Just Checking In.....

I apologize for not having posted in a few days. Things have been busy! I made it through three long days of my internship this past week. We had our Electronic Record Management System vendor (MedPlus) on site, so we were constantly in meetings all three days. (the meetings for the most part were well over my head). Yesterday we finished up a little early, thank goodness. I will be at my internship 4 days next week, off the next week, then back to 4 days the last two weeks of February. The plan for March is to go 3 days a week, including the last two days of the month. And hopefully, by that time, I will have completed the required hours and assignments. I do like my clinical preceptor and the facility, but I would like to eventually have a routine.

My stomach continues to give me major problems. The intestinal abx is still causing that horrific side effect (diarrhea--at least 6 times a day-sometime as much as 10). Only 2.5 more days of it...yay. I'm still nauseated 24/7 and are taking anti-nausea meds multiple times a day. I am not able to eat much at all, therefore, my energy level is WAY LOW. I barely have any energy...seriously, and are just so exhausted and tired of being nauseated and sick. I've managed to drink some Carnation Instant Breakfast in the mornings, and by some miracle, I can keep it down. However, I'm not able to eat any meals, and when I do eat, it's a minute amount, and only about 2 times during the day. It's extremely hard to eat...and I desperately need some energy. The odd thing is I haven't lost much weight. Which is good on one end...but a little worrisome on the other. I have a follow up GI appointment on February 10th. I had to wait until I finished the H-Pylori meds, before following back up. I know something is wrong, it's just a matter of getting it figured out and getting someone to actually pay attention and take the matter seriously. But enough complaining.....

I've got a lot of school work to complete this weekend and next week! And on another note...my birthday is this coming Wednesday!!! YAY! I'm starting to feel old :)

I'm also working on some Great Strides stuff for our local walk as well as some stuff for my personal team. It's a lot of work being a team leader, and trying to exceed the previous year's goals.

It is extremely cold here in Alabama (although I'm guessing not as cold as some places)...but cold for us. So I've been staying inside for the most part.

I'll update more later...I have a couple of posts I need to do!!

HOPE

"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful." ~ Hebrews 10:23

This year at my church, our theme is Hope. Often, we place our hopes in things or circumstances– our investments, health, jobs, approval of others, finding a spouse, or even on a sports team. “I hope that...” is wishful thinking, creating a scenario where we would be much happier as a result. But for Christians, hope is not a wish. It’s not just a feeling. "Christian hope" is the confident, joyful expectation that God is working both now and in the future for my good and His glory.

Our current study of Hope comes from 1 Peter. It shows us where hope is found and teaches us how to remain faithful in times of difficulties that may otherwise seem overwhelming. There is Hope after Failure. And God often uses broken people to accomplish great things. I thought I would comment a little about this topic, especially from the last couple of weeks (I've missed a couple of sermons in between, but still want to share what I've learned). I think you will find it interesting and comforting. And for CF patients, a lot of times, Hope is all we have to hang on to.

"Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ." ~1 Peter 1:3

So this is just a brief introduction...my next post will be about Hope and how we can rejoice in times of trials!

Music Monday--ON TIME!!!!!

This week's song is "Jesus-Bring the Rain" by Mercy Me...one of my favorite songs! It played on the radio yesterday morning on my way to church.

This song speaks so much truth and really speaks to me now. I really encourage you to listen and watch this video today...the video is awesome too!!



At the beginning of this song, it asks why do we (believers) continue to praise HIM during struggling times? Why do we tend to draw closer to the Lord during the "storm?" Well...because we know God is in control, and everything happens for a reason. This song actually goes along with our church's message yesterday, which I'll be sharing, hopefully, with you tomorrow. God brings the "rain" to test us...to make sure our faith is authentic..to refine our faith. Nothing happens by accident...always for a reason. And if life's pain and struggles is what it takes for us to grow in Christ and praise our Lord and Savior...then.."Jesus-Bring the Rain." One of the lines in the chorus of this song says: "There are days when this life will bring me pain..but if that's what it takes to praise You...Jesus-bring the rain."

I'm struggling, and have been for awhile, with my health and just life in general. We all struggle. But it is comforting to know, that whatever these struggles are, whether its throwing up for 6 hrs, loosing a loved one, divorce, etc....God is using each of these to refine and purify our faith. It is our time to really show Christ that we trust him and give him complete control, not only of our struggles, but of our life. I feel so much better knowing this, and whatever pain or discomfort CF and transplant bring me, as well as just "life," I know it is God working in me!

More comforting news to come later this week!!

HIM?

So...not a lot of people know what my major is and what it all entails. I get questions everywhere I go about HIM (Health Information Management). It's a fairly new field and is quite interesting. It is not just coding...which everyone seems to think. HIM used to be called "Medical Records", but has taken on this new term to include the new world of technology! HIM professionals are in great demand right now and are actually paid really well! This is great field for those who want to be in healthcare, but don't want any direct patient contact. So here is a little bit of information.

