Lifeline to Tomorrow

Well it seems for every stride I might take, there is always a reminder of why I continue to be an advocate for blood donors. Just is the case with my latest treatment.

For the last month to 6 weeks, I had not been feeling myself and my energy/motivation had significantly dropped. More importantly, I was napping frequently, doing as little as possible, and even with the increase in temperatures, I was keeping my scarf tied tightly around my neck. It wasn't old man winter coming back.

Anemia can be a debilitating disease when not treated properly and in my case I am receiving some of the best care there is, but sometimes, things just can't be helped.

After feeling bad for a period of time and not seeing a significant increase in my HCT/HGB levels and an extremely elevated RDW, the team of doctors determined it was time for an infusion of iron and added 2 pints of red cells in order to bring me to capacity.

There seems to be a mystery for the anemia - there is no blood loss evident (remember, I can no longer have children) and they have run every major test to determine other diseases with anemia as a side effect. At this time, my base levels are just significantly lower than average.

The iron infusion is a last resort and has very serious side effects, luckily, because the good doctors know that I am allergic to the very thing I need, the infusions are delivered with added steroids and antibiotics in order to combat any rejection. At this time, I am dealing with very uncomfortable stomach pains which I am hoping subside soon - but, at least I have another tomorrow.

Today is a bright day and I'm even more thankful for a wonderful and talented team of doctors and blessed by blood donors that continue to give.