PET scan and port-a-cath surgery

Well...it's been a busy week already!  Yesterday I had the PET scan (positron emission tomography).  It went really well.  They put in an iv and then had me drink 16 ounces of "lemonade", then they introduce the tracer in the iv.  I got to take a 45 minute nap (sorely needed) to help the tracer circulate throughout my body.  Then, I got to drink 16 more ounces of the lovely lemonade they provide.  Refreshing beverage!  No, it's really not that bad.
After a quick stop in the restroom I hopped onto the scanning bed (on my back this time!) and snuggled down into the headrest with a nice leg rest under my knees and warm blankets on top of me.  It was a 20 minute test.  The bed moves back and forth 3 times.  I imagined I was at Disneyland on an incredible new ride.  I was tempted to open my eyes but that would have ruined the illusion.  I didn't want to have had a little panic attack.  They certainly don't make those machines very large.  I guess I am a little claustrophobic!  The key for me is keeping my eyes closed and practicing my yoga breathing!!!  
The purpose of the PET scan was to rule out any other cancer in my body.  Really praying that is so!


I had my port-a-cath placed today.  It was an outpatient surgery and it went well.  It will be very helpful in receiving treatments.  The other option is to get an iv each time.  Since treatment will last 16 weeks I opted for the port.  It is placed under the skin near my collarbone.
When I saw my surgeon (who is awesome by-the-way!) before the surgery he said my PET scan was clear except for two lymph nodes that showed up.  I am quite relieved about that.  So, I am having a lymph node biopsy in two days and we'll see if I need my lymph nodes removed or not.

Oh, and I got my hair cut very short!  I think the kids need to see me in transition.  My two older kids said I looked like a teacher and like a different Mom!  My baby just smiled and laughed.  My kids are so funny and so honest.  I love them so much!!!


And, here's a tip...don't watch clips of Modern Family and Suburgatory when you're healing from any surgery.  Laughing hurts!!! :)


On to the next!