The Fun Starts Again

Well I had my blood work and CT scan completed.  I got notification that my urine sample was routine (meaning normal- no blood).  I heard nothing about the CT Scan nor my blood test, so I'm hoping that is a good sign.

Today was extremely warm for November.  Traffic was bordering on horrific.  My appointment was 8:20, so I'm assuming it was regular commuting traffic.  However, there was some construction going on at my exit.  Of course getting off the highway at the exit I was greeted with signs that said the exit was closed.  Would have like to have know this prior to my taking the exit.  I meandered through and took some back roads and got back on track.  I made it there with one minute to spare.  I lucked out and got a parking spot near the entrance.

Upon entering the medical office, it was like a ghost town.  So it was a quick check in.  The ride was stressful thus I had a good supply for the urine sample.  I returned to the waiting room and was quickly called.

After answering my personal information questions, I was brought to a familiar examination room.  The medical professional took some vitals and asked me to prepare for the BCG instillation.  I dropped trow and covered with their extra large napkin.  Not long after, Morgan arrived and reviewed a few things.  She had me sign a document indicating what I was getting and the risks involved.  (Every new round requires this).

Morgan is a pro.  She made short work of the procedure with very little discomfort.  After completing, she said, "See you next week."

I got home and did my marination and was only 5 minutes shy of the two hours.

Today was a do nothing day.  Given current events, I listened to classical music and watched some you tube videos I subscribe to.  I had a pretty typical reaction to the BCG.  I had some Azo to help with the burning, discomfort and frequency. When I checked the mail today, my supply of Azo arrived from my eBay purchase.  Good timing.

More to come!

Preparing For The Next Round

It's November already?  Wow, tempus fugit (time flies)!

Getting ready for (hopefully) my last round of BCG.  I ended October with some required tests to ensure that I'm able to get my next round.  On Wednesday, I had a visit with the urologist's office to provide a urine sample.  That afternoon, I received a call informing me that I had an appointment scheduled for a CT (Cat Scan) on Halloween at Holy Family in Haverhill.  I never received any communication prior, but I'm glad the office decided to call and verify. I was also informed that I needed a blood test.  Luckily I could do this at the same location prior to my CT appointment.

Halloween was quite warm (summer-like).  I arrived at the hospital early and checked in.  It wasn't too long before I was called in for my lab work.  The phlebotomist is wonderful.  One jab and instant results.  Unlike other visits elsewhere when I felt like a pin cushion. I then meandered to the Radiation department and checked in.

After completing a standard questionnaire, I was directed to the CT room and told to have a seat.  I waited about 10 minutes before being called in by the tech.  I was given a quick overview of what was going to happen (although this was not my first rodeo, I listened and concurred).  I was told to lie on the slab and lower my pants to my knees.  I was also asked which arm to use for the IV/contrast.  Given my recent puncture, I selected my other arm with a proviso that I haven't been lucky in the past and the IV was given on my hand.  Of course, this information was dismissed and the nurse proceeded to jab me (repeatedly) before resorting to my hand. (No one listens.)

The rest of the procedure was pretty routine.  The contrast experience was a bit concerning; the warm feeling and metallic taste, but this too passed. So I was finally free to leave.  Hope the test results are favorable and I'm allowed to have my first round of BCG next Wednesday.

More to come!