The August 12th appointments
I had three appointments at Duke today - 8 am labs, 9 am CT scan, 10 am oncology.
When I checked in for labs, the lady who took my information (Ashley) had cute gnomes on her desk. That was a fun way to start the day.
For the first time since I started going to Duke, the lab was well behind schedule - even at 8 am. I also learned that you can’t have a blood draw from your arm on the same day that you’re having a CT with contrast, so the blood draw had to be taken from my hand (which is a little uncomfortable).
The CT scan was relatively uneventful. This was the first time having a scan done at 20 Medical Drive, and it was quite convenient. I am not a huge fan of the contrast, but it is what it is.
The radiology technician who did my scan was terrific.
After the CT scan, I thought I had plenty of time before oncology, so I went down to Tropical Smoothie for a Detox Island Green, per my usual routine.
Although it was still early, I went to oncology, thinking I would just check in and hang out in the waiting area, but, again, Duke was having an off day. Seventeen people were waiting to check in at oncology, and it took a full 30 minutes just to check in. I was actually “late” for my appointment by the time I got through check-in!
I had a quick visit with a PA, Kimberly Nolte, and we discussed the benefits/downsides of Letrozole, both agreeing that it seems to be doing its job and that, despite the bone density loss, it is the best option currently. Further, after discussion, I have come to the conclusion that I am going to opt for an infusion therapy for the bone density loss, most likely Reclast. I would rather be ill for two days once a year than deal with weekly/monthly inconvenience of taking the pills.
CT results are back already, but blood work will take a few days. However, given there’s nothing visible on the CT scan, even if something were to show up in the blood work, there’s really nothing to do now but wait another three months.
My next CT scan will be in 6 months. My next labs and office visit will be in 3 months. I am incredibly thankful for another good visit. Thank you for all who continue to pray for me!