“We have been through the decade of health IT –health information technology; we have now entered the decade of health IM - information management". -AHIMA

Health information management is the study of the principles and practices of acquiring, analyzing, and protecting digital and traditional medical information vital to providing quality patient care. HIM professionals are experts in managing health information using both automated (electronic health records) and manual (paper-based records)information systems.

HIM professionals are credentialed by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) as Registered Health Information Administrators (RHIA). This credential requires a bachelor's degree (4 years) and successful performance on the RHIA certification exam. RHIAs are skilled in the collection, interpretation, and analysis of patient data. In addition, they receive the training necessary to assume managerial positions related to these functions. RHIAs interact with all levels of an organization -- clinical, administrative, financial -- that employ patient data in decision making and every day operations.

HIMs also design and maintain health information systems to collect, assess, and disseminate clinical and administrative data. Health care professionals can use the data in education, research, utilization management, quality assessment and improvement, and decision making. Health services administrators utilize the data in financial management, facilities planning, and operational and risk management.

Employment opportunities exist for the health information professional in any industry that utilizes patient data. Health information technology careers are found in a variety of settings including: healthcare facilities (hospitals, clinics, etc.), consulting firms, government agencies, insurance companies, healthcare IS/IT vendors, pharmaceutical companies, as well as many other environments.

Most of you are probably used to seeing a paper chart or medical record. Now, a lot of medical professionals and organizations are moving to what's called hybrid medical records (which is a combination of paper-documents and electronic documents). And some, are trying to move to completely electronic health records. Our number one priority is to enhance patient care. And we are trying to do that by moving to electronic health records or documenting software! I find all of this very interesting, as I love computers (hence my previous major-MIS) and healthcare.

Even though I've decided to go back to nursing school, i know my knowledge in HIM will enhance my nursing career. And when I no longer want to practice nursing, I have my HIM degree to fall back on!

Marcus-RT

So after reading several comments on other blogs I follow about Marcus,an RT,I thought I would venture on over and check his blog out! We've had the chance to exchange several emails to learn a little bit more about each other. I really appreciate his efforts in raising funds for CF. How awesome is that..especially since he has no direct relationship with CF. Respiratory Therapists play such a huge role in the life of a CF patient. And I'm sure at some point during his RT career, he will have the honor of forming some special relationships with some CF patients. RT's are the ones that keep us going while in the hospital....they shake us up :) And during my pre-transplant years, I got to know a lot of RT's and some of them truly made my day by just showing how much they cared about me. They do a lot more than that, and I know it's a tough job! I don't come in contact too much now with RT's post transplant, but have had a few times when I've been on the vent due to pneumonia! Show him so love and go visit his blog!

Also, to help him raise money for CF, he is doing a raffle. Click here to read more about the raffle. (I'm not going to tell you what he's giving away...you must go see for yourself!) Let's help him get started and pass the word along! Thanks for your support Marcus! I look forward to keeping in touch with you!

(Oh..and Marcus passed along another "Lovely Blog" award to me, and I feel honored! Thank you again!! Since I've already passed the blog award to several other people, I'm not going to pass it again!

Candles 4 CF

Some of you may have noticed the addition to my blog on the right: Candles4CF Fundraiser. It is one of the fundraisers I am doing for my Miracles Great Strides Team. I know almost each of my blog followers are raising money for their own personal Great Strides Team. So I don't expect you to buy a candle. But I thought it was a great idea and I always need an extra on-the-side fundraiser to help me meet my goal for my team! Last year I decided to do custom made jewelry, which did extremely well. And i may just decide to do that again. So this candle thing is new....but if anyone is interested, let me know! Here is some more info:

SMALL Candle 2.8” W x 3” H $6

LARGE Candle 2.8” W x 6” H $12

Candle Holder: $3.50

Click on the slide show for up close pictures.

I wish I could donate or buy something from each and every blog, but unfortunately, I can't. But I want you to know that I really wish I could. Being a college student and trying to move out doesn't help the situation :)

Grilling Goodness #14

I got this cute little idea off of
Carrie's Blog. It originated from Tina @ Golden Goodness. This is her Friday Meme, so I thought I would post this on Friday as well! To participate, click here.

1. Do you like scary movies? Yes and No. I can't watch scary movies at the theatre, because I will scream your head off (seriously). If I watch them at home, it really needs to be during the day and I have to have a pillow that I can quickly put in front of my face if needed. I don't like gruesome scary movies. But I do like suspenseful scary movies, if they are really good. I prefer to watch scary movies with another person as well. I watched "The Grudge" this past Sunday. Needless to say, my parents came running into my room twice because I was screaming so loud..haha!! I made it through the movie, only to find out that I have to watch the sequel..blah!!!

