Hi All!
It's been a while since I've written huh? I'd say that's a good thing, because I had only been writing when I was in the hospital! : )
So I've been home since 12/18, and in general, thing have been going really well. I haven't been sick, and my checkups were going pretty well. I did have to keep on giving myself shots twice a day to help thin my blood (ha, I should say Nick had to give me the shots- I did it once). But I was finally able to stop doing that this Monday. Yahoo!
I did have a pretty rough time on Christmas day and over the weekend. On Christmas day, I started feeling the strangest sensation that my body was shaking when it really wasn't. Vertigo maybe? I felt like I was in a washing machine and was being shaken from one side to the other. I was also really lightheaded and dizzy. I had a doctors appointment on Monday and wanted to wait to go in until then, because if I went to the ER, I knew they would admit me and I would be there for at least 5 days. I just couldn't bear that thought. If I had felt much worse, I would have gone in, but I just laid low and tried to wait it out.
When I went in for my checkup on Monday (with my Mom and Rhetta) they confirmed that my blood pressure was really low. The top number for most people is about 120. My normal now is about 95-105. On Monday (and over the weekend) I had been in the low 80s, even dropping below 80 sometimes. So that had something to do with the lightheadedness. The other thing they found was that I was dehydrated. So they lowered my meds so my blood pressure comes up a bit and had me go home and eat an extra salty meal (heh heh) and drink lots of water. Sold!
The great news is that with that combination, I am feeling TONS better. The shaking is almost completely gone, I'm not lightheaded, and my blood pressure is coming up. I told Nick last night that I felt stronger and better than I can remember feeling in months. : )
The other good thing was that we got to spend a wonderful Christmas with my family. Mom, Dad, Skylar and Rhetta drove over 30 hours (!!!) to come see us. We laughed, goofed around, ate yummy food, played games, opened presents, and had a generally awesome time. They had to go home yesterday morning, which was so sad but, man alive, I enjoyed their visit!
Skylar gave me a great tip last week that Dad was really wanting some green (non-roasted) coffee beans for Christmas. I thought that if I couldn't find green coffee beans in Seattle, I was really pathetic, so Nick and I went on the hunt (online) and found them at a place near the market.
Nick dropped me off in front of the coffee place so I could go in and pick up the beans (parking is rotten down there, so he just circled the block). I got the beans, and the girl behind the counter asked if we had a roaster. I don't know what happened to me, but for some reason I felt cornered, deer in the headlights, completely blank. Like anyone who's cool would obvisouly have a coffee roaster-duh. So I just said "Uh yeah, for sure". Folks, I don't have a coffee roaster. Neither does my dad. So then I realized I made a big fat mistake and she may have some roasting instruction that I NEEDED to know, so I casually said "but, uh, you know, if I uh, DIDN'T, how would you go about roasting these beans?". She looked at me weird and then told me how to do it on the stovetop. I thanked her and got out of there as fast as my heart would allow. ; ) I am a total dork, and am obviously not cool enough to be part of the coffee crowd. But Dad loved the beans. : )
Anyway, Christmas was a blast, and I'm ready to go back to the real world, aka work- but the doc said not yet. We will have another discussion at my next appointment next week to see if she will let me go. Oooohhh, I've never wanted to go back so much in my life! Fingers crossed for a good week this week so she will see I am more than strong enough to "insurance it up"!
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and happy happy New Year to you!! Here's to 2010!! Cheers!
Love,
Jana
Hannah Sales may you enter 2010 less eventfully than you have been closing out 2009. No news is good news right? love you girl!!!
Michelle Gonzalez McMullen Thanks for the update! Wishing you a blessed new year full of good health, laughter, and work for you both!
Tammy Chriss Starting a new chapter in 2010...may you start off the New Year with more good health news and less doctor visits, more feeling better and less not feeling so good, more positive results and less negative tests, more salt and less shots :) {{{angel hugs}}} Wishing you to end and start the year with smiles, laughter, joy, peace and lots of lots.
Errin Kramer-Wilt Hey Jana, Glad to hear that you are finally having some good days thrown in the mix. Sorry to hear that there have been some downs still though...good thing for you, cause otherwise I wouldn't forgive you for not responding to my email about us all getting together for dinner next week :) Get in touch and let us know what day might work for both of you. Have a great new year!!
Jana Farrill Morrelli Errin- I've got to do a better job of checking email! I'll respond. :)
Errin Kramer-Wilt you better! ;) people want to see you and nick ya know! hehe
Allen Vary I'm so glad to hear it. I can feel for you with the ins and outs at any moment and i know how you feel not having to be pushed into the hospital all the time! AWESOME!
Kathy Malvern Glad you had a good Christmas Jana. Sounds like a fabulous visit with the family. I look forward to hearing your chipper voice soon. :)
Going Home! 12/17/2009
Hi All!
Ha!!! My master plan worked!! I got up early this morning, took a shower, and was eating breakfast sitting in a chair when the doctor came in to see me. I looked so healthy and happy and chipper that to keep me as an inpatient would have been FOOLISH. So I batted my eyelashes (although without mascara that's almost imperceptable) and asked kindly if I could go home today. And the doctor said he thought so!
He then talked to his attending, and they agreed that I get to blow this popsicle stand!
I do have to give myself blood thinning injections twice a day until Monday. That will give the pills I'm taking time to kick in and do their blood thinning work. I've never given myself a shot before, but they say the injections are similar to insulin injections, and I've known several people who have to do that, and they seem to manage well. I'm sure it will hurt some, but it's gotta be done.
Now that I'm going home, Nick and I will be able to get the house in order for my folks visit next week. Yay! Now I will really have to mostly direct poor Nick but hopefully I can pitch in some...
Anyway, that's all I've got for right now...hopefully next time we talk I will be chillin at Casa Morrelli!
Love you!
Jana
Melissa Owens Reasoner Yay! Good news! So does this mean no art class?
Jana Farrill Morrelli yeah, no art class I suppose. But home is a good alternative!
Jenny Lavik Awesome! Wonderful news!
Melissa Owens Reasoner Yes, home is a much better alternative!!
Sandy Farrill ohohoooo
Skylar Farrill Looking forward to seeing you sis.
Errin Kramer-Wilt WAHOOOOO!!!!!! So glad you are going home again. Don't work too hard at home... I know you secretly like to boss Nick around :)
Michelle Gonzalez McMullen Good for you! Let's try to stay there!
Gaye Morrelli GREAT!! xoxox
Jennifer Nicoles Porter Woo hoo! I'll be sending "stay healthy/stay home" wishes.
Sara D. Nora well the good side about giving yourself injections is now you will be able to shoot up herion if you need to :) glad you are getting to go home and just letting you know that I have been thinking about you a lot!! love you!!
Jack Thomas Glad to hear it! The shots are such a breeze allen told me! And you won't feel them a bit!
Mandy Morrelli Young YAY!! :)
Jo Carson Praise The Lord!!!!!
