Thursday 2nd July
So, I had to have another 2 units of blood on Thursday, fortunately this was in the Chemo Department amongst the staff that I see as my second family and I know are experts in their field.
This was not without issues though, firstly I was so weak it took several attempts to get me from my wheelchair to the chair/bed. I just didn't have the strength in my arms to stand up again. Eventually with the help of 3 Nurses and a Rotastand patient turner we manged to install me in the chair. However, I was so worried I might need a wee that I didn't have a drink all afternoon.
The second and more concerning issue was that they just could not find a vein to cannulate me.
With an Hb of just 72g/l meant my circulatory system was so shut down only the large vein on the inside of my right arm was suitable. It took 4 Nurses of different ranks and about 7 attempts but Senior staff nurse Jo was eventually triumphant, although I am now left with a huge blackcurrant coloured bruise on my arm.
Normal results for adults vary, but in general are:
- Male: 13.8 to 17.2 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or 138 to 172 grams per litre (g/L)
- Female: 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL or 121 to 151 g/L
Fortunately the 2 units gave me the energy to transfer myself from the bed/chair to the wheelchair and then to the car and loo (somewhat urgently) when I got home. Thank goodness for Tena Lady.
Friday 3rd July
Today I decided to have a rest day to recover from the previous day. I did have a short bout of diarrhoea but after an Immodium tablet I managed to sleep for much of the day. Mentally I felt really well but exhausted. At least I managed the short walk to and from the loo a few times without any mishaps.
Saturday 4th July
Today has been dubbed as Independence Day or Super Saturday. The Government have lifted some travel restrictions to allow foreign travel,allowed the opening of pubs, restaurants, tourist attractions and hairdressers. It is feared by the scientific experts that people will see it as a complete relaxation of lock down and see social distancing as a thing of the past. Our MS Charity shop was allowed to open today on a 4 in 4 out policy but photo's of the pub across the road at just 11.15 (opened at 12 noon) showed customers queuing shoulder to shoulder waiting to get in.
As for me I feel more unsteady than yesterday, but I made the effort to get dressed and have a poached egg on toast and some fruit (strawberries and blackberries from Ron's allotment) so he will be happy.
I also thought updating my blog whilst I have a little bit of strength (but a lot of tremor in my hands) would be a good idea. I may not feel like it for a few days now.
I also intend to pack an overnight bag in case I need to be admitted for more blood transfusions, at least the risk of Covid19 has reduced in the hospital - although with the idiots out today may well undo all the hard work lock down has done.
Thank you for being there and reading this, I will update again when I feel stronger.
Toodle pip for now,
Jennie xx