2. What kind of cell phone do you have? LG (don't know the model # off the top of my head). It's a small flip phone..sort of an older type phone. My Mom was up for an upgrade and she took advantage of a Buy 1 Get 1 Free deal. So I got the free phone, because my other phone was eventually going to die. And because my Dad still pays my cell phone bill, I don't complain much about my cell phone. Although, I have asked for a new phone for my birthday (which is in about 1 month). And..my Dad told me yesterday that we are switching cell phone services and for me to start looking at phones...yay! (but don't know how much he is willing to spend). I really like the BlackBerry Pearl or the Samsung Blackjack..I think.

3. Do you have a passport? No, but in the process of applying for one for my cruise this summer!!

4. Has anything sad happened in your life this week? Depends on the definition of sad...I guess..sort of. I spent the majority of the day in the ER on Monday. I guess that' sad.

5. Have you ever broken any bones? Yes, when I was 1 years old. I fell off the arm of my couch and broke my wrist.

6. Did you do anything this week that you don't normally do? I started my internship for school. Does that count? And I also threw up until I was dry....never thrown up this much in my ENTIRE life...seriously. You would not believe it if you had seen it for yourself.

7. What's the worst thing you ever had in your wardrobe? Hmm...that's a hard question. I think when I was younger I didn't exactly dress very stylish. In elementary school, I used to wear solid color shirts and shorts, and would wear a different color each day of the week. At that time, it probably wasn't that big of a deal...but that's all I can think of. Oh..also I used to have underwear with the days of the week on them...that's probably pretty bad..lol

8. Did you have braces on your teeth? No, but wish I did.

Virtual CF Education Days

I found this info off of this blog about Nutrition and Fertility issues (for CF patients-males and FEMALES that is). I thought it might interest some of you...I plan on listening in...which I don't normally do. I'm more interested in the fertility info (because yes, I want to have kids if possible).

Adult Nutrition and Fertility Information for People with CF

A Live Virtual CF Education Day Web Cast

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

10 p.m. ET
(9 p.m. CT; 8 p.m. MT; 7 p.m. PT)

The CF Foundation is ringing in the new year with a 3-part Web cast! The live broadcast will be in three sections, each featuring experts with the latest information on CF nutrition and fertility. Questions can be submitted during registration and the live broadcast. The February 3rd Web Cast will feature:

Cathy Seifert, R.D. discussing why nutrition is important for adults with CF

Moira Aitken, M.D., the CF Adult Program Director at the University of Washington, joined by OB/GYN Edith Cheng, M.D. to discuss female reproduction

Urologist Tom Walsh, M.D. and Moira Aitken, M.D. discussing male reproduction

If you are interested, click on the following link and register! Webcasts are archived, so if you can't attend, you can view it later!
http://www.cff.org/LivingWithCF/Webcasts

Internship and Update

Well, I started my internship today..finally!! It went really well (I think). The instructor was running late, so another sweet lady gave me a tour of the department and then some busy work until the director arrived. Once she arrived, it was basically a day full of meetings. I basically just shadowed her all day, which was fine with me! She was very sweet, and I think I'm going to learn a lot. My intention was to work 5 days a week for 6 weeks. Well, after talking with her, I don't think she wants me there that much...bummer. She doesn't want me to come back til next Wednesday. I will shadow her once again next Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. I'm supposed to email her what I want my schedule to be. I'm going to suggest no less than 3 days a week (it will take me 2.5 months to complete 240 hrs if I do 3 days a week). I REALLY REALLY want all of April and May free to concentrate on graduating, and my licensing exam and finals! So we'll see!

The upside to this, is, I really need some rest this week. After Monday's events, I feel exhausted (still), and my body could use a few more low-key days. I'm gonna make sure I study really hard for my other 2 classes in the meantime!

For those of you that are new to my blog and don't know what my major is or what it involves, I have a post that is scheduled for later this week that will inform you of that! But for starters, my major is HIM (Health Information Management) and basically involves everything to do with Medical Records. I am doing my internship at our local Children's Hospital (which is recognized world wide and my former pediatric CF center). They are in the process of implementing an electronic medical record...which if your hospital hasn't yet, it will be in the VERY NEAR FUTURE!! (and on a side note: I saw one of my former CF docs today...so very nice. I knew I would see people I knew, since I basically spent 19 yrs of my life at this hospital. I plan on visiting people while I'm here too).

