Knock Knock... Who Is There? ... MRI
Written May 14, 2018
At 10am I checked in, filled out required paperwork to ensure that I qualify for the MRI scan. We waited patiently for 40 minutes before the lab technician called my name. The technician looked at my paperwork and asked, " You know the routine right?" I answered " Yes". I quickly changed into a hospital gown, we locked up my clothes and proceeded to the MRI room. She had me lye on my back with shoulders pressed against the bottom edge of the head shield. She handed me earplugs and then began to place pads around my head and then a face shield was lowered over my face to lock my head into place. She placed a warm blanket over my lower body and placed the emergency indicator in my hand. I was then moved into the scanner where I instantly calmed myself down with 2 deep breathes and then the familiar sound of Thump-Thump-Knock-Knock began. You would think that this whole procedure would be quick and easy but in reality, you are in the machine for an hour and half. The first set of scans are of the brain and spine as they are. They then pull you out telling you not to move as they inject dye into your arm. Once the dye had been injected, they move you back into the machine for another set of scans on the brain and spine. This time while I was trying to not move, fall asleep (I twitch when sleeping) or even sneeze I began to associate the sounds with life sounds I hear on a daily basis. I told Beau that at one time I was pretty sure that my dog Woola was panting in my ear. I sometimes find myself putting together dance routines with the sounds, but I have to make sure that I do not move with the steps I am daydreaming of. I have never been one to stay still so I have to put a little more effort into this than most people.
After a quick lunch break, we made our way back to the doctor's office to talk with my MS Specialist. At first, we had a young man enter the room and my first thought was " He is in the wrong room" but he was a student in practice. He did the normal questions that most doctors ask... How are you doing? Have you had any problems? etc. He proceeded to test my wrist grip strength and eye test. He was impressed that my glasses were corrected to 20/20 because most people are unable to read the smallest line and as quickly as I did. The doctor then came in as the intern gave her my update so far. Then next part was the part where i am sure that I stopped breathing because I instantly knew that she was probably going to say something that I did not want to hear...
There are a few new plaques (Spots or lesions) that were not noted on my initial scan in December 2017. My heart sank instantly. The doctor continued with... We do not know if those spots are new while being on Tecfidera or if they occurred between the steroids and starting Tecfidera. I had a good month between the steroids and starting Tecfidera where I was fighting with the insurance to get my medication. I know that at that point I took a deep breath of relief. The doctor then said the positive point is that none of the plaques (lesions) are active (flare ups) which means no signs of activity which may cause issues such as numbness, sensitivity, etc. I instantly felt my breathing calm down after knowing that. After all of that they began to test my reflexes, timed 25-foot test (walk to a corner and back as quickly as possible), strength in arms, legs and feet and following a finger test. I passed everything with a little conversation regarding my left leg that I had surgery on. I have some limited feeling in my shin area, but we expect it to be from the surgery. The doctor said that I have been gifted with superhero reflexes so watch out I might kick you before you know it. I also have some shaking in my eyes when I follow something quickly but that is another gift I have been granted. If someone thinks I am crazy I can shake my eyes to enhance the look. LOL. Blood tests came back normal, so my liver and kidneys are functioning well. My Vitamin D levels are higher so we will continue taking the supplement.
We decided as a group that we would remain on the Tecfidera for another 3 months. We would then go in for another MRI and blood tests. This will help us get a baseline and determine if we will stay on the medication or move to another medication. We walked away from the appointment feeling like we have a little bit of control. I am not going to lie and tell you that I am not afraid. I have my worries, but I can't ponder on them too long because I know that it does not help me. Beau, my family and I are working together to learn and grow as a team. I am feeling better each and every day. I am now able to manage my fatigue and participate in weight bearing activities. I took Salsa dance classes and now I have been reunited with Argentine Tango which I had the chance to learn during my studies in Argentina Fall of 2009. I have been volunteering, working out every day and improving my eating. I have eliminated ALL fast food because it makes me flush with my medication and I do not feel well afterwards. I have attended an MS Conference to gain more insight as to what the medical world has come up with. I am constantly educating myself and if you have any questions about anything I talk about please let me know. I would be glad to talk with you. I am NOT giving up. I attend an MS Support group once a month and have made a friend through the group which has helped me realize that life is full of SO many adventures. I can do what I want but just need to alter a few things. Nothing is impossible. It's NOW My Turn MS...
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