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gurneys's avatar
gurneys
Member
10 years ago

Half way point

So yesterday I had my third round of chemo which brings me to my halfway point. 3 rounds of FEC down now 3 rounds of T to go.

Due to the vein inflammation in my right arm following my last round, they decided to use my left arm this time despite it being the side of my operation and lymph node removal. Problem is, my right arm surrenders its veins quite nicely, left side not so much. And I am a serious needle phobic. First nurse started by heating up my hand and flicking away at my veins. This was enough to start me bawling. I think I spooked her. So she asked another nurse to come over instead. She managed to get the needle into the vein on the back of my hand but it didn't stop stinging even after 5 minutes. So she opted to remove that and try for the vein on the inside of my elbow instead. That was enough to send me into hysterics.

To the nurses involved, I do apologise for being such a wuss with needles. I try my best to control it but I just can't. To the other patients in the room who were quietly meditating through their chemo sessions, I also apologise for ruining your peace. And to the new lady next to me who had just arrived before all this started, her first chemo session, nervous and not knowing what to expect, I apologise for you having to witness that. I know I upset you and made you more nervous than you needed to be. I tried turning away from you so that you didn't see my tears but I heard you crying next to me. I'm so very, very sorry. But good news is when it was your turn to have the needle you took it like a trooper. Not a sound, not a wince. You, my dear lady, are my hero.

Picc line for me for the next three treatments.

1 Reply

  • I too am half way! 3 FEC down 3 D to go... well done for that!

    It's hard for me too as my veins are usually a no show on my left arm, the right is out of bounds! Luckily I have only had one 'blow out' and the nurse at least had the sense to call for a more senior nurse to continue...which she did without even a pinch!

    We all have our things, mine is getting that cannula in! My hands sweat and I hold my breath! Don't feel bad about being upset....we are going through an awful lot and we are entitled to lose it every now and then.

    Best wishes for the rest of your treatment.

    Sending love and light for easy recovery and beautiful days.

    Xx

    Tracy