Cycle 3 Summary:
After my recent experiences with nurses having a really difficult time getting an IV started, my oncologist suggested that I consider getting a port. Initially I was hesitant to get a port because I didn't want to go through an unnecessary procedure and was really on the fence about it. So going into chemo day - I really tried to up my hydration game in hopes that it would buy me a "one and done" IV placement and prove that I didn't need a port after all. Unfortunately that was not how it would go and the nurses at the new infusion center found out why people should call me Jaimee "hard stick" Bible. After a few attempts the nurses were finally able to get an IV in my hand (ahhh how those hurt). That being said, overall the chemo infusions went well and before I knew it I was on my way home to rest. Oh, and by the end of the day I was leaning toward getting that port!!
Ain't Nobody Got Time For a Bloody Nose:
All was going pretty well in the chemo recovery cycle until Thursday afternoon when I developed a nose bleed that just wouldn't stop. I won't bore you with all the "bloody" details but after two trips to the emergency department (one Thursday and one Saturday) the physicians were able to get my nose bleed under control (👃 packing definitely doesn't feel good but it does the job).
Bloody nose >>> hard to drink water >>> DEHYDRATION:
Monday morning Nathan and I went to my port consult appointment to review the procedure and get it scheduled (on the books for Friday 1/26/18). During the visit I started to really not feel well and my vitals didn't look so hot (my blood pressure was low and my heart rate was much higher than normal). Being stubborn me, I thought I could just go to work, drink some water and that I would start to feel better. However, that's not how it all played out. By about 10:30 am my symptoms were getting worse and I was feeling light headed. So back to the ED I went and had me wondering - does 3 times in 5 days make me a "frequent flyer"?? After about a 5 hour wait I finally was taken to an exam room. Nathan and I spent another 5 hours in the ED where they "tanked me up" with IV fluids and some magnesium and sent me home to get some much needed rest.
Up Next:
Getting a port on Friday and continuing on the chemo recovery plan with my next chemo scheduled for Tuesday February 6th.
Jaimee, I haven't checked your blog since you were going in to have the procedure to remove the cyst. I was so upset when I saw that your journey with cancer was not yet over. I think the port will be so helpful, and far less painful than the IVs in your hand. Before my Mother-In-Law opted for the port, they actually put her IV in her foot (OUCH)!!! I will rely on your blog to keep updated and I try to share the updates with all your family outside of Columbus. Mark and I sit together and read all about your treatments, procedures, new hair styles (rock that G.I.Jane) and we think of you and send all of our positive vibes your way!! We love you cuz!! <3 <3
ReplyDeleteJaimee, good luck today! Let's hope that port at least will take the treatments easier; at least the IV placement part... stay strong, stay positive, keep marching on!!!
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