New treatment

Hi All:

As you all know I came home from the hospital last week. On Monday I saw my pulmonary doctor and she had them walk with me and keep track of my O2 levels. Well, after only walking 500 feet my O2 stats were down to 82%. So I know have oxygen here at home and tanks to take with me when I go out in public. I know I should be happy that they've finally done something about my shortness of breath, but I'm depressed that I've worsened to this point. It scares me that I'm going to continue to fall apart and die real soon.

I'm not sure how my hubby and daughter are handling this right now. Neither one of them really wants to talk about it. Bill moved out of our bedroom as the machine is to loud for him to sleep. I feel guilty that he's had to move to a different room.

Also, I saw my Internist on Tuesday. I'm to start to taper back on the steroids. They are hoping that I can cut back 1/2 of what I'm on in the next month. She said to stop cutting back if I have any issues with joint pain, worsening shortness of breath, etc. She's also going to request my Oncologist put another mediport in my chest. My last stay in the hospital it took 25 sticks before they got an IV in or any blood drawn. I'm black and blue and look like I've been beaten up.

Anyway, that's whats new with me. I hope you are all doing well and had a Happy Thanksgiving. I need to try to get my Christmas stuff done. I hope you all have a happy holiday. I love you all and I thank you for being here for me.

Hugs,
Barb

Hi Barb. I'm really sorry you have to be on O2. I hate walking around with my cane or walker. I can't even imagine how you must feel about having O2 all the time. I must say though that an oxygen saturation of 82% after walking a few yards is pretty pitiful. I'll pray that you will stay healthy through the holidays and you're able to get some pleasure! Love, Butterflake 

Barbara,
I know you've been through so much. I agree with Lynnwood. I think you will feel so much better with the O2. I had to have it this summer, my sats dropped to 84% on exertion and it was amazing the difference it made! Please know that I am praying for you! Love ya, Judy

(((((((( Barbara ))))))))) Thanks for the update sis. I'm sorry you need the oxygen. . . but I'm so glad you have it. Yes, that would be hard having hubby move to another room. I actually do that when my dh is snoring or when I get too hot. I just move to the guest room. I think it hurts his feelings sometimes, but I do SO much better when I sleep well. One way to handle this with your dh is to thank him for feeling comfortable enough to do what he needs to do to take care of himself. That should actually make us feel better . . . when they aren't hiding issues. But still would hurt initially. I hope you improve with the help of oxygen. Blessings!

Barbara-
You dont know me as I only post spurratically, however, I want to tell you that you are an inspiration to me - and I imagine to many others. Your courage and compassion show through in all of your posts as well as your love for your family... I hope that the oxygen helps make you a bit more comfortable (though I am sure it is a hassle) and that you get some well-deserved rest.


Wishing you the best
Laura

Hi Barb,

We all love you too and I think you give more to us with your courage, kindness, and love than we give to you. I hope the oxygen has you feeling better and the days ahead are brighter for you.

Sandy