I would have used my numbing cream had I realized the CT scan technician would be accessing my new chest port today.

As it was, she {very gently} removed the bandages on my port and {very apologetically} pressed down {a lot} to make sure she inserted the IV needle into the proper place. It was tricky since my steri-strip bandages were still in place.

IVs make me nervous. Many of my veins have ruptured with past IV attempts, and I nearly passed out one time when the saline got pushed in quickly. This port is to prevent that from happening and to get the medications into my system more quickly. However, the port and my upper right side, were still very tender from Tuesday's surgery.

The CT scan I had done today gives my oncologist a baseline before starting chemotherapy. My results came back clear--no cancer seen anywhere and my port and vascular catheter placed correctly. So happy to have a good report! 

However, imaging can't detect cancer on the cellular level, so adjuvant {after surgery} chemo is the standard of care to prevent a recurrence. Please pray with us that the chemo is effective and the cancer is eradicated completely. 

As my poor broken body continues to experience pain, discomfort, invasive treatments and isolation from the regular routines of life, I'm noticing how important the sense of touch is. Each time Stephen reaches over the van console to rub my arm, I feel a little less alone. When the technician, nurse, or doctor holds my hand, my anxiety lessens. A hug from a friend, hands held during prayer, or cuddles from my kids all bring a comfort that's more meaningful these days.

And a lox bagel and latte from my favorite bagel shop are a nice reward for a successful CT scan!