Saturday-On the Chemo Bag-Drag again!

See yesterday's post if you haven't read it yet

This morning we were early for our 9 am appointment. Finally we were called back. There is a 'gatekeeper' who pushes a button to release the electric door lock for authorized entrants. The computer scheduling systems alerts them and is confirmed by a technician who waits for you at the door.

First step upon entry is to get vitals. Deb steps on the scales, gets sitting and standing blood pressures, oxygen saturation, pulse rate, and temperature. Then we are escorted to our pod assignment. There treatment begins. Usually my duties start also: warm blankets and ice water for the lady!

Today she had labs drawn, several belly shots, and multiple pill dosages before getting the pre-meds via IV and finally getting hooked up to her chemo pumps. By the way, I try very hard to use good taste and discretion and do not always mention everything that goes on. I will say that Deb has a huge saucer-sized dark purple sore spot on her tummy where certain shots have been given too quickly. Ouch!!!

The two pumps and chemo bags

Nurse Judy assembles and packs up the chemo bag. Note the red one...affectionately called 'Red Devil"

Judy runs the two tubes under clothing in such a way that we can get Deb dressed and undressed

Today an especially sad situation developed. A new classmate was seated next to Deb. It was a teenaged boy I'd estimate at about 18 years old. How sad to see him begin this 'old-person disease!'
Perhaps we will get to know him. The nurses quickly pulled privacy curtains around him.

Now today is probably the best Deb will feel for a month as her body is once again assaulted by the strong chemo. So, after our release about 3 pm I took her to a local restaurant where she enjoyed catfish, hush puppies, fries, and cole slaw. Then home for a long nap. Of course she is now attached 24/7 to the heavy chemo pump bag. 90% of the time she calls me and I carry the bag since it exceeds her weight carrying limit.

The next four days will be much like today. Stand by for more news!

In our parking lot we met our 80+ year old neighbor, Mr Sam,  who lived in Augusta, GA for over 50 years. He goes out in the parking lot on his trolley each day for exercise. He takes such delight in seeing his Georgia neighbors and brings us Augusta magazine and golf magazines about the Masters.

Mr Sam

In the waiting area I met a retired USAF fighter pilot who at age seventy still works at Eglin AFB, Fl developing new weapons for fighter planes. We have enjoyed flying with our hands and telling stories. He went to pilot training at Craig AFB, Al. He flew F-4s in Viet Nam. He claims that exposure to Agent Orange is probably what triggered his multiple myeloma. Who knows?

Al M., retired fighter pilot