Monday, June 14, 2010

Platelet Transfusion

I went in this morning for my routine lab tests. As I was leaving the hospital, I saw my doctor in the hallway. We stopped and visited for a few minutes, and he told me that he would call me later with the results of the lab tests.

I had just gotten home and had lunch when the phone rang. It was my doctor telling me he wanted me to go back to the hospital for a platelet transfusion. Josh had taken my truck because he had a dentist appointment, so I was without wheels. I called Ron and he came home and took me to Wilford Hall. Fortunately, it was a slow day at his office.

When platelets drop below the 10,000 range, a transfusion is needed. My count was 8,000. Not that bad, but low enough that my doctor was a bit concerned. He said that I may need a blood transfusion on Wednesday, but we'll see. I was hoping to get through all this without transfusions. I am anemic now, though, and get dizzy and tired when I move too fast or do too much.

My white counts are quite low, too, meaning I'm in a neutropenic state (immunosuppressed). I have to stay away from crowds, flowers, dirt and germs. I can't eat yogurt or fresh fruits and vegetables and have to wear a mask if I go around people. They really recommended just staying home and being a hermit. That's okay. I can do that for a week. Hopefully by next week my white count will rebound.

But in spite of it all, I'm really doing okay. I'll do whatever it takes to get well without any objection!

4 comments:

X said...

Prayers continue!

Jennifer Mulkey said...

I got that way too, thankfully, I didn't have to get a transfusion. But I well remember no fresh fruits or veggies, and the masks. Unfortunately, it all goes with it when they are trying to suppress your immune system :( Many prayers here this week for you and remember to send your guardian angel to St. Pio if you think you need to. Just take it easy and take really good care of you.

Anonymous said...

Hi Sis! I love you, I'm praying. Big Hugs, Sandi

Kalona said...

Angela, Jennifer and Sandi,
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support. It helps so much.

Jennifer, thank you for reminding me to send my guardian angel. I loved the little book!