Ha!!! My master plan worked!! I got up early this morning, took a shower, and was eating breakfast sitting in a chair when the doctor came in to see me. I looked so healthy and happy and chipper that to keep me as an inpatient would have been FOOLISH. So I batted my eyelashes (although without mascara that's almost imperceptable) and asked kindly if I could go home today. And the doctor said he thought so!
He then talked to his attending, and they agreed that I get to blow this popsicle stand!
I do have to give myself blood thinning injections twice a day until Monday. That will give the pills I'm taking time to kick in and do their blood thinning work. I've never given myself a shot before, but they say the injections are similar to insulin injections, and I've known several people who have to do that, and they seem to manage well. I'm sure it will hurt some, but it's gotta be done.
Now that I'm going home, Nick and I will be able to get the house in order for my folks visit next week. Yay! Now I will really have to mostly direct poor Nick but hopefully I can pitch in some...
Anyway, that's all I've got for right now...hopefully next time we talk I will be chillin at Casa Morrelli!
Love you!
Jana
Melissa Owens Reasoner Yay! Good news! So does this mean no art class?
Jana Farrill Morrelli yeah, no art class I suppose. But home is a good alternative!
Jenny Lavik Awesome! Wonderful news!
Melissa Owens Reasoner Yes, home is a much better alternative!!
Sandy Farrill ohohoooo
Skylar Farrill Looking forward to seeing you sis.
Errin Kramer-Wilt WAHOOOOO!!!!!! So glad you are going home again. Don't work too hard at home... I know you secretly like to boss Nick around :)
Michelle Gonzalez McMullen Good for you! Let's try to stay there!
Gaye Morrelli GREAT!! xoxox
Jennifer Nicoles Porter Woo hoo! I'll be sending "stay healthy/stay home" wishes.
Sara D. Nora well the good side about giving yourself injections is now you will be able to shoot up herion if you need to :) glad you are getting to go home and just letting you know that I have been thinking about you a lot!! love you!!
Jack Thomas Glad to hear it! The shots are such a breeze allen told me! And you won't feel them a bit!
Mandy Morrelli Young YAY!! :)
Jo Carson Praise The Lord!!!!!
12/16/2009
Hi All!
So I'm still here in the hospital...I had hopes of leaving tomorrow, but those have been dashed. The doctors want to keep me here until they get me on the optimum amount of blood thinner, which will be at least through Friday, but if I know these folks (which I totally do) I will be here until Sunday or Monday. Bah Humbug.
The very good news is a cardiologist came to see me who I haven't seen in awhile, and she looked at my labs and said my heart failure seems to be very much under control for right now!! I don't have any extra fluid, my lungs are clear, I'm not lightheaded, my blood pressure is up (a good thing for me) and she was quite pleased. So that made me very happy- Yahoo for good doctors visits!
In response to the good heart stats, they also want to increase my meds while I'm here. So I might be tired over the next few days while they ramp those up, but ultimately, they will make me feel better soon, so let's do it!
Oh, speaking of blood pressure, I forgot to tell you guys about the other day...I was getting that ultrasound of my arm (looking for the blood clot), and as part of that they take a lot of blood pressures. And then they pulled out the tinest blood pressure cuff I ever seen (the size of a bandaid) and took the pressure on my fingers. I don't know why, but that struck me as hilarious, and I started cracking up. I asked if they were going to use teeny tiny little balloon thing to pump up the pressure (like something in Zoolander). heeheehee. It still makes me laugh to think about it. heehee.
Since I'm going to be here for a few more days and am crazy bored, I'm starting to beg the staff for things to do. I was about to ask if I could go on rounds with the doctors (I'm practically an expert now I'd say), but instead I saw an ad on the hospital channel for an art class you can take as a patient! I've never been an art buff, but now may be the time! And family- you can all expect to get drawings of hospital equipment for Christmas. You're welcome!
I'll be sure to tell you all how art class goes...I've never gone to a class in a backless gown before, but I have a feeling the playing field will be pretty level.
Adios!
Love you all!
Jana
Cathy Heckendorn Jana, you have such a good attitude about this whole thing. I think the art class sounds wonderful, and I'm pretty sure your dad would LOVE a HUGE drawing of some kind of hospital equipment....
Jenny Lavik Ok... Now I'm wondering if the blood pressure cuff was the same size the specialty vets use on Kicha!!! :-). Sorry to hear u have to spend more time in the hospital but wonderful news from your cardiologist!!!! Maybe it's true-- this is the most wonderful time of the year!
Mandy Morrelli Young Wow an ART class! That is SO cool they have that at the hospital. Painting and drawing will make the time fly. Thinking about you!
Travis Rubelee Boo! You need to quit visiting those guys! You know what George Carlin said about doctors, "Alot of guess-work and a white coat!" We miss you and hope you're out soon! I know they're doing their best and they'll get you fixed soon enough!
Nick Morrelli Do the offer any surgery classes? I like their surgery better than their art.
Katie Kwast Stoneman Art class sounds like a great way to spend your time! I didn't hear the answer about the blood pressure balloon. So was it teeny tiny??
Tammy Chriss *laughs* oh Jana...I just love your journals...they always make me smile and giggle....and it's over things most people would be complaining and whining about...even tho you have every reason to complain and whine, but instead you make it positive. Hey you could write for a hopsital sitcoms...like Grey's. Oh art class...hmmm you might get a naked doctor to draw or sculpt mold *winking and giggling* You need to put a sticker on your "back" that says "If you can read this, please tell me to close my gown" Just sayin. Bet the hospital staff all love having you there...hmmm hope that is not why they are trying to find reasons to keep you there *smiles* Keep your chin up and your gown closed {{{hugs}}} with love
Rebecca Heckendorn Sorry you are still in, but as everyone says, I love your attitude. You are an example to us all. PLEASE post any art work you do!!!
Jo Carson Art class whow, that sure sounds fun!! You might try your talent in writing a book about your stay in the hospital. I'm serious you got talent! You already have notes from your emails & such. Good news from the Good News Cardioligist. Give the credit to the Great Physician.
Kelly Morrelli Whoo-hoo good news from the doc this time! Have fun in art class!....took one of those once and 3hrs felt like 10 min!...however I wasn't in a open back gown so the calcs may be off a little. ;) love and light to you!
Gaye Morrelli I would LOVE to have a drawing of some hospital machine! Choose the one with all the whistles and bells!
Melissa Owens Reasoner WooHoo for good report from doc! Art class sounds fun. Maybe you can do a self-portrait?? Hmm, might be fun!
So I'm still here in the hospital...I had hopes of leaving tomorrow, but those have been dashed. The doctors want to keep me here until they get me on the optimum amount of blood thinner, which will be at least through Friday, but if I know these folks (which I totally do) I will be here until Sunday or Monday. Bah Humbug.
The very good news is a cardiologist came to see me who I haven't seen in awhile, and she looked at my labs and said my heart failure seems to be very much under control for right now!! I don't have any extra fluid, my lungs are clear, I'm not lightheaded, my blood pressure is up (a good thing for me) and she was quite pleased. So that made me very happy- Yahoo for good doctors visits!
