8-23-10 - updates

So, when I started this blog, I thought I'd update it every day or two... Clearly, I am not that disciplined. 

On the bright side, I haven't posted because life has been busy and almost normal. 

Updates -

The PET scan is very boring.  First they gave me an IV - (harder than it sounds.. ask, and I'll show you the giant bruise on my arm where the nurse blew my vein).  then, I got an injection of sugar labeled with F19 (a radioactive isotope).  I had to sit very still for an hour (not even allowed to read!) and drink some sugar-free kool-aid with some kind of dye that helped them see my digestive system.  The theory is that the radioactivity will collect in the parts of your body that  are using sugar (heart, brain, recently injured areas, and cancer).  After resting for about 45 min, they had me "eliminate the radioactivity" built up in my bladder, then go to the scanner. I got a CAT scan with contrast and then a PET scan.  The scans lasted about 30 min total. I had to lay completely still. Very boring, and a little uncomfortable. The contrast produced the weirdest feeling of heat in my body.  I kept my eyes closed the whole scan so I didn't get too claustrophobic. 

I bought a new tv for my bedroom yesterday! I have been sleeping on the couch, because when I try to go to sleep in the quiet, my brain  just won't turn off long enough for me to fall asleep. The new tv is very cool - it has wifi! I can get facebook, youtube, netflix, and nifty things. And, last night, I slept in my bed for the first time in about 3-4 weeks!

To answer Irina's question - I have dissolvable stitches under the glue, so don't worry about me falling apart.

I have appointments tomorrow with 2 different docs in Oakland.  I am trying to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.  I REALLY hope they have good news for me.