I started feeling better, and was able to drive myself home without that heavy sense of fatigue.
Tomorrow Dan works, and I have appointments, the first being the cardiologist to evaluate the arrhythmia I get if I take the Femara at a less than 24 hour interval. Then to Leah for reflexology, then a condominium association board meeting in the evening.
My lower forearm was aching this morning. I did what I could to massage it a little. It doesn't feel as sore now as it did. Maybe I'll put the sleeve on tonight.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Monday 02.14.2011 Hearts All Around
We had a very busy day today--oddities that took time to deal with. And it seemed that they only morphed into another challenge to deal with. It finally became time to clock out.
A safe drive home, thank you God.
I was surprised to smell skunk this morning. The weather has broken, and those critters are coming out.
The second thing I was surprised about was how much snow disappeared today. In Jackson there is maybe at least 50% grass. In Holt, we still have mostly snow cover, but it's gone by maybe half. Plow piles included. The seasons are sliding on by.
Daniel finally has a day off tomorrow. I'm working.
One of the "girl's asked about my arm today; she noticed that it looks puffy. Yup, it is. "chronic lymphedema." I see Leah on Wednesday for Reflexology, and next week for massage. She'll help get things better.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
A safe drive home, thank you God.
I was surprised to smell skunk this morning. The weather has broken, and those critters are coming out.
The second thing I was surprised about was how much snow disappeared today. In Jackson there is maybe at least 50% grass. In Holt, we still have mostly snow cover, but it's gone by maybe half. Plow piles included. The seasons are sliding on by.
Daniel finally has a day off tomorrow. I'm working.
One of the "girl's asked about my arm today; she noticed that it looks puffy. Yup, it is. "chronic lymphedema." I see Leah on Wednesday for Reflexology, and next week for massage. She'll help get things better.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Sunday 02.13.2011
With temperatures in the low 40's today, it sure smells and feels like spring. I had the windows open for a little bit. I've vacuumed, done 2 loads of laundry, food prep/clean up, went out for errands again.
I also did a yoga sequence that really helped my arm. It shouldn't amaze me any more, but it does.
When Daniel got home from work, I did a third load of laundry.
We both work tomorrow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I also did a yoga sequence that really helped my arm. It shouldn't amaze me any more, but it does.
When Daniel got home from work, I did a third load of laundry.
We both work tomorrow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Saturday 02.12.2011
I finally slept last night. Dan left for work and I slept again until the bright sun was coming in my window.
After getting ready for the day and having breakfast, I went out for a couple of errands. It was almost balmy at 25 degrees.
Back home, I put away groceries, put the scalloped potatoes together for supper, and had lunch. Next thing, I had a little nap.
Only 15 minutes or so, but it felt good.
I read and worked on classwork the remainder of the day. We had supper when Dan got home. He's really tired, too, and it wasn't long before he was in bed.
Tomorrow is open. Maybe I'll nap again...
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
After getting ready for the day and having breakfast, I went out for a couple of errands. It was almost balmy at 25 degrees.
Back home, I put away groceries, put the scalloped potatoes together for supper, and had lunch. Next thing, I had a little nap.
Only 15 minutes or so, but it felt good.
I read and worked on classwork the remainder of the day. We had supper when Dan got home. He's really tired, too, and it wasn't long before he was in bed.
Tomorrow is open. Maybe I'll nap again...
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Friday 02.11.2011
Another workday. A pretty good day, overall.
I noticed this afternoon that the lymph nodes up my neck, and near the earlobe, were ache-ing, hurting. I'm thinking it's the lymph fluid backed up. I'm ready for my next massage appointment.
I'm pretty tired, hoping I can sleep in, in the morning.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I noticed this afternoon that the lymph nodes up my neck, and near the earlobe, were ache-ing, hurting. I'm thinking it's the lymph fluid backed up. I'm ready for my next massage appointment.
I'm pretty tired, hoping I can sleep in, in the morning.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Thursday 02.10.2011
Another workday.
One of my patients tried to bleed 12 hours after delivery, but we intervened, and saved her a trip to the operating room. Good teamwork between the doctor and nurses. Thanks to all.
I had a safe drive both ways, in single digit temperatures. Dang, it's cold. But I'm thinking that in 5 weeks or so, the seasons will be changing, and soon it will be spring...
