Monday, September 15, 2008

Bahama Momma

Hello from the Bahama's,

Paul & I hopped in a cab this morning and headed over to the I.T.L. clinic to start my first day of immune therapy. We waited around for a while and chatted with a few patients that are receiving treatments as well. Paul noticed how happy & healthy everyone looked.
A nice guy named Gareth was there with his Mom and spoke to us about his journey outside the Hospital world. Gareth came to Freeport in November to get help, he is from South Africa. He couldn't walk, was 40 pounds lighter & looked very ill. Gareth was the picture of health as he stood in front of us and shared his story. It was absolutely encouraging.

Our meeting with Dr. Clement was wonderful & made me feel so comfortable. He spoke with us in detail about my Vaccine. The whole time I was nervously waiting for "The shots!" I finally blurted out...O.k. great, can we get the shots out of the way! He brought out frozen viles filled with my Magic Potion. I lied down and he showed me...yes on me...how to give the injections in my groin. WAIT!!!! Let me think about this for a second. Can't I just drink it...save the needles for someone else?
It didn't hurt...I just can't watch. My reaction to this is the same every time. I see the needle....I cry, I cry & cry & cry. And then after 30 seconds (a lifetime) it's over and I didn't feel a thing.

I then dried my eyes and Paul & I headed down the hall to start my first Vitamin C IV. I was happy doing this because I know it will help boost my immune system. Then I realized I was about to get another needle, Niagara Falls. Shaking my leg and gripping my shirt, I cringed until it was in. An hour later I was out the door, drying my tears and patting myself of the back.

The countdown begins :
40 more shots, 12 weeks to go

Tomorrow my lovely husband and I are going to plop down on the beach and blend in with 20 other couples, newly married.

Lot's of love,
Bahama Momma Michelle

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Sending lots of positivity from CSH!!! Needle shots now...tequila later.