The Worst Patient In The World

Let's see, who would the win 'The worst patient in the world' award? That'll be me, then.

Why? Here's the check list.

Taking medicine in the quantities and at the times prescribed. I do try to....

Following the recommended regime of care. I tried to sit with my feet up, but I got bored after a few days, and anyway I don't feel ill.......until the strong painkillers wear off.

Needles. Do I have to say more? Needles are for sewing material. Not putting into my flesh. Apparently I have 'needle anxiety'. Doesn't everyone? I tried talking to a friend while they stuck a needle in me yesterday. Could I do it? Absolutely not. It was a multitasking effort too far. I knew that a NEEDLE was being jabbed into my very vulnerable hand and was going to stay there for a few days. What else was I going to think about? My conversation stopped midflow, and I might have screamed in the manner of a freely-expressing woman in childbirth, if my male friend hadn't been present to ensure I behaved myself in a stiff upper lipped blokey sort of way.

Needles (Part Two). Why is it itchy around the entry point of said needle all night, and I can't get rid of the itch? The result is not good sleep. Surely there must be a better way of delivering meds, like the Star Trek hypospray?

Just as well it's not something really serious.......the NHS wouldn't cope with my anxieties.

Comments

[susan s.]

Hello, I'm here because Fr Kenny at Rector's Ramblings mentioned you. I have had chemo twice and I have a practical suggestion. How hard would it be to ask for an anti-anxiety pill to take an hour before you have needles. Even a muscle relaxant is good, and if someone else is doing the driving you should be able to get your docs to approve them. Even though I am a woman(and a foreigner!), I will say that you don't need to be "the man" about this anxiety. As we say in the US, "cut yourself some slack, man." You are not the worst patient in the world, by far. All chemo is hard, and everything you can do to make it easier on yourself should be allowed.

As to the itch, it just might be the tape they use to hold it in. Ask for 'paper' tape, next time.

Prayers rise for you as you face this treatment.
Peace be with you.
Christ's love from one who's been there.
Susan

[GadgetVicar]

Thanks for the counsel and prayers, Susan.

Just so as you know...I'm only being treated for cellulitis, not cancer, but had been posting blogs for my friend Alan Ervine, who is being treated for cancer of the oesophagus. Sorry for the confusion.

[susan s.]

I was misled by the good Father! I did wonder about the antibiotics, but in all other respects, you sounded like a chemo patient. I still recommend the pills though. :-) And paper tape.