Today isn't only Valentine's day but marks one week of Becky being admitted. As I type this, Becky is receiving a massage to some relaxing music and has the biggest smile on her face. Think of the most content smile and that is what Becky has on her face right now. Though I can't take credit for buying her a massage, I always encourage her to get one :)
Here on the stem cell unit, they take hand washing to the next level. So you know how most people wash their hands for like ten seconds and think that is a diligent job? That doesn't cut it here. I know the majority of people reading this blog wash their hands between five and ten seconds, so I implore you to wash for at least twenty seconds. But getting back to the story, once a day to come onto the unit I have to scrub down using a sponge.
This is no ordinary sponge. This sponge has bristles that are meant to scrub between your fingernails. Not using common sense, I thought I was supposed to scrub with the bristles all over my hands. That was a huge mistake. I quickly developed five small cuts on my knuckles and hands. Then every time I would eventually use a anti-bacterial solution, my hands were left with this feeling of being sunburnt. The alcohol from the solution covered my micro cuts and set them on fire.
Much like a person who has roamed the desert craves for a fresh water spring, my hands thirsted for a waterfall of lotion. Using the lotion has helped my hands recover. Also I've learned not use the bristles on every inch of my hand, but rather only in the nooks and crannies where germs may hide. Since not using the bristles, I no longer have to chase after lotion like it were a waterfall. I just have to remember to use the other side of the sponge.
Becky, my name is Alex, and your aunt Debbie Peppin, is my "wish granter" for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and she gave me a link to your blog. It sounds like you have been through so much, and managed to say so strong in you journey/marathon in getting your bone marrow transplant. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I am actually being considered as a candidate for a stem cell/bone marrow transplant, not for cancer, but for an autoimmune disease (Rheumatoid Arthritis)/and some other ailments. I hope that your transplant is a success, and continue to stay strong and have faith. Good Luck!!!!
ReplyDeleteAlex, thanks so much for commenting on the blog! I love the Make-a-Wish Foundation and am so happy for you that you get a wish :). That was an incredible experience for me. Thank you for your prayers and support. I will pray for your health and possible transplant as well, and my aunt can give you my contact information if you'd like to keep in touch.
ReplyDeleteThis is for Zack....how about urging folks to sing Happy Birthday (silently might be appreicated depending upon where you are)when washing their hands. I learned that as it takes 20 seconds to sing it all! AND since the BMT will be Becky's new birth (birthday) it works double!
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ReplyDeleteOkay so in the defense of the sponge...I really enjoyed my experience with it. It's a perfect balance of soft cushion with tingly bristles. It was like a spa day for my hands. I wanted to take one home with me. However, I understand your point Zack since I haven't used it as much as you have.
ReplyDeleteWendy, we'll be sure to take some home with us when we leave so you can have more spa days for your hands :).
ReplyDeleteOkay now that explains all the cuts I had in my hands...I thought they were paper cuts. Now I know not to use the scrub all over my hands :)
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