So...update from Monday: I talked with the GI nurse yesterday afternoon. I really didn't get much info. All she did was call in the 3 medications for the H-Pylori bacteria. So we are hoping and praying that this will take care of whatever is going on. I'm on a bacterial abx, an intestinal abx, and Pepto-Bismol (already taking Nexium). The ER doctor also started me on Potassium and Priolsec. So I just went from taking 8 pills a day to 16 pills a day (and that doesn't include vitamins/minerals like: ADEK, calcium, mag, and iron AND my PRN meds (like sleep meds, and pain meds). It's sad that my stomach is bothering me....and taking all these medications doesn't quite please it :) Oh well. I am also taking some Zofran twice a day to help prevent the nausea! So far so good...not too much nausea today! But I'm still tired and weak feeling.

I did not call my coordinator like I was supposed to....remember me saying I needed time and distance...well, if transplant is not going to deal with GI issues, then I'm not sure if I'm going to call them with every little thing??? Haven't decided yet.

Despite the frustration of all that's gone on the last few weeks....I know God is in control. He's trying to show us or teach us something here...just not sure what quite yet. Monday it felt like Satan was interfering with everything. Last week I finally motivated myself to exercise...i did my exercise bike 3 days (last day being Sunday). Unfortunately, I can't just jump back on it, because my body doesn't work that way. But I've gotta have faith and trust GOD to do his work!

I've read all of your blog updates (most of them)...but are headed to rest for the remainder of the evening!

Wait...one question: Do any of you know (I need facts or experience here...not just thoughts) if Prilosec and Nexium are the same (or basically have the same job)? My Mom was going to call the pharmacist today, but didn't get around to it. And frankly, neither the GI clinic or transplant team are working with me here.

Update

WOW! It has been a LONG and frustrating day. I woke up about 2:30 am this morning nauseated, and unable to go back to sleep. I started throwing up around 3:30 this morning gallons and gallons of junk(abnormal junk). I could not keep any anti-nausea meds down either. I was not able to stop throwing up, and I felt so weak and sick, so I had to call my tx coordinator (which I was trying not to do for awhile considering last weeks events). And believe or not...guess who was the doctor on call this morning...yep, you guessed it (even more frustrating).

They sent me to the ER, but at another connected hospital instead of the main UAB hospital. They said it would be quicker and that I needed to get fluids ASAP. So My mom drove me to the ER, and we did just that. They got me in pretty quick, and gave me a workup. I was still throwing up at this time...my poor body was so weak, shaky, etc. They gave me 2 liters of fluid, and repeated another ultrasound of my stomach. Apparently, the ultrasound looked unchanged from the one a few weeks ago.

My potassium was low due to all the throwing up, so I got IV potassium as well and a supplement to take for 12 days. He also gave me a script for Prilosec to help with some of the acid (although normally is not an issue for me). I was very dehydrated (obviously), and a little anemic (which is normal for me). They gave me IV Zofran, but unfortunately, that didn't help any. Thankfully, after I got home, I was able to keep down an oral Phengran.

The ER discharged me about 1:30 this afternoon. I was shaking so bad and so cold...we weren't sure what was going on. Once I got home, I decided to check my temp, and I had a fever of 101.1 (which is high for me). I took some Tylenol, which helped.

I followed up with my coordinator, and she wants me to follow up with my GI doc in the morning and then call her. MY GI doctor was not in his office today, but my Mom did talk with his nurse. They are concerned that the H-pylori bacteria is still there and wants me to go on another intestinal abx for that. However, I still think something is going on. The nurse thinks that what I was throwing up this morning, was bile from my gallbladder. It was the worst throwing up experience I've ever had, and felt so so sick. I've been so dizzy and lightheaded, that I can't really walk much.

I'm feeling better now, but have not eaten anything, and aren't allowed until tomorrow. I'm on a liquid diet for tonight as tolerable. I'm very weak, and I have a little body, and nothing in it.

Unfortunately, I will not be able to start my internship tomorrow, but are planning on Wednesday, if everything is ok.

Today's events proved more frustration with the transplant team, and frankly, I was glad i was at another ER.

I will update more later...I'm still nauseated and need some rest big time. Thanks for your comments and prayers! I really need them!

And once again...no Music Monday. Sorry!

Nausea

I've been nauseated and throwing up since 3 am this morning...on my way to the hospital now. Please pray! Thanks!

Blog Award

Carrie at Capturing Glimpses gave me this wonderful blog award! She is such a great person and I'm so glad we found each other! She passed this award to some of her newest bloggy friends and asked us to pass it on to some of our new bloggy friends. She says the award was for those who step out of their comfort box and make new bloggy friends! So, I am passing this wonderful award onto the following people:


Emily @ The Mulkeys-a CFer who loves the Lord!

Katelyn Elaine-A Wonderful CFer and friend!

Kori @ My Life as a CFers Wife

Carla @ Learning to Live.
This is a new blog I've started reading, and from what I've read, she seems like an awesome person! So check her blog out if you haven't already!

Picture Tag..AGAIN!!

