I had been watching the weather hoping the snow would not interfere with my getting to my last treatment of BCG. It began snowing yesterday and snowed lightly all night long before turning to rain/sleet. My appointment was earlier today (9AM) so I set the alarm earlier to allow myself time to clear the driveway. All night long I could hear the plows/sanders/salters zooming. Safer roads are the goal, but really: truck after truck spreading salt? I guess those drivers want to rake in that cash so they have to get those miles. I digress.
We got a little more than an inch, but it was very heavy and sticky. I started my car and cleared the driveway and the sun came out. Very picturesque. Very much the New England Christmas post card scenery. I welcomed the sun and the beauty that nature can be. Got in my car and trekked to my appointment. Traffic understandably, was light.
When I arrived at Northeast Urologic, there was only one patient in the waiting room and he was chatting with one attendant. The other open window was manned, but I guess I had to wait until I was worthy enough to be called: next.
I first gave some seasonal tidings to break the ice, then provided my name and reason for my visit. Donna looked at her screen and said, "Yes, you are here to see Torri". She asked me to verify my information then collected my co-pay. She provided a specimen jar and dismissed me.
I provided the sample and returned to the waiting room. I was the only one sitting there. After a few minutes a medical professional with folder in hand,yelled out,'Robert". I looked around and no one was there. She called the name again then left. Strange.
A few minutes later, Donna looked at me and said, "You were called. Didn't you hear it?" I said I heard Robert. The same professional returned and this time called out Richard. I mentioned that she had just called Robert. She said, "I did?" as in disbelief.
Well I was grilled for my information and was bought to yet another examination room I hadn't graced with my presence. She went through her spiel and indicated that Torri would be with me shortly.
Not long after Torri arrived and after my saying Merry Christmas, she extended her hand (palm up), I thought she wanted a shake and a flattened high five, so I awkwardly slapped her palm. She said, jokingly, "No gift. Just a hand shake?" Not that I had anything to give her, but I felt kind of dumb.
Torri did her thing and within minutes I was done. She really is good. I told her that she needed a raise. She said, "Tell them out there". I did say I will mention her to the Doctor the next time I see him.
Drove home and started my marination. Didn't quite make the two hours. I just couldn't stand the discomfort anymore so, I got up and voided.
You seem to forget until it all comes back. Then reality becomes crystal clear.
I immediately took two pyridium, but it wasn't long before I was making very frequent trips to the toilet. Like other third rounds, the side effects pulled no punches. Every visit, I feel all my lymph nodes scream as if they were on fire. This has always been the most unpleasant part. I'm hoping the pyridium kicks in because it does help. But going every 5-10 minutes with very little output and great pain just ain't fun.
At this point, I'm foggy and feeling very blah. I can't even doze off without needing to go.
This was expected, and this too will pass. Just not a favorite way to celebrate Christmas. But it sure beats the alternative.
More to come!
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