I felt pretty good today, other than being a little fatigued. That "cording" along the inside of my forearm is really sore to gentle pressure. Maybe that means it is going away.
Tomorrow is another work day for each of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
One of my patients tried to bleed 12 hours after delivery, but we intervened, and saved her a trip to the operating room. Good teamwork between the doctor and nurses. Thanks to all.
I had a safe drive both ways, in single digit temperatures. Dang, it's cold. But I'm thinking that in 5 weeks or so, the seasons will be changing, and soon it will be spring...
I felt pretty good today, other than being a little fatigued. That "cording" along the inside of my forearm is really sore to gentle pressure. Maybe that means it is going away.
Tomorrow is another work day for each of us.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Wednesday 02.09.2011
What a beautiful day it was today!!
I got my business taken care of first thing, and headed north to pick up KS, and from there went on to The Lake, stopping in Rose City for lunch.
There was no way we were getting in the driveway. There was about 2 feet of snow, with drifts to maybe 3+ feet. We parked at the neighbor's, stopping in their garage to add our "snow" clothing before trudging on up to the JC.
Wow.
I opened the back door, and it was very nice in there, meaning we didn't see our breath. The new furnace works! I putzed around, putting the furniture back in place, and KS helped me. The house warmed in less than 15 minutes. We got ready to go for a walk.
The snow was fun, but took lots of effort, to walk around in. We got out on the lake, and sometimes our feet would sink, and almost stick, like in the mud. When we looked at our footsteps, there was water. What?!??! Ack--I know that it's been cold enough that the ice is safe, and there were vehicle tracks out there, but this was weird. Neither KS or myself were wanting to fall into that very cold water, so we trudged back to shore. Very strange.
We went in to warm up and gather our things to leave. I shut off both furnaces, leaving the electric space heaters on. When I checked the propane pig we were almost out, and I didn't want to run out. I hear that running out of propane is a problem.
Bob and Evelyn had gotten home, flagging us to come in. We did, and had a pleasant, short, visit. They said that there is a layer of slush on top of the ice about 6 inches, I think they said, and then the snowstorm hit, so the slush is sandwiched between the ice layer and the fluffy snow layer. Very strange.
We had a safe drive home, thank you God, and I visited with Tom and KS a short bit before continuing home. Just as I was exiting the highway, the check engine light came on. I checked what fluids I could, and they were ok, so I'll have to figure out a way to get the car somewhere to have it looked at. *sigh*
Tomorrow is a workday for both Dan and I. Of course he's long to bed, and I'm on my way.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I got my business taken care of first thing, and headed north to pick up KS, and from there went on to The Lake, stopping in Rose City for lunch.
There was no way we were getting in the driveway. There was about 2 feet of snow, with drifts to maybe 3+ feet. We parked at the neighbor's, stopping in their garage to add our "snow" clothing before trudging on up to the JC.
Wow.
I opened the back door, and it was very nice in there, meaning we didn't see our breath. The new furnace works! I putzed around, putting the furniture back in place, and KS helped me. The house warmed in less than 15 minutes. We got ready to go for a walk.
The snow was fun, but took lots of effort, to walk around in. We got out on the lake, and sometimes our feet would sink, and almost stick, like in the mud. When we looked at our footsteps, there was water. What?!??! Ack--I know that it's been cold enough that the ice is safe, and there were vehicle tracks out there, but this was weird. Neither KS or myself were wanting to fall into that very cold water, so we trudged back to shore. Very strange.
We went in to warm up and gather our things to leave. I shut off both furnaces, leaving the electric space heaters on. When I checked the propane pig we were almost out, and I didn't want to run out. I hear that running out of propane is a problem.
Bob and Evelyn had gotten home, flagging us to come in. We did, and had a pleasant, short, visit. They said that there is a layer of slush on top of the ice about 6 inches, I think they said, and then the snowstorm hit, so the slush is sandwiched between the ice layer and the fluffy snow layer. Very strange.
We had a safe drive home, thank you God, and I visited with Tom and KS a short bit before continuing home. Just as I was exiting the highway, the check engine light came on. I checked what fluids I could, and they were ok, so I'll have to figure out a way to get the car somewhere to have it looked at. *sigh*
Tomorrow is a workday for both Dan and I. Of course he's long to bed, and I'm on my way.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Tuesday 02.08.2011
I enjoyed doing errands in the sunshine today, though the wind was really cold. When I got back home, I started dinner, which turned out really yummy.