In response to the good heart stats, they also want to increase my meds while I'm here. So I might be tired over the next few days while they ramp those up, but ultimately, they will make me feel better soon, so let's do it!
Oh, speaking of blood pressure, I forgot to tell you guys about the other day...I was getting that ultrasound of my arm (looking for the blood clot), and as part of that they take a lot of blood pressures. And then they pulled out the tinest blood pressure cuff I ever seen (the size of a bandaid) and took the pressure on my fingers. I don't know why, but that struck me as hilarious, and I started cracking up. I asked if they were going to use teeny tiny little balloon thing to pump up the pressure (like something in Zoolander). heeheehee. It still makes me laugh to think about it. heehee.
Since I'm going to be here for a few more days and am crazy bored, I'm starting to beg the staff for things to do. I was about to ask if I could go on rounds with the doctors (I'm practically an expert now I'd say), but instead I saw an ad on the hospital channel for an art class you can take as a patient! I've never been an art buff, but now may be the time! And family- you can all expect to get drawings of hospital equipment for Christmas. You're welcome!
I'll be sure to tell you all how art class goes...I've never gone to a class in a backless gown before, but I have a feeling the playing field will be pretty level.
Adios!
Love you all!
Jana
Cathy Heckendorn Jana, you have such a good attitude about this whole thing. I think the art class sounds wonderful, and I'm pretty sure your dad would LOVE a HUGE drawing of some kind of hospital equipment....
Jenny Lavik Ok... Now I'm wondering if the blood pressure cuff was the same size the specialty vets use on Kicha!!! :-). Sorry to hear u have to spend more time in the hospital but wonderful news from your cardiologist!!!! Maybe it's true-- this is the most wonderful time of the year!
Mandy Morrelli Young Wow an ART class! That is SO cool they have that at the hospital. Painting and drawing will make the time fly. Thinking about you!
Travis Rubelee Boo! You need to quit visiting those guys! You know what George Carlin said about doctors, "Alot of guess-work and a white coat!" We miss you and hope you're out soon! I know they're doing their best and they'll get you fixed soon enough!
Nick Morrelli Do the offer any surgery classes? I like their surgery better than their art.
Katie Kwast Stoneman Art class sounds like a great way to spend your time! I didn't hear the answer about the blood pressure balloon. So was it teeny tiny??
Tammy Chriss *laughs* oh Jana...I just love your journals...they always make me smile and giggle....and it's over things most people would be complaining and whining about...even tho you have every reason to complain and whine, but instead you make it positive. Hey you could write for a hopsital sitcoms...like Grey's. Oh art class...hmmm you might get a naked doctor to draw or sculpt mold *winking and giggling* You need to put a sticker on your "back" that says "If you can read this, please tell me to close my gown" Just sayin. Bet the hospital staff all love having you there...hmmm hope that is not why they are trying to find reasons to keep you there *smiles* Keep your chin up and your gown closed {{{hugs}}} with love
Rebecca Heckendorn Sorry you are still in, but as everyone says, I love your attitude. You are an example to us all. PLEASE post any art work you do!!!
Jo Carson Art class whow, that sure sounds fun!! You might try your talent in writing a book about your stay in the hospital. I'm serious you got talent! You already have notes from your emails & such. Good news from the Good News Cardioligist. Give the credit to the Great Physician.
Kelly Morrelli Whoo-hoo good news from the doc this time! Have fun in art class!....took one of those once and 3hrs felt like 10 min!...however I wasn't in a open back gown so the calcs may be off a little. ;) love and light to you!
Gaye Morrelli I would LOVE to have a drawing of some hospital machine! Choose the one with all the whistles and bells!
Melissa Owens Reasoner WooHoo for good report from doc! Art class sounds fun. Maybe you can do a self-portrait?? Hmm, might be fun!
Purple Arm- 12/15/2009
Hi All,
At this point, I am about to ask for a shelf in a storage closet at the hospital; I'll just keep my stuff there so Nick doesn't have to shlep it back to the hospital every 9 days or so...
On Sunday afternoon, I was getting ready to go to the store for a few things. When I got out of the shower, I noticed my whole left arm was a dark purple, bluish color. I sat down and rested for a minute, and it went back to a pretty normal color. Then I went to get changed, and it did it again! For someone who is generally, ah, pigmently challenged like me, a darkening of the skin at ALL is quite a departure, so I knew something was up.
I called the doc and he said since I'd had Sparky put in on the left side, and also since I'd had a catheter put in the left side of my neck a few weeks ago, I was at high risk for a blood clot, and should come to the ER right away.
I got to the ER, and they checked me into an ER room right away. They examined me and weren't exactly sure what was going on, but they needed to do an ultrasound of my left arm to see if there was a blood clot. Well, it turns out that the people that do that test are always on call except for Sunday afternoon and evening. Uh, rats. So they called a bunch of other hospitals in the area to see if any techs were available- no one could come.
Loooong story short- I stayed in the ER until 4:30 am (which was a total of 13 hours), when the finally admitted me into the Cardiac ward. I guess that's what most people experience when heading to the ER-I've just been super lucky and gotten the VIP treatment until now. : ) Not to say I wasn't treated great-it just took forever to find the right people to take care of me.
They started me on Heparin, a drug to prevent clots from forming. It can't break down any clots that are already formed, but it's important to prevent any going forward. On Monday morning, they did an ultrasound of my arm, and lo and behold, there was a big fat clot right near my collar bone and shoulder. The excellent news is that it was in a vein, not an artery. If it dislodged from the vein, it would just go back into my heart, not that dangerous. If it was in an artery and dislodged, there is a very good chance it could go to my brain and cause a stroke. Scary stuff! But since it's in a vein, they are just going to let it disolve on it's own over the next few months.
They are putting me on coumadin, a anti blood clotting medicine/ blood thinner. It seems to be a great drug, but I'll need to ask you all to refrain from whacking me on the head. Actually, if you could all walk around with me, surrounding me with pillows, that would best. You can all certainly take shifts...I'll send out the sign up sheet later. ; )
The other weird thing with coumadin is I can't change my vitamin K levels much with the foods I eat. Meaning I can't start eating big bowls of kale, cabbage, soy bean oil, or mayonaise. The mayo will be the only challenge but I'll get through it! I did ask what consituted a "big bowl of mayo"...just kidding! Sort of.
As for my LOS (length of stay), I expect to be out of this joint on Thursday or so. But they've given me no promises. I hope so, weekends here are lousy. They seem to send in the B team of docs (or JV as I call it) and nothing happens. It's a real snoozefest.
In other news, my parents and Skylar and Rhetta are coming for Christas in 9 short days! Yahoo!! Dad said he definately wants us all to go mountain climbing, glacier scaling, and to the Ballard Locks. We'll pencil it in.
Nick's about to arrive for our nightly movie showing...My vote is Love Actually, Nick's vote is GI Joe. Sparky's vote is Love Actually, so Hugh Grant here we come!!
Good night all!
I love you!