Ok...so Katelyn ended up tagging me as well for this picture tag, before she knew that I tagged her...LOL! And So I'm going to post another picture and link this post back to her!! Definitely check out her blog...she's an awesome CFer, and I'm so glad we have become friends!!

So for this picture, I drilled into my 2008 folder, and picked the 4th folder, then the 4th picture. So here it is....



This was at My Dad's b'day last year in June!

I'm not going to tag anyone else, since this tag has made itself around the blogging community already :)

Hidascan Results

So I talked with my coordinator just a few minutes ago. And apparently, the results from the Hidascan were normal. She faxed the results over to my GI doctor, and hopefully I'll be getting a call from them soon! Not sure where to go from here. I'm glad the scan was normal. However, the ultrasound was not. And my nausea keeps getting worse and worse, and I'm only able to eat small amounts of food at one time! I'm taking anti-nausea meds pretty much everyday now and sometimes multiple times a day. I'm guessing he'll be ordering more tests...but not sure! I'll keep you updated!

On another subject...my coordinator and I just had a big blowout discussion about the events surrounding this doctor and my care! It was a good blowout...but it's going to take some magic to repair this relationship with this doctor and right now my family and I feel it's best to separate ourselves from the transplant team for awhile with time and distance unless an emergency arises! Please continue to pray...this situation has turned into a much bigger one than expected and I hate it. Unfortunately, its going to involve more people than I want. I'm not this type of person..I don't ever talk about other people unless something or someone has really made me mad. I know God will take care of it all and has the situation in his hands!

Picture Tag

Carrie @ Capturing Glimpses tagged me to do this picture tag thing! Here were the instructions: post the 4th picture in my 4th folder and explain it....so here it is:


I have a LOT of folders on my computer filled with pictures. So I picked my 4th folder to the right which is Auburn Pics (which contains pics of my brother at Auburn). The 4th picture in this folder is of my brother and his SERIOUS girl friend (who I love). I think they were at the Georgia Aquarium! My brother doesn't know this--but I get on his facebook page and download pictures that he or his friends post of my brother and his friends, etc. I do this because I'm going to do a scrapbook of my brother's college years and Auburn..and I think in the future he will appreciate this. My brother is 21 (will be 22 in Feb) and is a junior at Auburn. His girlfriend, Christy, is a sweetheart...and I hope they stay together for ever!

So now my instructions are to tag 4 others to do the same. Here are your instructions: Go to your 4th folder where you store your photos.
Select your 4th picture (no exceptions)!
Post the picture with an explanation and link it back to your tagger.
Tag 4 people to do the same!! (if you end up getting tagged twice--sorry! I'm a little late at doing this post)

So I tag.....

Brandi

Emily

Katelyn Elaine

The Brooks Family

B'ham CF Walk

If any of my blog readers/followers are local and are not involved in a CF Great Strides Walk and are interested in participating...please let me know!! Thanks!

It's Over!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YAY!! The Hidascan is over!! It wasn't as bad as I was anticipating. There were 2 parts to the test. The 1st part lasted an hour, and took pictures of my liver. Radioactive dye was injected into my liver to get a better picture. After that, the technician gave me about a 10 minute break before begging the 2nd portion of the test. This part lasted about 40 minutes and was intended to measure the retractability of my gallbladder (whatever that means). It also involved another substance being injected into my bloodstream.

My back did pretty well. It started getting really achy near the end of the 1st portion, but after the break, it was ok. I also took some Ultram before I arrived this morning (even though I was NPO). I also took a Phenegran before arriving to help with my nausea...and I was glad I did. Because while in the waiting room, I had a horrible bout where I thought I was going to throw up. But the Phenegran kicked in and relieved that feeling.

They were not able to use my port :( At one point they had a lady that was going to come access it, but they didn't have the correct needle to do so. So after 2 trys for an IV...a nurse from Oncology/Radiology was successful.

The Nuclear Medicine Technician was also sweet and checked on me every few minutes (which I liked).

So now we just wait for results. I know you can view the results right away, so if I don't hear anything by Thursday morning, I'm going to call!

Well...I'm eating leftovers right from last night (pizza from Mellow Mushroom...yummy)...and then have a few things lined up for this afternoon!

Hidascan Rescheduled

My Hidascan has been rescheduled for the 4th time for tomorrow morning at 8am. Please pray for a smooth and quick procedure and that they are willing and able to use my port for IV access. Thanks!

Sorry about no Music Monday post today...maybe I'll do one tomorrow! It's been a long and stressful weekend with LOTS of thinking and praying going on! Thank you for all your comments and prayers!! I love you all! I have not yet called my transplant coordinator to discuss this weekend's events, and probably won't until Thursday, when I'll be fishing for Hidascan results! This doctor's conversation(s) this week/end has really hit me hard, and I'm having a hard time dealing with what he told me and how he made me out to be someone who I'm not.

