Took Deb in to get her lab tests on Tuesday as a result of reporting to Dr. Yaffe that she has been very tired, pale, incoherent, and increase in confusion for last several days after chemoembolization treatment a week ago. I came home early from work today because her voice sounded very shaky on the phone.
As I began reviewing the results of her tests online Tuesday night, I noticed calcium level was normal at 9.3 which blew my theory as to thinking her calcium level was high and was related to the symptons she has been experiencing. At the same time, I received a call from nurse indicating her Hematocrit was low (22.4, Standard Range=37.0-47.0%) and so was Hemoglobin (HGB) at 7.3 (Standard range=12.0-16.0 g/dl). She also said that Dr. Yaffe will be calling first thing in the morning with instructions on taking her in for blood transfusion. It is such a welcome relief when there is a break thru understanding of root cause of Deb’s symptons and explains everything. I just hate that Deb went almost an entire week before diagnosed.
We have been at Northside hospital since noon today and first pint was not ready until 530pm. Had to keep poor Deb awake in the Infusion center the whole time and know it was miserable since she has not been awake for 5 hours during the day for quite some time. Before then, they wanted to send us home on one pint and come back tomorrow for remaining 2 pints. I am learning from friends fast. I just told them was not an option to come back in her current state tomorrow and that I was just going to check Deb in the ER downstairs to get the other 2 pints as soon as they finish the first pint. That approach was successful and Infusion center supervisor even felt so bad that she helped me expedite admitting Deb. Thank you Lynn!
When they finally got the first pint going, the supervisor personally escorted Deb into her private room so she could lie down and rest during the remaining transfusion which made all the difference.
At 10pm, just finished the second pint (A Positive) now (1.5-2hrs per pint) and sitting here watching the last remaining pint go effortlessly into Deb’s body. Deb is resting well and color looks much better. Last pint should be done by midnight so we can go home and Deb can return to her much loved nest.
I am hoping she will be a new woman tomorrow morning as result of this transfusion tonight and return her back to her normal quality of life.
KTS and love to all,
Rod
Our love just keeps on growing...James Taylor
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