Jana
Mandy Morrelli Young Oh Jana! Wish we could be there, we love you and send you our positive thoughts, hugs, smiles, prayers, love, and anything happy and good vibey. I'm glad Sparky gets a vote, Love Actually is a much better movie than GI Joe.
Emily Murray Honey! We are thinking about you. Thanks for the update. Hang in there. =)
Marnie Miller Love actually is a fave of mine! I've already watched it this season :)
Kitty Muller warm hugs jana sweetie.. you are a brave and amazing young woman.
Sandy Farrill Sorry Holiday Inn was a let down. Nothing can compare to Whilte Christmas.
Abigail Claus Where do I sign up for a shift of pillow-holding?? I'm totally down.
Melissa Owens Reasoner Pillow holding actually sounds fun! :) Stay in good spirits sweetie!
Cathy Heckendorn Ask them if you can paint and put stickers on your shelf. You know, kind of personalize it a little.
Sandy Farrill You will certainly be able to go to the old folks home and talk shop on medicine. So there is a benefit to this. Dad
Rebecca Heckendorn I would like to be the first for the pillow holding, but you better be careful or you might get down in the mouth... :D
We are praying for you- and that no one gets sick so they can come see you!
At this point, I am about to ask for a shelf in a storage closet at the hospital; I'll just keep my stuff there so Nick doesn't have to shlep it back to the hospital every 9 days or so...
On Sunday afternoon, I was getting ready to go to the store for a few things. When I got out of the shower, I noticed my whole left arm was a dark purple, bluish color. I sat down and rested for a minute, and it went back to a pretty normal color. Then I went to get changed, and it did it again! For someone who is generally, ah, pigmently challenged like me, a darkening of the skin at ALL is quite a departure, so I knew something was up.
I called the doc and he said since I'd had Sparky put in on the left side, and also since I'd had a catheter put in the left side of my neck a few weeks ago, I was at high risk for a blood clot, and should come to the ER right away.
I got to the ER, and they checked me into an ER room right away. They examined me and weren't exactly sure what was going on, but they needed to do an ultrasound of my left arm to see if there was a blood clot. Well, it turns out that the people that do that test are always on call except for Sunday afternoon and evening. Uh, rats. So they called a bunch of other hospitals in the area to see if any techs were available- no one could come.
Loooong story short- I stayed in the ER until 4:30 am (which was a total of 13 hours), when the finally admitted me into the Cardiac ward. I guess that's what most people experience when heading to the ER-I've just been super lucky and gotten the VIP treatment until now. : ) Not to say I wasn't treated great-it just took forever to find the right people to take care of me.
They started me on Heparin, a drug to prevent clots from forming. It can't break down any clots that are already formed, but it's important to prevent any going forward. On Monday morning, they did an ultrasound of my arm, and lo and behold, there was a big fat clot right near my collar bone and shoulder. The excellent news is that it was in a vein, not an artery. If it dislodged from the vein, it would just go back into my heart, not that dangerous. If it was in an artery and dislodged, there is a very good chance it could go to my brain and cause a stroke. Scary stuff! But since it's in a vein, they are just going to let it disolve on it's own over the next few months.
They are putting me on coumadin, a anti blood clotting medicine/ blood thinner. It seems to be a great drug, but I'll need to ask you all to refrain from whacking me on the head. Actually, if you could all walk around with me, surrounding me with pillows, that would best. You can all certainly take shifts...I'll send out the sign up sheet later. ; )
The other weird thing with coumadin is I can't change my vitamin K levels much with the foods I eat. Meaning I can't start eating big bowls of kale, cabbage, soy bean oil, or mayonaise. The mayo will be the only challenge but I'll get through it! I did ask what consituted a "big bowl of mayo"...just kidding! Sort of.
As for my LOS (length of stay), I expect to be out of this joint on Thursday or so. But they've given me no promises. I hope so, weekends here are lousy. They seem to send in the B team of docs (or JV as I call it) and nothing happens. It's a real snoozefest.
In other news, my parents and Skylar and Rhetta are coming for Christas in 9 short days! Yahoo!! Dad said he definately wants us all to go mountain climbing, glacier scaling, and to the Ballard Locks. We'll pencil it in.
Nick's about to arrive for our nightly movie showing...My vote is Love Actually, Nick's vote is GI Joe. Sparky's vote is Love Actually, so Hugh Grant here we come!!
Good night all!
I love you!
Jana
Mandy Morrelli Young Oh Jana! Wish we could be there, we love you and send you our positive thoughts, hugs, smiles, prayers, love, and anything happy and good vibey. I'm glad Sparky gets a vote, Love Actually is a much better movie than GI Joe.
Emily Murray Honey! We are thinking about you. Thanks for the update. Hang in there. =)
Marnie Miller Love actually is a fave of mine! I've already watched it this season :)
Kitty Muller warm hugs jana sweetie.. you are a brave and amazing young woman.
Sandy Farrill Sorry Holiday Inn was a let down. Nothing can compare to Whilte Christmas.
Abigail Claus Where do I sign up for a shift of pillow-holding?? I'm totally down.
Melissa Owens Reasoner Pillow holding actually sounds fun! :) Stay in good spirits sweetie!
Cathy Heckendorn Ask them if you can paint and put stickers on your shelf. You know, kind of personalize it a little.
Sandy Farrill You will certainly be able to go to the old folks home and talk shop on medicine. So there is a benefit to this. Dad
Rebecca Heckendorn I would like to be the first for the pillow holding, but you better be careful or you might get down in the mouth... :D
We are praying for you- and that no one gets sick so they can come see you!
Sucess is a check up at the doctor that DOESN'T result in admission! 12/11/2009
Hi All!
Well today was my one week outta the hospital check up and they didn't say I had to be admitted! That's a big step in the right direction!
All in all, things are pretty good. I had a really good week, I'm sure because I was not suffering from some cold 'o' the week. I had a few spells of palpitations and shortness of breath, and a little lightheadedness, but nothing horrible. So the docs were pretty happy with that, and are keeping things status quo, to see if we can make it 2 weeks of feeling good. My vote is yes. : )
Having a good week really made a huge difference in my outlook too. I feel like I can do a few more things now. I went to the movies today (by myself!). You may think how sad, but that is one of my favorite things to do. I love to see any movie I want to see (Up in the Air), drink what I want (diet coke, extra ice), and sit where I want (near the front, no one in front of me so I can put my feet on the chair in front of me). That's my idea of a good time. It's just so peaceful, quiet, and utterly satisfying.
Oh, I think I'm going to start working from home part time next week! And while all my work friends are just dying about the thought of voluntarily going back to work, I'm so ready. My bosses have been fantastic this whole time, and continue to be fantastic as they are going to let me work from home, and just take on low stress projects. I just can't tell you how grateful I am to them for letting me ease into things. I know it's going to make a huge difference in my recovery.
I do have 2 doctors appointments next week, as they want to keep a very close eye on me. It is everyone's goal to keep me out of the hospital for a long time. I completely agree.
