Alright, this marks a momentous occasion. That's right, it's the first post of my first blog ever. Who even thought of the word "blog"? To me it seems odd especially because I was always into computers and the internet and such, and the word didn't exist in 2003. Not that I remember anyway. I go to Mexico for 2 years, and then I come home and suddenly there is this huge explosion of bloggers and everyone going blog crazy. And here I am, 3 years later than that even, and I'm just barely getting into it... and really the only reason I am is because I have so many people wondering what is going on with me and wanting updates on my health. So this will be good for all of us: It'll give me something to do when I'm stuck in a hospital, and everyone else can easily stay up to date. For now though I am still at home and so I'm not sure how often I'll write.
Yesterday I got my portable catheter in my chest removed, and had a Hickman central line placed on the opposite side of my chest. I had had that "port" for a little over a year, and it had really been such a good thing to have. It allowed the nurses giving me chemo just to pretty painlessly poke me in the port just under my skin instead of having to find a vein in my arm and poke me there each time. It really was nice to have. This new line seems like it'll be an even better thing to have as it has 3 different lines going into me, so 3 different drugs could be given at the same time, thus being much quicker. Also, I won't have to get poked AT ALL, which will be great too! I thought it was kinda funny that they let me keep my old port in a little plastic cup. I set it up on my shelf, just a sort of a reminder of all of this. It's actually shaped like a heart, and it's purple... the nurses said they loved giving out Purple Hearts to their patients, sort of like soldiers.
The portable catheter that was in my chest after being removed.
I'm totally open for comments and suggestions on anything to do with this new blog. Hate the layout? Hard on your eyes? Need me to stop using such big words so you can understand? Oh, that last one will probably never happen! Anyway, I'm just sayin that you can let me know of anything I can do to make this a constantly improving creation.
The portable catheter that was in my chest after being removed.
Ryan~
ReplyDeleteI am glad you got a blog, I always like to know how the fight is going. You know you have a huge supporter here. Keep on fighting, and have fun with the blog!
I bet it feels good to know your purple heart was much closer to your actual heart than any soldier's.
ReplyDeleteHi, Ryan! It's good to always see a smile on your face. You're a lot tougher than I am~
ReplyDeleteRyan, this is a great idea! We think about you every day and hope you are getting through this alright so far.
ReplyDeleteRyan, what a good idea--this blog--You will be in touch with a lot of people who love you.
ReplyDelete--Grandpa Winters
Hi Ryan! I am so glad you started this blog! I met your Dad in the Atlantic City airport and angels put us together. I had alot of health problems and could relate so much to what your Dad was telling me about you. My hickman line was the best thing they ever put in for me. I know you will pull through this with flying colors, but it is never an easy battle. Keep smiling and remember many people are praying for you all over the US and your WILL beat this. Never give up!! You family and friends are your best asset! God bless! --Maureen Allen Elon, NC
ReplyDeletehickman? let's call it a hicky, it is pretty close to your neck anyway...
ReplyDeleteI just wrote a long letter to the family email, so read that one too. We will love keeping up to speed, you hunk of a grandson!! Grandma Winters sends lots of love and prayers
ReplyDeleteHello Ryan. My name is Nickie Plevell and I met your Dad at a work conference. Our booth was next to his and we had plenty of time to chat. He told me about your journey. Every time that I would see him, I would ask about you. I think your blog is a wonderful idea to keep in touch with those of us who are praying for you. Merry Christmas soldier! :-)
ReplyDeleteMonique (Nickie) Plevell
M2 Business Solutions, Inc.
1260 Yankee Doodle Road, Suite 103
Eagan, MN 55121
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHi, Ryan,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Maggie, and I work with your Dad. May I welcome you to the world of Blog? This will be a great way to keep up to date on your progress.
My husband is retired military, and I have to say that when I saw the photo of your catheter, my first thought was of a Purple Heart, even before I read your comments. Quite fitting to receive such an honor from your nurses, in my opinion.
Know that you will continue to have my prayers, Ryan.
Hang tough!
Hi Ryan. I mountain bike with your dad, and have had fun listening to your dad talk about you and the rest of your family. I am glad you started a blog, and look forward to reading it.
ReplyDeleteKendra
hi, Ryan!
ReplyDeleteThis is a test
It's so cool how many people care about you. My eyes were all teary and the people weren't even talking to me!
ReplyDeleteYou know we're here for you at the Davies house, too!
Crystal
Hi Ryan! I'm Mindy Horne and I am in your parents' ward. I have heard so much about you and your strength. It is so great to read your thoughts and words and see your smiling face. We are all praying for you and know that you will make it through!
ReplyDeleteMindy Horne
Hey, dude,
ReplyDeleteI think this pretty cool. Don't know why you/we waited so long. Hope that you had a great Christmas. I saw your "purple heart". Think it would make a great Christmas ornament - but then, I use weird stuff for that sort of thing. We love you lots and think you're pretty awesome. Come stay with us if you need a B&B closer to the hospital - I take requests for meals.
Love, Aunt Nola