I'll update tomorrow after the test!

Goin Home

So I just got done seeing the doctor...and I'm getting out of this place. And lets just say that this doctor and I had a very awkward conversation, and once again made me want to cry. I'm going to go home, have a good cry, pray and really ask God to lead me in the right direction concerning my care. Please please pray for me right now...I could really use it. I'm not going to go into details here, because some of this information needs to remain confidential. I use this blog as a way to vent things in addition to its other purposes. So this post if more of a vent post!! Sorry.

I hope everyone has a great rest of the weekend...I'll post again later!

Bored

I'm still waiting to see the doctor. I'm bored...so thought I would post. I didn't sleep last night and are bored out of my mind. One of the nurses from our transplant floor came up earlier this morning to visit, and I decided to walk back down with him to visit some of the other nurses. I think I spent about 1.5 hrs down there..nice break! Since I'm on this particular unit, i'm not hooked up to the heart monitor and have free roam...which i guess is nice. I still want to either be home or on my home hospital unit. One of my nurse friends also went and got me some yummy chinese food. She should be back any minute....yay!!

I saw a resident that I guess works with my on-call transplant doctor earlier this morning. He said my sputum grew out the usual gram-negative rods, and the Cipro should take care of that. Then he proceeded to say that we may want to keep you one more day...WHAT??? If you keep me...then you better actually be doing something. Otherwise, there is no point in being here just to be watched!! So we'll see what the doc says...if he ever decides to come around.

So since I couldn't sleep last night, I decided to go ahead and submit my undergrad degree application. So yay!! That's submitted, and if I can just pass this semester..I'll be doing good. I proceeded to calculate my GPA to see what it would be if I made all A's this semester. AND...if I can and succeed at making all A's...I will graduate with a 3.7 GPA, which qualifies for magna cum laude!! So that's my goal!!

Well...that's about all I have to say! I did get pretty sob walking around...but hopefully that's just because I've been pretty still the last day or two. Also..techinically I finish the Cipro on Monday...so we'll see what the doctor says.

Laters!

Update

Sorry it's taken so long for an update. I just got my computer a little while ago. I did get admitted last night through the E.R. I think I got up to a room about 2:00 this morning. HOWEVER--I have to say that the whole ER experience was not that bad. We arrived about 6:30 last night. I signed myself in and they verified my name and SSN. Then the sweet guy told me to be patient that they had a full ER and about a 12-inch thick of people(papers) before me. So i went and sat down amongst the sick, gross, and no insurance people. About 2 minutes later, they called me back to triage. After that, I think we waited in the waiting room for about 10 or 15 minutes. Then they called me back to an exam room. I was in the exam room a LONG time, but at least I had a bed, TV, and more importantly, away from all the sick people. Somehow, I got pushed in front of everyone which was great. The nurse I had was so sweet too. After the usual work-up (labs, xray, iv, etc.) they decided to go ahead and admit me. My xray was clear and they did this more as a precautionary measure more than anything. They did give me fluids, as my labs indicated I was dehydrated.

The frustrating part was waiting around all day today to actually see the doctor and get orders in. I didn't get any food until about 4:00 this afternoon, because the admitting doctor failed to put in an order. Finally, about 3:30 this afternoon...Dr. Y (the one we don't like) came by. I was really dreading this after yesterday's situation. He pulled up a chair and basically made me feel like an idiot and acted like I was making all this up. He asked stupid questions, and I really just wanted to cry. I did what I was told to do, and yet I have a doctor that in reality, doesn't seem to care. I talked with my coordinator this morning and after the doctor came in, and she said we made the right decision, considering my fever and shortness of breath. ( I literally could not breathe yesterday). While nothing serious is going on with my lungs(at least not on paper), we aren't sure what is causing me to spike these fevers and other symptoms. This doctor doesn't feel the need to do anything, and more than likely will discharge me tomorrow. And let's just say that me and my family will not have anything to do with this doctor ANYMORE...and I'll make sure of that. He's humiliated me, made me want to cry, and frankly is lazy and doesn't want to put any effort towards figuring out what's wrong. I have put on a happy face, had a conversation with my coordinator (who will be handling things from here on out),and talked with my parents. This has gone on long enough. I guess he's just old and worn out in his career. (and just so you know..I'm not the only patient that has issues with him).

I did miss my GI test this morning. And during my conversation with my doctor, he proceeded to say that they could have sent me down for it if he had known. BLAH!!!! I told everyone and paged everyone I could think of to actually get something done...and he says that??? I guess he is just burned out with his job and doesn't care. I'm just the patient...and all I want is answers and to feel better. That's all I'm asking. Don't humiliate me, make me feel like an idiot, and question someone else's decision. My coordinator said she would have told any of her other patients to do the same thing.