Tomorrow I'm taking a day trip to The Lake, to make sure all is well. I'm going to pick up KS along the way, if all is well with her parents. I'm looking forward to visiting with her.
I've felt pretty good today, just the minor discomforts that are always around somewhere. I like that the yoga stretches get the blood flowing. I'm sure that it's helpful.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Tomorrow I'm taking a day trip to The Lake, to make sure all is well. I'm going to pick up KS along the way, if all is well with her parents. I'm looking forward to visiting with her.
I've felt pretty good today, just the minor discomforts that are always around somewhere. I like that the yoga stretches get the blood flowing. I'm sure that it's helpful.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Monday 02.07.2011
I didn't do much today, mostly rested and stretched.
A little light housework: food prep, made a grocery list, a load of laundry, kitchen tidied.
I've wanted to nap all day, but didn't.
Tomorrow I'll get groceries, refuel the car, stop at the library, and whatever else I want to do while I'm out.
I've read that the pressure changes in the airplane can cause a lymphedema flare. That doesn't seem to have happened. I would think that it would be immediate? My ears are still ringing, though.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
A little light housework: food prep, made a grocery list, a load of laundry, kitchen tidied.
I've wanted to nap all day, but didn't.
Tomorrow I'll get groceries, refuel the car, stop at the library, and whatever else I want to do while I'm out.
I've read that the pressure changes in the airplane can cause a lymphedema flare. That doesn't seem to have happened. I would think that it would be immediate? My ears are still ringing, though.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Sunday 02.06.2011
A much better workday today, though the pall overshadowed the us.
I was really tired when I got up this morning, but I was pleasantly surprised that I felt so good after lunch (at 2 o'clock), and for the rest of the afternoon. I had seen that it was snowing some outdoors, but when I got to the car, it had freezing rained a little, and all the glass needed scraped. The temp was 32 degrees, though, and with the car started the ice melted quickly and was easily removed.
Along the way home there were 2 cars off the road in different areas. My speed was only 45-48 mph. One of the vehicles that had passed me was one of those off the road, stuck in the snow.
Dan got home shortly after I did. He watched a little of the Super Bowl before going off to bed. I'm on my way soon, too.
Tomorrow I finally get to rest.
My ears are still "full" feeling from flying, and sore. They're "ringing", too. Sure hope that resolves soon.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
I was really tired when I got up this morning, but I was pleasantly surprised that I felt so good after lunch (at 2 o'clock), and for the rest of the afternoon. I had seen that it was snowing some outdoors, but when I got to the car, it had freezing rained a little, and all the glass needed scraped. The temp was 32 degrees, though, and with the car started the ice melted quickly and was easily removed.
Along the way home there were 2 cars off the road in different areas. My speed was only 45-48 mph. One of the vehicles that had passed me was one of those off the road, stuck in the snow.
Dan got home shortly after I did. He watched a little of the Super Bowl before going off to bed. I'm on my way soon, too.
Tomorrow I finally get to rest.
My ears are still "full" feeling from flying, and sore. They're "ringing", too. Sure hope that resolves soon.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Saturday 02.05.2011
For new mothers without babies, and new babies without mothers.
This job is a heartfull.
May God and His Angels surround us all, with peace and strength.
Thank you for praying. Hugs.
This job is a heartfull.
May God and His Angels surround us all, with peace and strength.
Thank you for praying. Hugs.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Friday 02.04.2011 Ahhh, Home
I didn't figure out how to blog from the Droid phone, but I didn't have much time to work with it. Our hosts didn't have a computer, and we didn't take one, but our phone's access was enough to check flight status and such. Learning how to blog with it is on my list, though pretty far down.
We're home now, after a safe trip there and back, thank you God. We had great fun--temps in the 80's, humidity at 100% (really), good company. We ended up staying with one of Dan's friends and his wife, who were lovely host/hostess in their (vacation) home on Marco Island in Florida, just south of Naples. We walked the beach at sunset, listened to a Big Band concert in the park, took a pontoon ride out to the Gulf and back in through the maze of the numerous channels, saw dolphins and pelicans and terns and herons and cranes and cormorants and....I just love the water.
