Wednesday, September 26, 2007

The Mysterious Port...

I have received many questions about my port. It's much easier to explain how it works with pictures....so if you get grossed out by needles and blood...Look NO further!

Here is my beautiful port, unaccessed...

It's really not so pretty...I had some problems with the incision healing...turns out there was a stitch that wouldn't dissolve that was causing all the trouble...so now its healed, but still not so pretty...

Prior to going to chemo and getting accessed, I put Emla cream on. This numbs the area so it won't hurt when the needle goes in...Its wonderful stuff...
Here is the needle they stick into the port...
And all the equipment they need to do it...

Here I am, accessed. Once the needle is in, they can draw blood out, and put medicine in. This is why the port is handy....only one stick. I'm looking away because I'm not allowed to breathe on it before a dressing is placed, this keeps germs away!
Fully accessed with the dressing on...
Just chillin', reading my lab results, (ANC=6.6!!! Neulasta worked!) trying not to notice my aunt taking pictures of me...
Hooked up to my pre-meds... (anti-nausea meds)...and chatting on the phone..
Here's my pump that I carry with me for 46 hours, ugh!
Putting my pump into my fanny...
Thats all! And to finish up...here's a pic of my cancer...Hard to see, but it penetrates the whole bowel wall.
So far, the fifth treatment is going well! It helps to have my aunt here distracting me! We shopped a little yesterday (love shopping therapy!), and today we took a long drive and enjoyed the beautiful autumn scenery! Vermont is starting to become even more beautiful! We stopped for a yummy apple cider donut, and window shopped at some craft stores in Stowe! Overall, good day out, which was topped off with a great long nap!
So long everyone....and thanks for reading!


8 comments:

Jcarp82 said...

Hey! Finally got hooked up with a google account and am learning how to do this blogging stuff. I think the site is a great idea and especially like the pics! Hope chemo went well this week and you will be feeling strong enough to enjoy the weekend.

Love,
Jeff

Ps- I think I'm getting squeemish like Dad, a bit scary!

Anonymous said...

Hi Kelly! So glad to be updated. Your Mom tells me that you are enjoying working as a nurse. I am sure you will make a huge difference in many lives. Keep fighting! Marsha

laura said...

Kelly, You are such a trooper and I admire how well you can handle every day! Keep up the great work! I am very proud of you.

Laura

Anonymous said...

I've been to the apple cider donut shop it stowe. It rocks! I love the pix...and i love your cute dress. :) I'm glad you're doing well! Miss you! Lisa

Unknown said...

i like the picture of the plastic diagram...you are such a good teacher!!!

Anonymous said...

By far, you are the cutest cancer patient ever, and a superwoman to be doing this and working. Sending you good vibes from Atlanta. Take Care- Katie

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