My coordinator (who is the best in the world)...is going to take care of everything and reschedule my GI test (for the 4th time) for next week. Hopefully my body will decide to behave for the next couple of months so I can get this internship out of the way and concentrate on school!

And from here on out...(after tomorrow)...I will have no association with this doctor. Thank you all for your comments and prayers. While I'm feeling better, I'm not 100%. But needless to say, I'm basically sitting in a hospital bed doing nothing. No medications, tests, treatments, etc. And to top things off...our normal transplant floor was full, so I'm on the pulmonary/cf floor...which is the germiest of all floors!! On the plus side, I'm not hooked up to any monitors and have free roam of the hospital if I want it. But considering my severely suppressed immune system, I think the best thing is to stay in the room.

I'll update again tomorrow with the official discharge words!

Headed to the dreaded E.R....

Well...because my doctor (yes, the one I don't like) just now called my coordinator back...I have 2 options. If I want to get checked out I can either go to the E.R. or wait until tomorrow to start IV abx. But here's the catch: The doctor won't even see me tomorrow unless I go to the E.R. My coordinator really wants me to get checked out. My breathing has been really bad today and my temp has gotten up to 102. Normally (when all the other 4 docs are on call), we have an outpatient room on our transplant floor where we can go to get checked out. I've always been able to go here when needed. But this particular doctor is being a pain in the you know what. So even if I wait until tomorrow...he still won't see me...and I need to be checked out. I may just have the crud (hopefully)...but it could be worse. And we won't know for sure unless I make a trip to the dreaded E.R....and believe me UAB's ER is awful...I've only been once--and vowed to never return unless i was literally knocking at death's door. While I'm not knocking at death's door...this is the only way to get checked out. So wish me luck..hopefully I'll get through quickly...and either return home or be admitted.

I won't have a computer with me...so there won't be an update until tomorrow at least. And I'm not sure whether I will make my GI test in the morning or not...I'm guessing not, but I'm going to do everything in my power to make it :)

My sputum culture was successful...but have to wait for results in order to start me on iv abx..but of course now that doesn't really matter.

I'm waiting on my Mom to get home from work..then we will take off. Thank goodness for wonderful parents and for being close to my transplant center.

Oh..my Dad is sick too...so that doesn't help! I'm guessing we've shared a few bugs over the last week or so!

Happy 1st B'day Gwyneth

While I didn't take a picture, I did wear pink today in honor of Gwyneth's 1st b'day. She is such a miracle baby! Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!

The scoop...iv abx

Yesterday, I slept about 20 out of 24 hours. I felt really bad and could not control my nausea unless I was drugged with phenegren. I also was having a hard time breathing. This morning I woke up with a fever of 101.2 (which is really high for me). I called my coordinator, and she just got through talking with the doctor. They want me to start on IV abx...ugh! I'm already on 2 oral abx, so that's my only choice. I have to do a sputum culture, and take it to the lab to see what abx I'm sensitive to, so they can choose the best iv abx to put me on. So for however long it takes, I'm going to be trying to cough up junk!! Wish me luck(i know that sounds gross...sorry). I'm not sure if I'm going in the hospital, or just going to do home iv abx...we'll see! More than likely it will be home abx..because the so-called doctor on call...is (as we all know) my least favorite.

Hidascan

My GI test (Hidascan) is rescheduled for Friday morning at 8:30. YAY...not really though :) Please say a prayer that the test will go smoothly. I'm not worried about results and will be happy to finally get something done about my stomach issues. This is a test to look more closely at my gallbladder. And according to what everyone is saying, if it shows gallbladder trouble like the ultrasound, then more than likely the gallbladder will come out.

I'm very nervous about the test. The test can take up to 2 hours...and that's bad news for my back, since i have serious back pain. I'm usually in tears when tests that long are over, because my back is hurting so bad. Also, this test involves IV contrast. Please pray that they are able and willing to use my port for IV access. I don't have any available veins for peripheral IV's and don't feel like being tortured to find one. Also, please pray for my nausea. I will be NPO after midnight, and I have not had one day this week without nausea. My coordinator is letting me take a phenigren that morning prior to the procedure, so hopefully that will help!

Thanks! I will update when I know the results. I'm going to try and schedule the follow-up appt with my GI doctor next week!!

Prayers for Kori

If you do not follow Kori's blog...go ahead and check it out. Her husband, Richard, has CF and has been battling cancer as well for a couple of years. Kori recently discovered lumps on her breast and had some tests done today. And there is a very good chance it's cancer! This is going to be tough, as her husband is basically just living, waiting for the cancer to take him home to Heaven, and they have two young boys as well. Please pray for her and send her some love. I know she can definitely use it! She lives near me and we've had the chance to meet once or twice...and she's an awesome woman!

