tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43460646961557432572024-02-02T08:28:55.042-06:00A la Mia Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-63751056062053860332018-04-23T23:45:00.000-05:002018-04-27T18:43:34.253-05:00One Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hello, friends. I've been meaning to revisit this space for quite some time. <a href="https://foreverbegin.blogspot.com/2017/04/two-hospitals-one-ambulance-five-days.html" target="_blank">The last time I wrote in here</a>, I had been recovering at home for about a week after being in the ICU and learning about some scary health issues. I intended to keep you updated and continue to document my journey. Well... the day after I made that blog post, I had a stroke. It was the morning of April 23, 2017. One year ago today.<br />
<br />
It was the most terrifying moment of my life. I was so scared. Seth had never seen me so upset before. The ER doctor said that my symptoms of vertigo and nausea could "just" be from having a panic attack, but I knew it was a stroke first, which subsequently triggered the panic. I knew that being so upset probably wasn't helping, but I couldn't calm down. I tried to breathe.<br />
<br />
I made it through. Another ambulance ride, another few days in the neuro-ICU. There is a lot to tell.<br />
<br />
The truth is, it has been difficult for me to think about. It was such a traumatic experience that, whenever I go back to that morning, I feel all of the emotions all over again. It's a little better now, and with time I hope it has less of a hold on me. I needed time to process. I distracted myself from the health roller coaster by focusing on my upcoming wedding. The joy, togetherness, and gratitude I experienced surrounding my wedding were all very healing for me. Then it was the busy holiday season, and now another busy semester back at school.<br />
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One of the assignments in my English class this semester was to write a short memoir. I took that opportunity to finally return to this moment in my life that I had been keeping some distance from. I'll share my writing here, followed by some photos.<br />
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This repeats a few things from my previous post, but won't be as thoroughly documented. I have not yet gone back to ask for copies of the MRIs to share more neat images of my arteries. It's not a completely thorough account of my second time in the hospital, but, I am ready to put something out there. So here goes.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Dissection and
Determination</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Rushing to the car, we made the
seven-minute-drive once again to the closest emergency room before dawn. The
last time my fiancé and I took this route almost two weeks prior, we were calm
compared to how we felt now. This time, I was extremely alarmed and could not
stop sobbing. Armed with the knowledge of my recent diagnosis, I knew I was
having a stroke, and I was utterly terrified that I might drop dead any second.
I had never felt so disconnected from my own body, knowing that I had
absolutely no control over what was occurring. The intensity and weight of this
realization was overwhelming and shattering. This was not supposed to be
happening! I had finally started feeling better since coming home from the
hospital. I had been taking the medications, sorting through all of the new
information, making follow-up doctor appointments, and preparing for my “new
normal”. As my reality was thrown into another tailspin, I had to figure out
how to navigate my way through to the other side. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The last time I went to the ER, I was
admitted to the intensive care unit for a couple days before being transferred
by ambulance to the neuro-ICU at a larger hospital. I was in a lot of pain, and
after many tests, imaging scans, and an invasive procedure, I was diagnosed
with a rare condition called carotid artery dissection. A tear in the inner
lining of this major artery on the right side of my neck caused a clot to build
up until it completely blocked off all blood flow from the internal carotid
artery to my brain. I was told at that time that I was unbelievably lucky that
I did not have a stroke. I had no bleeding in my brain and no neurological
deficits. Imaging showed that my body was able to compensate for the occluded
artery by developing new vascular pathways to keep enough blood going to my
brain. Rather than undergoing invasive procedures such as angioplasty or
placing a stent in the artery to open it up, a more conservative approach was
recommended. The hope was that the blood-thinning effects of a daily aspirin
would help achieve blood flow around the blockage and eventually relieve the
pressure and pain on the right side of my head. Feeling extremely lucky and
slightly optimistic, I was finally discharged and able to return home after
what felt like the longest five days ever. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">However, my time of recuperation at home
did not last very long. Eight-and-a-half days later, I was bawling in the
waiting room of the ER, surrendering to the circumstance at hand and hoping the
nurses and doctors could fix me. It was 4:30am on a Sunday morning, one week
after Easter. At home, I had begun feeling dizzy, which was exacerbated and
accompanied by nausea whenever I tried to lay down. Upon feeling tingling and
weakness in my left arm and leg, I realized what was happening and tried not to
panic. At the hospital, I was unable to lay down on the hospital bed or CT
scanner without vomiting. After knocking me out with some medications, they
were finally able to get the necessary scans of my head and neck. The imaging
showed new vascular irregularities, so I was transferred via ambulance once again
to the neuro-ICU at the larger hospital, where further imaging determined
evidence of a small stroke. I also had new dissections, this time in my
vertebral arteries along the back of my neck. I learned to give myself
injections in my stomach so I could take the stronger blood thinner medication.
