PET Scan

I managed to push this test off a whole extra month. My oncologist had agreed we could push the time frame from every other month to three months, but that fell in June while I was busy being crazy elsewhere. I convinced the receptionist to schedule it in early July. Then the insurance company got involved and asked for justification (about time!) of why I am having so many of these tests. Consequently I got a real reprieve.

Not that I don't want to catch any developments early, mind you. But I kind of like pretending that I am normal and healthy! Last time I did one of these, I was kvetching about things, and my friend gently reminded me that if I want company, all I have to do is ask. I really thought about it. Its a two hour procedure during the first hour of which I sit alone in a darkened room hooked up to an IV and be quiet while the radiation seeps into my system, and the other hour I spend in the giant donuts being clunked and dipped in and out of magnets. What a bore for someone to sit in a waiting room by themselves through all that.

Still, despite the fact that it doesn't really hurt a lot, and I can drive myself there and back without impediment, it would be nice to know there is someone hanging in there with me. I felt a bit silly asking for help when I could very well do it myself (and have been), but I asked. And my friend was more than willing to pick me up and see me through it.

I was surprised at how much of a difference it makes to have her there! We chatted about stuff during the drive and while we waited in the reception area (we got there a bit early). I wasn't even aware of how focused we were on life and future travels and summer events and catching up. How much more pleasant that is than staring at other people who sometimes look pretty sick and worn out, or speculating about the test hanging over my head!

Time seemed to go by much faster. The hour "nap" flew by, and the machine dunking marched smoothly along. Before I knew it, I was done! Same old instructions, but they didn't seem so daunting. Yes, I am radioactive for at least three hours. Don't hug any babies, puppies or old people, flush twice, wash three times - gosh, it sounds like a silly song!

My friend had spent the time shopping in a natural food store in that section of town that she doesn't get to very often - clever! AND most importantly, she brought me a piece of organic dark chocolate to help me break my fast. Way better than schlepping off by myself. She even gave me a hug despite the "glowing in the dark" thing. It was so much better having someone with me. I will definitely ask again.