Through with Photo

Today was my last "unofficial" day of my photo sessions. I said my goodbyes...well, sort of. I am done with it at least until my internship is over, and more than likely for good. As I've said before though, since I'm technically quitting this on my own, I will submit my body to needed testing to make sure NOT doing photo isn't doing more damage than harm! I've had my share of this treatment, and I'm ready to be done with it...for good!

I didn't sleep well last night and my photo sessions leave me feeling pretty tired. So I will probably try and go to bed early tonight! My coordinator and I did decide on Monday to go ahead and start me on a 2nd oral antibiotic to help kill this infection! So hopefully the combination of the two abx, and no photo, will leaving me feeling pretty good for the internship!!

Still waiting to hear when my GI test is rescheduled for. They wouldn't let me reschedule it myself (although I've already done it once)...so had to turn it over to my transplant coordinator to see if she can schedule it for me (which would be quicker than calling my GI doctor who actually ordered it)...It's a complicating situation. I'm hoping I will be able to get it done on Friday, and return to my GI doctor next week before my internship starts.

Labs from yesterday were about the same as clinic last week: WBC count: 2.9, HCT: 28, Creatnine: 0.8. My calcium and potassium levels were a below the minimum normal value..so I'm gonna make sure I take my calcium this week and try to eat a few foods with potassium in them. My calcium levels are ALWAYS WAY ABOVE normal...so not too worried about the low level today. But my potassium levels (like Magnesium) frequently drop...and to avoid having to get IV potassium...I'm going to try and resolve it on my own.

School starts back officially for me tomorrow....although my professors probably won't begin assignments until Monday...or at least that's what I'm hoping!

Oh..and I finally ordered the "Sick Girl Speaks" book and are excited to begin reading it tonight!

Music Monday-Alvin and the Chipmunks

In honor of the new released movie, "Alvin and the Chipmunks," I have chosen their famous "Hula Hoop-Christmas Song" for my Music Monday Post.

My parents and I watched the new movie Saturday night. It was very cute, and well-worth taking the time to watch it. The DVD also contains a special feature detailing the history of the Chipmunks. The Chipmunk idea started in 1958 (well before I was born). However, they continued into the late 80s and early 90s. When I was a little girl (2-4yrs old) I had all 3 Chipmunk dolls. According to my parents, they were like a security blanket to me, especially Theodore. I had to have him wherever I went and whenever there was trouble (meaning sick, etc.). I vaguely remember watching the TV cartoon of the Chipmunks, but really have no recollection of having the Chipmunk dolls.

My Mom likes to tell a story of when I was about 3 or 4 yrs old. I had busted my chin open at daycare and had to go to the doctor to get stitches. Instead of crying for Mommy or Daddy (who were right there with me), I cried for Theodore!!! I had to have him to comfort me. My Mom said that my pediatrician kept asking who is Theodore!! How funny!!!

I'm sure many of my blog readers remember the Chipmunks a little better than me and probably even had their record when they were younger (like my Mom). If you haven't seen the movie yet, I highly recommend it. It's a movie for the entire family. And as the history and making of the movie indicate, this movie was intended to reach all age groups; but, help bring back the memories of the Chipmunks for those now in their 20s (like me...although my memory of them is extremely small). ENJOY!!!

(Oh...there are several other songs the Chipmunks produced, like "The Witch Doctor", in which they sing in the movie as well. The opening song in the movie, is the theme song from American Idol last year and is very fun to listen and watch! So I had to include it too...so double Music Monday!!

Still here....

Sorry I haven't posted any more this week. Although, as I have noticed, a good many of the blogs I follow haven't posted much over the last few weeks either.

Our Internet was down for 2 days (Thursday and Friday)...and I seriously thought I was going to go crazy. I have realized that I love my high speed-cable Internet dearly. Luckily, the Charter guy fixed it on Saturday. We do have an AOL dial-up account, so I was able to check email...but it's kind of a pain to use dial-up.

Anyway....I'm feeling a tad better. The fevers are gone, but I'm still feeling pretty crummy. I'm very tired, weak, and SOB. More than likely I will get a 2nd oral abx tomorrow to help knock this infection out for good. The problem is though, that over the last year or so, I am only sensitive to 1 oral abx...Cipro. That's why I usually end up in the hospital with pneumonia--because the oral abx won't work. But I have a good feeling that this infection won't turn into that. We'll see.

I have many appointments next week: Photo on Monday and Tuesday morning; a graduation advising appointment Thursday morning; and my rescheduled Hidascan test for sometime next week as well. I will post with updates from those later in the week!

I'm very tired and nauseated...AND it's raining outside. So I think I'm gonna nap...perfect conditions!

Happy 2009 to everyone and I wish you all the best! I hope your 1st weekend of the new year is going great! Don't forget to check out my Music Monday post tomorrow (already have it scheduled to post)! I also have a post I want to do on this morning's church sermon!!