Day Five - Tuesday

Tuesday was good but led to a rough night...

Oxygen

One thin I was getting used to was being on oxygen. I started with a full mask that is attached to a pump on the wall. Eventually, I moved on to a nasal only version--but that's rough on the nose without a humidifier.  A humidifier consists of sterile water in a bottle that the hose runs through first. I felt like it was sort of the opposite of being a fish. A fish needs air added to his water tank--I needed water added to my air.

Also because of the fluid on my lungs I now need to sleep with my head upright. I found that out Monday night when I didn't. My lung fluids were up in the morning.

I am attached to a monitor--one of my many tethers. It tracks my heart rate, my oxygenation levels and my respiration. Interesting to see my oxygenation levels, which they want to keep at 91 or higher. With the oxygen its not a problem, but without--its not easy.  I am generally short of breath without it.

The Chair

I spent a lot of time in a chair today instead of a bed--hours and hours in the end. It was great--I spent time on my laptop catching up on email and watching TV. Jen got me a universal remote. I watched Heroes the night before and then Fringe sitting in a chair.

The only downside was the fact that all the liquids settled in me and my legs became huge. It was good though, and a nice change from my bed. 

Call with Joe

An old friend and ex-co-worker called at about 10 at night. He had contracted ALL, a different form of Leukemia, last year. It was wonderful to talk with him. He confirmed that I have it pretty easy with APL. His process, which included Bone Marrow Transplant was much more intensive and severe than mine.

We talked for almost an hour I think--thanks for the great chat Joe!

Bad Night of Not Sleep

Yeah--this night was a bad one. I forget if I had a fever--I think I did. I know I slept horribly if at all. My nurse was great and helped me through it, but it meant that Wednesday I was totally exhausted.