Another one of Dan's friends had both taken us and retrieved us from Detroit Metro airport. Tuesday morning, the "Blizzard of 2011" had started, and the drive there was slow and slippery. We arrived just in time to stand in line at the check in kiosks, then stand in line through security, and hurry to the gate, where boarding was just starting. We went back to the restrooms, and when we got back to the gate, our "zone" was boarding. Although we had some anxiety about getting to the airport in time, it turned out perfect. Not having to wait around was great. When we got back to Detroit, Dan called him and let him know we had arrived, and were scooped up as soon as we got outside. What a change, 20 degrees and breezy!
The roads were cleared, except for within our complex. The snowplow had gone down the main road through, but with the wind and drifting, it was a one lane mess. I was very pleased to turn into our condominium area, however, as "our" snow removal contractor had done an excellent job, with dry pavement in both the roads and sidewalks, including in front of each of the garage doors. Wonderful! That's why we chose condominium living--for right now, anyway. No shoveling or lawn mowing.
We were greeted by the sounds of the smoke alarms blaring. From our unit. Hm. After looking around, we couldn't find what the cause was. Turning off the circuit breaker didn't stop the noise, so, one by one, Dan took the batteries out of them. Then we could turn the breaker on again without them blaring. All of the batteries tested good, and we don't know anything else to check. Or who to call to ask.
I'm feeling good physically. The plane rides don't seem to have triggered any lymphedema issues. My ears, however, didn't travel well. I used a Vicks-type (store brand) nasal inhaler, took tylenol and motrin, and claritin pre-flight, and re-medicated as time indicated. I also used the EarPlanes ear plug type things, to help equalize the pressure in the ears. It mostly worked on the way there, but on the way back I had a lot of ear pain during the last hour or so, when we were descending. Now my ears feel full of cotton, are ringing, they feel swollen and tender on the inside. Hopefully the motrin will help with that and they'll ease in the next couple of days.
Dan and I both work tomorrow. I'm planning on sleeping well with my own pillow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
We're home now, after a safe trip there and back, thank you God. We had great fun--temps in the 80's, humidity at 100% (really), good company. We ended up staying with one of Dan's friends and his wife, who were lovely host/hostess in their (vacation) home on Marco Island in Florida, just south of Naples. We walked the beach at sunset, listened to a Big Band concert in the park, took a pontoon ride out to the Gulf and back in through the maze of the numerous channels, saw dolphins and pelicans and terns and herons and cranes and cormorants and....I just love the water.
Another one of Dan's friends had both taken us and retrieved us from Detroit Metro airport. Tuesday morning, the "Blizzard of 2011" had started, and the drive there was slow and slippery. We arrived just in time to stand in line at the check in kiosks, then stand in line through security, and hurry to the gate, where boarding was just starting. We went back to the restrooms, and when we got back to the gate, our "zone" was boarding. Although we had some anxiety about getting to the airport in time, it turned out perfect. Not having to wait around was great. When we got back to Detroit, Dan called him and let him know we had arrived, and were scooped up as soon as we got outside. What a change, 20 degrees and breezy!
The roads were cleared, except for within our complex. The snowplow had gone down the main road through, but with the wind and drifting, it was a one lane mess. I was very pleased to turn into our condominium area, however, as "our" snow removal contractor had done an excellent job, with dry pavement in both the roads and sidewalks, including in front of each of the garage doors. Wonderful! That's why we chose condominium living--for right now, anyway. No shoveling or lawn mowing.
We were greeted by the sounds of the smoke alarms blaring. From our unit. Hm. After looking around, we couldn't find what the cause was. Turning off the circuit breaker didn't stop the noise, so, one by one, Dan took the batteries out of them. Then we could turn the breaker on again without them blaring. All of the batteries tested good, and we don't know anything else to check. Or who to call to ask.
I'm feeling good physically. The plane rides don't seem to have triggered any lymphedema issues. My ears, however, didn't travel well. I used a Vicks-type (store brand) nasal inhaler, took tylenol and motrin, and claritin pre-flight, and re-medicated as time indicated. I also used the EarPlanes ear plug type things, to help equalize the pressure in the ears. It mostly worked on the way there, but on the way back I had a lot of ear pain during the last hour or so, when we were descending. Now my ears feel full of cotton, are ringing, they feel swollen and tender on the inside. Hopefully the motrin will help with that and they'll ease in the next couple of days.
Dan and I both work tomorrow. I'm planning on sleeping well with my own pillow.
Thank you for reading. Hugs.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
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