Thursday, April 2, 2009

What a busy week. I have been preparing for my surgery and recovery period. It has been a lot of work!

I've dealt with the insurance company to make sure the correct benefits are in place and to nail down the amount of the co-pay.

I've scouted out a walker at the local Salvation Army thrift shop. I found one that looks new for $5.49. I also shopped GW for a robe and a conservative nightie or two. However I was unable to find anything suitable in my size.

Shopped at Marshal's for a pair of new slippers. Picked up a large jar of mixed whole peppercorns and a small container of whole nutmeg as well. I spent $18.49 after my employee discount.

I've been back to the surgeon who reviewed the results of the family doctor physical and pronounced me fit for surgery.

Went back UVA Medical center on Wednesday to have my blood typed and cross matched. The surgeon also wanted the lab to run a clotting profile. I don't do needles well but I do manage to get through these things with a minimum of fuss. I've not had an "episode" for years.
Unfortunately my veins tend to roll and constrict so I'm not the easiest person to have blood drawn. I warned the lab tech that NO ONE had ever gotten blood from the inside of my elbow. Of course she ignored me. Needless to say she got no blood. After the third stick I was hot, sweaty and nauseous. I felt like I was about to faint. I must have been pretty pale because two RNs and a resident appeared like magic with water, cold packs, peppermint and a fan. They kindly placed the trash can by my recliner just in case.
Once I get settled down they decided I would need to return to try to repeat the blood work another day. This is a real bummer. I live an hour and fifteen minutes from this hospital and gas is $1.99 a gallon! My husband will have to miss work as well.

One of the nurses gave me a CD that has a relaxation program on it. She suggested listening to it twice a day. I've been practicing the relaxation exercises. They're very calming.

Bless my husbands heart. The nurse told him they were unable to get any blood and he would have to bring me back. He just grinned and said"I reckon you can't get blood from a turnip!" He's such a sweetheart.
I'm standing there with a bandage on my arm and on my hand. A young fellow sitting near by couldn't help but over hear the conversation. He looked at me and turned white as a sheet. I hope he didn't have a similar problem.

When I removed the bandages there was not one drop of blood on them!

Today I tried to go to the DMV to get the handicapped placard Their computers were down so that chore will have to be moved to next week.

Tomorrow I 'm headed back to UVA.

On Sunday we will celebrate Sam's birthday. He'll be eight years old. I'm giving him a Speed Racer game for his DS. I also have a book of easy to read Bible Stories to give him. My daughter always has a great family party for him.I can't believe how fast time passes. It seems like yesterday I was wrapping birthday presents and making cup cakes to take to school for his mother!

1 comment:

StitchinByTheLake said...

I'm so sorry they couldn't get your blood - that's just miserable. Maybe it will be better next time. blessings, marlene