Oh, and fyi, Christmas decorating is done! I dread to see our electric bill this month, as I have put lights around every doorframe, window, railing, and mantle in our house. The upside is our house feels like the inside of a christmas tree! Merry Christmas!
Bye for now,
I love you all!
Jana
Tammy Chriss oh I wish I could see the inside of your Xmas tree * Do I need sunglasses to walk into your house? *giggles* It makes me happy to see you had a great week! You are so upbeat and even got to go see a movie by yourself...whoohoo! Did you get to put your feet up and get the usher bring you refills? *smiles* You are a ray of sunshine. Your journals lift my spirits and remind me we have the strength during weak times. Also to remind me we can choose to be postitive or to be negative. I always prefer posititve, but you just make it look so much more perkier that I want to be just like you! {{{angel hugs}}} and sending you lots of Light, like you need more...with friendship and love
Jana Farrill Morrelli Oh Tammy, you're so sweet,and your kind notes always make my day. : ) I reread your comments (and everyone else's) over and over again when I'm feeling low or lousy. : ) They are the best medicine (after carveidilol!) : )
Kitty Muller i want to see pictures of the inside with all your lights. that sounds so fun and beautiful. i love going to the movies alone too. glad you are feeling better this week. =)
Jenny Lavik Jana- I am sooooooo happy to hear that you are doing well! Just in time for Christmas! :-)
Sandy Farrill Daughter a good week is such good news. Can't wait to see you. Dad
Travis Rubelee That's awesome news! I know your ticker will be back up to normal in no time!
Cathy Heckendorn Yeah!!!! What wonderful news. We'll just keep praying for more visits like this.
Melissa Owens Reasoner Glad you had a good week! You should take pictures of your beautiful Christmas decorated house. :)
Sandy Farrill Yea! great news! We are looking forward to Christmas!
Peter Morrelli Great, keep up the good reports. Love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sandy Farrill Your great grandmother said a good day is a day you don't spend in a doctors waiting room. And when your young pain is the absence of pleasure. When your 27 pleasure is the absence of pain. Dad
Mandy Morrelli Young So happy you had a great week!! You'll have an awesome Christmas. We love and miss you!
Gaye Morrelli YEA! YEA! YEA!.... xox
Well today was my one week outta the hospital check up and they didn't say I had to be admitted! That's a big step in the right direction!
All in all, things are pretty good. I had a really good week, I'm sure because I was not suffering from some cold 'o' the week. I had a few spells of palpitations and shortness of breath, and a little lightheadedness, but nothing horrible. So the docs were pretty happy with that, and are keeping things status quo, to see if we can make it 2 weeks of feeling good. My vote is yes. : )
Having a good week really made a huge difference in my outlook too. I feel like I can do a few more things now. I went to the movies today (by myself!). You may think how sad, but that is one of my favorite things to do. I love to see any movie I want to see (Up in the Air), drink what I want (diet coke, extra ice), and sit where I want (near the front, no one in front of me so I can put my feet on the chair in front of me). That's my idea of a good time. It's just so peaceful, quiet, and utterly satisfying.
Oh, I think I'm going to start working from home part time next week! And while all my work friends are just dying about the thought of voluntarily going back to work, I'm so ready. My bosses have been fantastic this whole time, and continue to be fantastic as they are going to let me work from home, and just take on low stress projects. I just can't tell you how grateful I am to them for letting me ease into things. I know it's going to make a huge difference in my recovery.
I do have 2 doctors appointments next week, as they want to keep a very close eye on me. It is everyone's goal to keep me out of the hospital for a long time. I completely agree.
Oh, and fyi, Christmas decorating is done! I dread to see our electric bill this month, as I have put lights around every doorframe, window, railing, and mantle in our house. The upside is our house feels like the inside of a christmas tree! Merry Christmas!
Bye for now,
I love you all!
Jana
Tammy Chriss oh I wish I could see the inside of your Xmas tree * Do I need sunglasses to walk into your house? *giggles* It makes me happy to see you had a great week! You are so upbeat and even got to go see a movie by yourself...whoohoo! Did you get to put your feet up and get the usher bring you refills? *smiles* You are a ray of sunshine. Your journals lift my spirits and remind me we have the strength during weak times. Also to remind me we can choose to be postitive or to be negative. I always prefer posititve, but you just make it look so much more perkier that I want to be just like you! {{{angel hugs}}} and sending you lots of Light, like you need more...with friendship and love
Jana Farrill Morrelli Oh Tammy, you're so sweet,and your kind notes always make my day. : ) I reread your comments (and everyone else's) over and over again when I'm feeling low or lousy. : ) They are the best medicine (after carveidilol!) : )
Kitty Muller i want to see pictures of the inside with all your lights. that sounds so fun and beautiful. i love going to the movies alone too. glad you are feeling better this week. =)
Jenny Lavik Jana- I am sooooooo happy to hear that you are doing well! Just in time for Christmas! :-)
Sandy Farrill Daughter a good week is such good news. Can't wait to see you. Dad
Travis Rubelee That's awesome news! I know your ticker will be back up to normal in no time!
Cathy Heckendorn Yeah!!!! What wonderful news. We'll just keep praying for more visits like this.
Melissa Owens Reasoner Glad you had a good week! You should take pictures of your beautiful Christmas decorated house. :)
Sandy Farrill Yea! great news! We are looking forward to Christmas!
Peter Morrelli Great, keep up the good reports. Love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sandy Farrill Your great grandmother said a good day is a day you don't spend in a doctors waiting room. And when your young pain is the absence of pleasure. When your 27 pleasure is the absence of pain. Dad
Mandy Morrelli Young So happy you had a great week!! You'll have an awesome Christmas. We love and miss you!
Gaye Morrelli YEA! YEA! YEA!.... xox
Gettin out of Dodge- 12/4/2009
(Note: I wrote most of this before I left the hospital on Friday. I am just now getting around to sending it, but better late than never I suppose!)
Hi All,
Well, it looks like I'll be headed home today! Yahoo! I'm so stinkin happy to be getting out of here. For a hospital, this place is lovely, but I WANT TO GO HOME! I've got christmas decorating to finish!
I haven't updated you all much since I've been here...I've just been so tired from everything that's been going on the last few days.
When I got here on Tuesday, the doctors came in to see me and they were pretty concerned to see me for the 3rd time in 5 weeks. They agreed that it seems this virus was what knocked me over the edge, just because my heart is so wimpy right now. But that didn't make anyone feel any better, because even with heart failure, I should be more resiliant than that. So they brought the infectious disease team back in for more evaluation and tests. I gave them my full life history (again) and they asked me a million questions about my background, family, where I've traveled, etc. When I told him I was from Texas, his eyes lit up and asked if I was from Beaumont. When I said no, he was all disapointed. I guess there is some bizzare disease that people from Beaumont get. I tried to get details on it and he wouldn't tell me. Weird huh?
