Rocky Start on Two

Well, things can't always go as planned.  But it could have been worse, so we're okay with this day we've had...

First IV... Swelling begins

The 7-8 hour day turned into a 10 hour day.  Rob's nurse, Cheryl, was great!  She got the IV into his left arm with one try, and started with the saline drip, then the extra water flush to protect his kidneys prior to the actual chemo.  After a little while, his vein shut down, evidenced by swelling in the area where the fluids would no longer pass through his 'angry' veins.  I can't say I blame those blood carriers of his  --  they've been through the wringer lately.

So, on the first try again, Cheryl started IV number 2 lower in his arm.  Rob then had both of the anti-nausea drips going in.  And his vein shut down again.  So the nurse started IV number 3 in Rob's right hand, getting it on the first try.  They started the first chemo drug drip, and within minutes, his vein shut down.  Really.  Thankfully, we were all keeping smiles on our faces, with the exception of the quick grimaces as the new needle entered each time.  

Third IV...Swelling

Then, the second nurse who was helping in the short stay/infusion area today, put in IV number 4 higher up in Rob's right arm.  He was able to take the remaining first chemo drug, and the second chemo drug, and the large bag of the water flush with only some minor pain, which was relieved when they wrapped his arm in warm blankets to relax the veins and quicken the flow.  Whew!!!  

Fourth IV... Thumbs up!

They told us that this is what chemo does to the veins.  We were asking about the port, and they told us if they continue to have problems, that the oncologist will have to put in an order for one.  Rob's still not sure about another surgery, but that may change if our appointments continue as they have.  I was stressed, I can only imagine how Rob was feeling.  Although, he is a gentle soul, and takes things, takes life, in a more laid back way than the stressy female typing this.  I am trying to be better, but my balancing skills aren't what they used to be.  I am tired.


We arrived back home and Rob fell on the bed into a deep sleep for a couple of hours, just waking a few moments ago... for a couple of reasons no doubt:  dinner is almost done, and American Idol starts in 14 minutes!  :)  And he's still cracking corny jokes, so please know that he's doing very well!

My Gentle Giant
♥

His thinking patterns are a little scrambled, but this is common after the treatments.  We've been told all his symptoms will probably keep progressing as the treatments build up in his body.  We're trying to prepare for that.

We want to thank you for the prayers that are continually surrounding us.  They got us through this day in a good way... and I only had one major meltdown.  Hey, that's progress lately.  But really and sincerely, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

I'll try to update again in a few days and let you know how Rob's handling this latest assault/treatment that we are so thankful to be receiving.  

We are so blessed!

In Love and In Peace,

Cheri ♥