9-25-2014 Treatment #3

What a relief to drive free of rush hour traffic to the northeast corner of the Salt Lake Valley today. The hour long drive gives me time to reflect on the past treatments and what awaits.

Parking at Huntsman Cancer Institute is well thought out: valet or underground the entrance is easily accessed and inviting.

My first visit to Huntsman had given me a slight pause as only an elevator greeted me. Today I am confident it will take me to my destination and my sister. As always I am anxious to see the sparkle in her eye which has recently made a welcome return.





Curved architectural lines define the building's layout giving the impression of endless possibility. Interesting how a facilities design can influence the mind and calm the spirit camouflaging the necessity of it's presence.

The noon appointment which seemed to be a nice change caused extended wait times and allowed for anxiety to build. Labs were behind and the doctor visit slipped into regular general practitioner wait room expectations.

Dr. Sweetenham is a cheery, slender gentleman with a comforting demeanor and a pleasant accent. With my secretarial duty in full swing, notes sounded something like this: Feels good, eating everything in sight, this week anyway. No sweats, fevers, or chills, no lumps or bumps. Lymph node going down. Lungs sound good. Ankle swelling nearly gone. Will use same meds this treatment.

We ask, "What may have caused the cancer?"

Reply- "We just don't know". Possibilities include a genetic piece,  virus or infection and tied to a damaged or defect in the immune system.

And, "How do I know how I am doing?"

Response- Unless the unexpected happens a scan at end of treatment will determine cancer status. Maintenance treatments will be recommended as there is still a risk the cancer can return. They will be just the Rituxan, no chemo medications,  so no side effects. Should feel fine and hair will grow back. Yeah!!!!!!

The visit was short and informative and fortunately allowed for a lunch at the Bistro on the 6th floor before a 2 o'clock treatment. It was somewhat telling leaving a full patient waiting room and the subsequent difficulty in making the next appointment. Fitting us in will put us at the front of the line even if it means sleeping in the parking lot.
 

Waiting for the infusion room was also lengthy which had not been our prior experience. A surprise visit from family provided a pleasant diversion.

3pm-Finally treatment begins.

Each medication is crosschecked with name and birthday to ensure accuracy. Signs of reaction are closely monitored. If evident the dose is backed off immediately and re-evaluated. Fine tuning of the meds is obviously still in progress. Soon drowsiness sets in and chit chat is replaced with relaxed sleep leaving me to once again reflect and helplessly watch and wait.

The view from my chair reaches across the valley. As a helicopter takes off from the pad at the U of U Hospital just across the way, I can't help but once again marvel at the efforts taken to make this building of pain a place of healing for every aspect of wellness: from the learning center to internet access to classes which highlight symptom management.

After 7 1/2 hours, the nurse announces the conclusion of our stay is near and reassures us that any needs should be relayed and will effectively be met. All that's left is the drive ahead and hopefully a restful, uneventful evening.

Till next time as the sun sets over the Oquirrh's. Three Down - Three To Go.