We're still waiting on a few test results, but it looks like I don't have any weird infection or disease, just a bum heart. I did find out that I STILL don't have swine flu! They did that rotten test again where they stick a 5 inch stick up your nose to swab. Nick said they only really put in about 2 inches, but I told Nick we'd try it on him and see if he still had that opinion. He then agreed that it was 5 inches. ; )
The other thing they did on Tuesday was decide to start all the transplant workup testing. She said that she wasn't ready to get me on the transplant list yet, but she wanted to get all the tests out of the way, because there are a ton. Yeah, she wasn't kidding! I had dozens of blood tests, an ultrasound, a lung test, skin tests, 5 vaccines and lots of others. They also brought in a social worker to discuss my mental state, because that is also part of their decision to transplant or not. I was on my best behavior. : )
I also talked to the transplant coordinator for a while. She gave me a thick binder of transplant information to read, which was pretty helpful, but I'd already read most of the information already online. Yeah, I did the homework before it was due...it's nerdy college behavior all over again. It was good to talk to her though.
Here are some of the questions we talked about:
Q. Considering I'd like to be around for at least 40-50 more years, how long do transplanted hearts last?
A. Many people are at 20+ years with their hearts. They do expect life expectancy to increase dramatically in the future, because the treatments are getting better and better. I couldn't corner them on much more than that. Nick also asked if the average lifespan is for all patients, or if they have an average lifespan for people getting transplants at my age. They didn't. Hmm, I think I'll have to ask Uncle Google more about that one.
Q. If the meds end up working, and I don't have to get a transplant now, is there a possibility I may have to have one in the future?
A. It's pretty likely. Even if the meds work, my heart is still messed up and is not as strong as normal. I will probably never be out of the woods. But a transplant is the last resort and you want to do absolutely everything you can to avoid it (through medicines). If I can get to where I can live a pretty normal life with medicines, that is absolutely the best way to do this (for as long as I can).
Q. How long do you have to wait on the transplant list?
A. It can absolutely vary depending on the donor heart that becomes available. The donor hearts are placed based on how well they match the person needing the heart. Matching factors include blood type, body size, and even location (the closer you are to hospital, the better). The last factor is how long you've been on the list, but it's the very last thing they look at. So you could get a heart in weeks (if they find a great match right away) or it could take a year or two.
Q. Could I have a baby after a transplant?
A. Yes, it's been done, but it is very high risk (for me and the baby). The good news is my doctor's wife is the head of the OB department at UW and she would be my doctor, so I'd have superb care. We'd have to have that family over for dinner sometime, for sure. And we would have to wait at least a few years after transplant to even try. The better scenario is (again) just getting better through meds. A baby would still be tricky, but a lot less risky it looks like.
After talk to all these people, and having all these tests, I was pretty scared I was going on the list with a few days. But the doctor assured me that this was all being done just because I happened to be inpatient for a few days. They are still going to wait 3-6 months to see if the meds work before we move to the transplant decision. I was happy to hear that.
So all in all, it was a busy hospital stay and I'm glad to be out of there.
I'm really ready to start the Christmas season. I felt like I've missed most of fall (my favorite season) so I want to make Christmas awesome and enjoy every minute of it. So Merry Christmas to all and I hope to share some hot chocolate with you soon!
Love you!
Jana
Updated about 3 weeks ago
Kitty Muller savor every minute jana. Life is meant to be lived that way. =)
Luis Cheng-Guajardo I love you Jana; you're the bravest! Thanks for keeping us informed and I'm sorry I argued with your husband about the BCS. Tell him that if you want a playoff, then I want a playoff.
Jana Farrill Morrelli Luis-Ha! To keep my home as peaceful and happy as possible, can you please want a playoff too?
Tammy Chriss {{hugs}} thank you for your updates...and for making me feel better *smiles* you should be a "poster child" for great attitude. Enjoy every minute of Xmas cheer, decos and the season
Athena Sears All the more reason for your family and friends to become organ donors if they are not already!!! Love you and I'm happy you are home. I hope you don't have to go back to the hospital for so long that you forget where to park.
Kelly Morrelli Glad u are home with ur very own St. Nick! ;) love and light!
Mandy Morrelli Young ((hugs)) We love you and glad you are home again. Thank you for the updates!
Rosa Roberge I'm rootin' for those meds! Glad you are back home. I'm also curious about the mysterious Beaumont disease
Hi All,
Well, it looks like I'll be headed home today! Yahoo! I'm so stinkin happy to be getting out of here. For a hospital, this place is lovely, but I WANT TO GO HOME! I've got christmas decorating to finish!
I haven't updated you all much since I've been here...I've just been so tired from everything that's been going on the last few days.
When I got here on Tuesday, the doctors came in to see me and they were pretty concerned to see me for the 3rd time in 5 weeks. They agreed that it seems this virus was what knocked me over the edge, just because my heart is so wimpy right now. But that didn't make anyone feel any better, because even with heart failure, I should be more resiliant than that. So they brought the infectious disease team back in for more evaluation and tests. I gave them my full life history (again) and they asked me a million questions about my background, family, where I've traveled, etc. When I told him I was from Texas, his eyes lit up and asked if I was from Beaumont. When I said no, he was all disapointed. I guess there is some bizzare disease that people from Beaumont get. I tried to get details on it and he wouldn't tell me. Weird huh?
We're still waiting on a few test results, but it looks like I don't have any weird infection or disease, just a bum heart. I did find out that I STILL don't have swine flu! They did that rotten test again where they stick a 5 inch stick up your nose to swab. Nick said they only really put in about 2 inches, but I told Nick we'd try it on him and see if he still had that opinion. He then agreed that it was 5 inches. ; )
The other thing they did on Tuesday was decide to start all the transplant workup testing. She said that she wasn't ready to get me on the transplant list yet, but she wanted to get all the tests out of the way, because there are a ton. Yeah, she wasn't kidding! I had dozens of blood tests, an ultrasound, a lung test, skin tests, 5 vaccines and lots of others. They also brought in a social worker to discuss my mental state, because that is also part of their decision to transplant or not. I was on my best behavior. : )
I also talked to the transplant coordinator for a while. She gave me a thick binder of transplant information to read, which was pretty helpful, but I'd already read most of the information already online. Yeah, I did the homework before it was due...it's nerdy college behavior all over again. It was good to talk to her though.
Here are some of the questions we talked about:
Q. Considering I'd like to be around for at least 40-50 more years, how long do transplanted hearts last?
A. Many people are at 20+ years with their hearts. They do expect life expectancy to increase dramatically in the future, because the treatments are getting better and better. I couldn't corner them on much more than that. Nick also asked if the average lifespan is for all patients, or if they have an average lifespan for people getting transplants at my age. They didn't. Hmm, I think I'll have to ask Uncle Google more about that one.
Q. If the meds end up working, and I don't have to get a transplant now, is there a possibility I may have to have one in the future?
A. It's pretty likely. Even if the meds work, my heart is still messed up and is not as strong as normal. I will probably never be out of the woods. But a transplant is the last resort and you want to do absolutely everything you can to avoid it (through medicines). If I can get to where I can live a pretty normal life with medicines, that is absolutely the best way to do this (for as long as I can).
