Sunday, March 29, 2009

Lumbar Puncture

On Friday I had my Lumbar Puncture done in Radiology after a failed attempt in the IPOP (In Patient-Out Patient) Clinic on Thursday. By Lumbar Puncture I mean just that - by using a long, small gauge needle, fluid was extracted from my spinal column to see if the leukemia has spread to my spinal cord and brain. A small amount of a chemotherapy called Methotrexate was injected into my spine. As of this writing I don't have the cytology report, but probably will by Monday. I'm not sure if this procedure will have to be repeated or not. The procedure itself was rather unpleasant, but not horrible. I was given Activan that helped to relax me, but was awake through the procedure. After laying flat on my back for 2 hours I was released. I spent the rest of the day in bed sleeping and watching TV with only a minor headache and a little nausea.
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3 comments:

  1. AnonymousMarch 30, 2009 at 12:03 PM

    I love how you talk about this procedure like it was a walk in the park. i envy your bravery, truly I do. you never stop making me proud through this gma bev! love you.

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  2. RoxanneMarch 30, 2009 at 6:12 PM

    Bev,
    As Sammy noted above, you are incredibly brave and being able to document your experience is quite impressive! I will be following along as you progress through this difficult journey and keeping you in my thoughts. i hope that the results of the lumbar puncture were encouraging.

    Just last week, my dad was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia which was a huge shock to my family. Apparently it is very slow growing and, at age 85, they are going the wait and see route. Naturally, I am worried but hoping for the best for him and for you.

    I will make a point to stop over to see you sometime soon if you're up for it.

    Big hugs,
    Roxanne

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  3. Donna CroffMarch 31, 2009 at 8:59 AM

    Yesterday I went to have my blood drawn and I then mailed it back to Johns Hopkins. What a hassle that was! Most labs will not draw blood for other people to test. Something about "liability reasons". Even my doctor's office said no. Anyway, I got it done.
    In two weeks we will know if I'm a match and hopefully by the end of this week we will have the results on Carolyn's test. Brad gets his blood drawn April 2nd.
    Just remember Bev, you have a lot of people pulling for you. You are fortunate to have so many people who love you and I love you too!
    Donna

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