Tuesday, March 13, 2007 1:38 PM, CDT

I’m Plugging along and feeling nauseous. I had such a bad wave of it yesterday that I was on my deck at 5am gulping fresh air and trying not to get sick. I didn’t but was thankful for early Daylight Savings Time because I figured I had extra time to hang out in the darkness in case I did.
I went for the MRI of my upper spine yesterday and had a panic attack on my way there. I know what to expect for cramped quarters during an MRI or a PET scan and I’m not claustrophobic. However, on my way to UMass I started to wonder if I was feeling nauseous. And as I’ve mentioned, I continue to wonder is it hunger, nausea or just a panic attack?
I lie on the MRI table and they stabilize my head by putting two small cushions on either side of it. Then they put what can only be best described as the facemask part of a football helmet over my face. Can you just feel yourself freaking out? Then they slooowly push the table head first into the machine. For the first time in my life I was claustrophobic.
I closed my eyes and ignored it. MRI’s are loud though so it’s hard to relax. The entire test only took 20 minutes and I didn’t get sick and I didn’t have a panic attack, which I consider a small victory.
By the way, the panic attacks are a new phenomenon to me as well. Dr. Lennes prescribed me some Lorazepam, an anti-anxiety medication. The prescription bottle reads: Take as needed for nausea/vomiting, anxiety or insomnia. I think it’s quite an extensive list of symptoms for which I can use the Lorazepam. I’ve considered penciling in “for when your husband and kids drive you crazy.” However, a glass of wine usually takes the edge off of that! J
I’m only eating twice a day and the only thing that appeals is cold cereal: Rice Krispies, Corn Flakes and Cheerios. I’m also tired and it’s a weird kind of tired. I’m not tired enough to sleep; I’m only tired enough to sit.
I go see Dr. Walsh tomorrow to take blood counts and “see how everything is going.” I’ll set another appointment for chemo, which I’m guessing, will be Wednesday, March 21.
Thank you for the posts to my guestbook. They’re sweet and make me smile and some make me laugh out loud. Bettiann: I think my mother screaming “sticks down” is best done as an outside activity. Tracy: I think Sussudio was not necessarily my favorite song but one of your favorite things to laugh at me about!! Some of you have known me way too long!
If anyone read Greg’s post, yes he beat me at Scrabble. I’d like to point out that I was recovering from sedation so whatev. My overall record against Greg still stands. Everyone has to lose once in a while!
I’m still having difficulty posting My Story because no matter what I do or how I type the story into CaringBridge it tells me that the text cannot contain HTML. If anyone has suggestions you can email me directly. It’s really aggravating me!


Tuesday, March 13, 2007 9:07 AM, CDT
Hey Kimbie,
Not only am I going to start wearing a fanny pack, I am going to start using the word fanny. I think my grandmother used to say that word. "sit your fanny down here, right now". I am wondering if my fanny looks ok in the jeans I am wearing right now. That word is so underrated.
I am thinking of you everyday and channeling hope your way.
Lot's of Love to you and Greg and the kids,
Noreen
Noreen PowerRoslindale, MA
Tuesday, March 13, 2007 4:55 PM, CDT
Dear Kim,
Got your note! You are a faithful writer! I think the caringbridge idea is the best ever. The only thing better will be a cure for cancer.
The MRI sounds harrowing. I imagine you really had to distract yourself from your thoughts. We hope for the best results.
I wish you didn't feel especially the nauseous part. That must be rough. Would ginger ale help? A warm bath? Take care, and hang in.
Love,
Lauren
Lauren Cacela
Tuesday, March 13, 2007 6:39 PM, CDT
Hi Kim,
Someone told me once when I was in nursing school that if you ever feel nauseous you should suck on a peppermint, even if it's just a little hard candy. I admit to trying it once and it did in fact work. May be worth a shot.....
The comment about the '80's are truly hysterical... the perm, parachute pants etc.... how about tucking your two layered socks into your stonewashed jeans? That could be a nice accent to your look.
I'm so sorry you are experiencing these lousy side effects. I hope they ease as your treatments progress. Hang in there... I wish I had better words for you! Call my father if you get stuck with Scrabble, he's famous for his " ten dollar words."
love Alison
Alison VigeantWorcester, MA
Tuesday, March 13, 2007 7:42 PM, CDT
Hi Haggsie,
Here is a random thought to take your mind off the nausea for a few moments (at least I hope it does) - what is the first thing you or your mother think of when you hear the name "Wesley"??? I have never wanted a kid to catch a seagull more in my entire life...
Tracy CorcoranMedford
Tuesday, March 13, 2007 8:20 PM, CDT
Don't feed the seagulls!!!!!
Kerry Berryklberry12@gmail.com
Tuesday, March 13, 2007 8:20 PM, CDT
or was it just touch?
Kerry Berry

Tuesday, March 13, 2007 8:44 PM, CDT
touching the seagulls was the big problem - knowing Wesley he was probably feeding them to...
Tracy Corcoran
Tuesday, March 13, 2007 9:11 PM, CDT
Oh Kim do you know what you have done? Kerry is now going to "make it big" with fanny packs!! They will be plaid and polka-dots. You and I will be sewing and hot glue -gunning for days. You better build up some strength girlfriend we have work to do. I am glad to hear your first week went ok - thinking of you.
Lynne Mulry Whittakerlmwhittaker@hotmail.com
Tuesday, March 13, 2007 10:07 PM, CDT
Yes, yes that is correct. It all fits into the vision of the fictitious workshop. Mind you there will also be designer coffee, letterpressing, sewing etc. Truly the tasks I have for you all are endless. I am running out of executive names to put on your business cards...but that is ok. Kim the crafty tasks will be easy- nothing like the pilgrims!
Kerry Berry
Tuesday, March 13, 2007 10:52 PM, CDT
Hi Kim, I am sorry that you are so nauseous..one thing that helped me when I was for different reasons was lemons. The nurse would cut them in 1/2 and rub them on the tips of my fingers, (weird I know). It often helped a bit. Hang in there Love Debbie
Debbie McCarthyChelmsford, MA