Q. How long do you have to wait on the transplant list?
A. It can absolutely vary depending on the donor heart that becomes available. The donor hearts are placed based on how well they match the person needing the heart. Matching factors include blood type, body size, and even location (the closer you are to hospital, the better). The last factor is how long you've been on the list, but it's the very last thing they look at. So you could get a heart in weeks (if they find a great match right away) or it could take a year or two.
Q. Could I have a baby after a transplant?
A. Yes, it's been done, but it is very high risk (for me and the baby). The good news is my doctor's wife is the head of the OB department at UW and she would be my doctor, so I'd have superb care. We'd have to have that family over for dinner sometime, for sure. And we would have to wait at least a few years after transplant to even try. The better scenario is (again) just getting better through meds. A baby would still be tricky, but a lot less risky it looks like.
After talk to all these people, and having all these tests, I was pretty scared I was going on the list with a few days. But the doctor assured me that this was all being done just because I happened to be inpatient for a few days. They are still going to wait 3-6 months to see if the meds work before we move to the transplant decision. I was happy to hear that.
So all in all, it was a busy hospital stay and I'm glad to be out of there.
I'm really ready to start the Christmas season. I felt like I've missed most of fall (my favorite season) so I want to make Christmas awesome and enjoy every minute of it. So Merry Christmas to all and I hope to share some hot chocolate with you soon!
Love you!
Jana
Updated about 3 weeks ago
Kitty Muller savor every minute jana. Life is meant to be lived that way. =)
Luis Cheng-Guajardo I love you Jana; you're the bravest! Thanks for keeping us informed and I'm sorry I argued with your husband about the BCS. Tell him that if you want a playoff, then I want a playoff.
Jana Farrill Morrelli Luis-Ha! To keep my home as peaceful and happy as possible, can you please want a playoff too?
Tammy Chriss {{hugs}} thank you for your updates...and for making me feel better *smiles* you should be a "poster child" for great attitude. Enjoy every minute of Xmas cheer, decos and the season
Athena Sears All the more reason for your family and friends to become organ donors if they are not already!!! Love you and I'm happy you are home. I hope you don't have to go back to the hospital for so long that you forget where to park.
Kelly Morrelli Glad u are home with ur very own St. Nick! ;) love and light!
Mandy Morrelli Young ((hugs)) We love you and glad you are home again. Thank you for the updates!
Rosa Roberge I'm rootin' for those meds! Glad you are back home. I'm also curious about the mysterious Beaumont disease
A place where everbody knooooowsss yoour naaame! (The Cheers song) 12/2/2009
Hi All!
Well the nice part of coming to the hospital for the 3rd time in 5 weeks: all the doctors, nurses, techs, and aides know my name. The bummer part is so did the operating room staff. Hmmm.....
As you may recall, I was discharged from UWMC last Monday. The first few days out were great! I got to see some friends, had a great Thanksgiving with Jillian and her family, and with Errin and Chuck. And Jenny and Stacey even provided curbside service to the movies so we could go see the Blindside (fan-freakin-tastic, by the way!), so it was a great few days.
Then Saturday, I got a really bad sore throat and my ears started to ache. I talked to the docs here, and they said to see my primary care doc on Monday if it wasn't better. So Monday I did that, and the doc said I probably just had a virus, but to keep an eye on it in case I started feeling worse.
So yesterday (Tuesday) I come over to UWMC for my 1 week post discharge check up. They needed blood for tests, so they sent me down to the blood lab (it was about a 50 foot walk each way). I was really tired on the way there, but on the way back, I was getting exhausted. I had to stop to rest on the way back. So I got back to the doc's office, and they got the exam started. All through the exam, I was really tired, and kept getting short of breath as we talked. And then when I got on the exam table, I got super lightheaded and almost passed out. Yeah, they HATE that. :) So they did an urgent exam, checked my vitals, and the nurse practitioner went to consult with my cardiologist. And they decided to admit me.
They aren't sure if this cold/virus I have was just enough to push me over the edge since my heart is so weak, or if my heart failure is getting worse. They are going to be doing lots more tests to try to get to the bottom of that.
I did get some new kind of central IV line yesterday. It seems my days with a PICC line are over, becausethey are way more trouble with me that they are worth. :) So this new line goes in the skin of my chest, right in the middle, and feeds an IV line right outside my heart. This way the blood they draw can help them measure the oxygen levels they need to monitor. It also lets them draw blood really easily, so that's nice. The one anoying part is that since these lines on me have been such a pain in the rear for everyone, they have quit doing them in my room, and they always take me to the operating room instead. I know the process by heart now, so we've got this down to a science. Yes, until me, the process was not a science. That's what I'm saying. ; )
The other new development is that yesterday, the doctor told me that it seems time to start having the transplant conversation a bit more seriously. She's not ready to put me on the list right now, but they did start the preliminary testing this morning, which included taking 21 (!) vials of blood. They will also do a tuberulosis test, take 24 hours of pee samples, and also do some breathing tests.
The docs are also going to send up a transplant nurse for me to talk to and ask questions of. I will be sure to post the results of that conversation- I have a feeling it might be interesting! If you have any questions you want me to ask, send 'em over! However, please note I will certainly use editorial discretion when picking my questions, because way too many of you are smartasses, and I'm not going to look like a fool in front of a very important medical professional. ; )
Ok, I'm going to go eat the hospital's version of an egg mcmuffin now. I'll write more later!
I love you all!
Jana
Hannah Sales Damn damn damn!!! I keep hoping for better news girl! Not worse!
Melissa Owens Reasoner Yuck! I agree with Hannah! I hope the tests come back with good results!
Kitty Muller oh jana.. well i am glad they are watching you close. sending you lots of love and hugs..
Meghann Chapman Hey Jana- have they (I'm sure they have, but just curious..) checked your hemoglobin levels? A lot of your symptoms match mine when I was extremely anemic. Anyway, just a thought. I hope you get better and will continue to pray for you.
Jana Farrill Morrelli Hey Meghann, Yeah, they did and my levels are a bit low (can't remember exactly what) so I am a little anemic. They think that also may be because I've had so much blood drawn. They were not worried about it though.
Errin Kramer-Wilt Hey there Jana banana (the new nickname I have for you that I say in my head all the time), I am glad to hear that you are still in good spirits...and from the sounds of it that maybe you are feeling a bit better today than yesterday? I know it sucks...but I am glad that you are taking care of yourself and not lying to the doctor and telling him what he wants to hear so you can go home :) I hear from Nick that you are in quarantine. Is that still true? I am working a LONG catering shift tonight...but if you are still there tomorrow (I hope not) maybe I could swing by for a visit. Chuck will be out of town so I will be desperate for some non-puppy company. Talk to you soon chica.... Thanks for keeping us all updated so vigilantly! Errin
Errin Kramer-Wilt P.S. thanks for getting the cheers song stuck in my head! (sarcasm)
Jana Farrill Morrelli Errin: I'm in quarantine but not really... as long as you don't come within 3 feet of me you don't have to wear a mask. (You just have to have one nearby in case the doctors come in and you don't want a scolding.) Tomorrow would be great!
