Wish there was nothing to report, but today yields two new developments. First, I have to have a blood transfusion because my hemoglobin is below 8. Barely though. I’m at 7.8. Second, I’ve started to “scallope.” Meaning, my tongue is developing a white film on it. I have white lines on the sides right now and I have a cottony-taste. Fortunately, no real pain, just discomfort. I feel dry and it tastes yucky. But I’m told, all of this is normal, so I’m on track. Everything is going down and I just keep walking and using my breathing thing to exercise my lungs.
UPDATE: I had the blood transfusion. All went well. They premedicated me with Benadryl which made me light-headed. I stupidly tried to sit up at one point – not a very good idea. Feeling okay at the moment, but usually getting blood makes you feel better because it brings up the red blood cell counts which means your body receives more oxygen.
On a final note, I do have a request. They told me to bring button-up shirts to the hospital, which I did, but I’ve run into a problem. So far I’ve just barely been making it between Andi’s generous laundry trips because several of my shirts do not fit now. Normally, I wear a medium, but I didn’t count on the location difference with my new Hickman or the issue of not wearing a bra because of the location of the new Hickman (sorry if this makes anyone uncomfortable or damages male-sensibilities). I’m going to go on Target online, but it anyone sees long or 3/4 sleeve (it gets cold here) LARGE button shirts, I need some – even freshly, washed used ones would be okay. I can wear hospital gowns, but I’d rather not since they let you wear real clothes. It makes me feel more normal.
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