Mandy Morrelli Young Jana! I wish we lived closer to you so we could visit. You are very brave and I'm glad you helped the medical field figure out the science of the new central IV thing. Please feel better soon! We love and are thinking about you!
Jillian McJannet Hey Lady - my day went sideways...just finishing up work. I'll try to come by tomorrow. I'm thinkin' about you lots. l XOXOXO
Katie Kwast Stoneman wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you
Michelle Ortega Hey Jana, long time no see, long time no talk to!! Sorry to hear you're not doing to well. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care girl : )
Kelly Morrelli Hey there lady... I echo Mandy (in looks and in comment here)... I do wish we lived closer. Thinking positive thoughts of you...much love, light and blessings.
Tammy Chriss hey Girl...please put me on your mailing list for your Notes . I just happened to trip over this. I love the way you write...making US feel better with smiles and giggles while you walk upon the unknown journey with difficult tests... and absolutely love your posititve attitude...if I ever go through something and I need uplifting mentor...I will ... See Morebe looking for YOU! *smiles* Ask the Doc to check to see if there is too much sweetness and postitivity overriding your heart...just a thought *wink* love to you!
Well the nice part of coming to the hospital for the 3rd time in 5 weeks: all the doctors, nurses, techs, and aides know my name. The bummer part is so did the operating room staff. Hmmm.....
As you may recall, I was discharged from UWMC last Monday. The first few days out were great! I got to see some friends, had a great Thanksgiving with Jillian and her family, and with Errin and Chuck. And Jenny and Stacey even provided curbside service to the movies so we could go see the Blindside (fan-freakin-tastic, by the way!), so it was a great few days.
Then Saturday, I got a really bad sore throat and my ears started to ache. I talked to the docs here, and they said to see my primary care doc on Monday if it wasn't better. So Monday I did that, and the doc said I probably just had a virus, but to keep an eye on it in case I started feeling worse.
So yesterday (Tuesday) I come over to UWMC for my 1 week post discharge check up. They needed blood for tests, so they sent me down to the blood lab (it was about a 50 foot walk each way). I was really tired on the way there, but on the way back, I was getting exhausted. I had to stop to rest on the way back. So I got back to the doc's office, and they got the exam started. All through the exam, I was really tired, and kept getting short of breath as we talked. And then when I got on the exam table, I got super lightheaded and almost passed out. Yeah, they HATE that. :) So they did an urgent exam, checked my vitals, and the nurse practitioner went to consult with my cardiologist. And they decided to admit me.
They aren't sure if this cold/virus I have was just enough to push me over the edge since my heart is so weak, or if my heart failure is getting worse. They are going to be doing lots more tests to try to get to the bottom of that.
I did get some new kind of central IV line yesterday. It seems my days with a PICC line are over, becausethey are way more trouble with me that they are worth. :) So this new line goes in the skin of my chest, right in the middle, and feeds an IV line right outside my heart. This way the blood they draw can help them measure the oxygen levels they need to monitor. It also lets them draw blood really easily, so that's nice. The one anoying part is that since these lines on me have been such a pain in the rear for everyone, they have quit doing them in my room, and they always take me to the operating room instead. I know the process by heart now, so we've got this down to a science. Yes, until me, the process was not a science. That's what I'm saying. ; )
The other new development is that yesterday, the doctor told me that it seems time to start having the transplant conversation a bit more seriously. She's not ready to put me on the list right now, but they did start the preliminary testing this morning, which included taking 21 (!) vials of blood. They will also do a tuberulosis test, take 24 hours of pee samples, and also do some breathing tests.
The docs are also going to send up a transplant nurse for me to talk to and ask questions of. I will be sure to post the results of that conversation- I have a feeling it might be interesting! If you have any questions you want me to ask, send 'em over! However, please note I will certainly use editorial discretion when picking my questions, because way too many of you are smartasses, and I'm not going to look like a fool in front of a very important medical professional. ; )
Ok, I'm going to go eat the hospital's version of an egg mcmuffin now. I'll write more later!
I love you all!
Jana
Hannah Sales Damn damn damn!!! I keep hoping for better news girl! Not worse!
Melissa Owens Reasoner Yuck! I agree with Hannah! I hope the tests come back with good results!
Kitty Muller oh jana.. well i am glad they are watching you close. sending you lots of love and hugs..
Meghann Chapman Hey Jana- have they (I'm sure they have, but just curious..) checked your hemoglobin levels? A lot of your symptoms match mine when I was extremely anemic. Anyway, just a thought. I hope you get better and will continue to pray for you.
Jana Farrill Morrelli Hey Meghann, Yeah, they did and my levels are a bit low (can't remember exactly what) so I am a little anemic. They think that also may be because I've had so much blood drawn. They were not worried about it though.
Errin Kramer-Wilt Hey there Jana banana (the new nickname I have for you that I say in my head all the time), I am glad to hear that you are still in good spirits...and from the sounds of it that maybe you are feeling a bit better today than yesterday? I know it sucks...but I am glad that you are taking care of yourself and not lying to the doctor and telling him what he wants to hear so you can go home :) I hear from Nick that you are in quarantine. Is that still true? I am working a LONG catering shift tonight...but if you are still there tomorrow (I hope not) maybe I could swing by for a visit. Chuck will be out of town so I will be desperate for some non-puppy company. Talk to you soon chica.... Thanks for keeping us all updated so vigilantly! Errin
Errin Kramer-Wilt P.S. thanks for getting the cheers song stuck in my head! (sarcasm)
Jana Farrill Morrelli Errin: I'm in quarantine but not really... as long as you don't come within 3 feet of me you don't have to wear a mask. (You just have to have one nearby in case the doctors come in and you don't want a scolding.) Tomorrow would be great!
Mandy Morrelli Young Jana! I wish we lived closer to you so we could visit. You are very brave and I'm glad you helped the medical field figure out the science of the new central IV thing. Please feel better soon! We love and are thinking about you!
Jillian McJannet Hey Lady - my day went sideways...just finishing up work. I'll try to come by tomorrow. I'm thinkin' about you lots. l XOXOXO
Katie Kwast Stoneman wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you
Michelle Ortega Hey Jana, long time no see, long time no talk to!! Sorry to hear you're not doing to well. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care girl : )
Kelly Morrelli Hey there lady... I echo Mandy (in looks and in comment here)... I do wish we lived closer. Thinking positive thoughts of you...much love, light and blessings.
Tammy Chriss hey Girl...please put me on your mailing list for your Notes . I just happened to trip over this. I love the way you write...making US feel better with smiles and giggles while you walk upon the unknown journey with difficult tests... and absolutely love your posititve attitude...if I ever go through something and I need uplifting mentor...I will ... See Morebe looking for YOU! *smiles* Ask the Doc to check to see if there is too much sweetness and postitivity overriding your heart...just a thought *wink* love to you!
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