My doctor at the hospital told me to expect to be on it long-term, possibly for
my whole life. I was advised of serious risks such as internal bleeding,
cautioned not to travel to remote places in case of injury, and informed that I
could not have a viable pregnancy while on the medication. I was told that I
might have a vascular disease or a genetic abnormality that compromises the
structure of blood vessels, making them weaker and susceptible to damage, which
could be the cause of the dissections. It was difficult to process all of this,
and though I maintained my immense gratitude for how lucky I had been, I went
home feeling less optimistic this time. For a while, I kept a bag packed with
essentials and snacks just in case of another trip to the ER. My medical alert
ID bracelet arrived in the mail and became a daily reminder of my new reality. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">My journey to recovery and good health
continues to be a roller coaster ride. A couple months after my last
hospitalization, I experienced a skin issue of itching and red hives all over
my body and face which became so severe that I ended up back in the ER. A skin
biopsy found that it was not an allergic reaction, but rather a rare subtype of
an already rare disorder called mastocytosis. I have to get regular lab work to
make sure it does not progress to leukemia or some other blood disorder.
Thankfully, I have been able to manage it pretty well on most days. Regarding
the dissections in my major arteries, I do have some genetic issues that can
“disrupt the integrity of my vascular system”, according to the doctor. I am
awaiting further genetic testing to acquire more information. I have had to
make big changes in my diet and lifestyle in order to manage my health
conditions and medications. Whenever I get a headache or feel some pain in my
neck, a familiar anxiety is triggered. I am still learning how to achieve
balance in my life, how to get enough rest and not overdo it. I may feel
perfectly fine for several days, and then I will experience some days of
extreme fatigue. The unpredictability is frustrating. However, there has been
some good news along the way, too. The peripheral vision in my right eye was
restored when the pressure from the blockage was relieved. I underwent
full-body imaging scans that ruled out a suspected vascular disease called
fibromuscular dysplasia. Additionally, the six-month follow-up scans of my head
and neck showed that, amazingly, the initial blockage in my carotid artery that
started all of this had fully healed! I could not believe it. My neurologist
said I could now just take baby aspirin every day instead of the stronger blood
thinners. I would no longer have to get my blood drawn every week to monitor
whether it was too thick or too thin. I was so happy to tell my family the
great news, and tears still come to my eyes whenever I think about it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">While facing my health issues has been
scary and painful, it has also been an adventure that continues to show me the
power of gratitude, self-care, support, and working together. It is quite
surreal to recall the whirlwind of hospital beds, doctors, nurses, specialists,
ambulance rides, daily bloodwork, neurological examinations, imaging tests, and
procedures. I am grateful to no longer be confined to bedrest and tethered to
all the cords that made it challenging to sleep, move around, shower, and go to
the bathroom—heart rate monitor, blood pressure monitor, IV line, oxygen sensor,
and compression devices to prevent blood clots. I am grateful for the ability
to go outside and feel the wind and sunshine whenever I want, instead of only when
being wheeled out on a gurney to take an ambulance from one hospital to
another. I am grateful to have access to high quality medical care, and I am so
grateful for all of the people who have helped me out along the way. I have
interacted with neurologists, vascular surgeons, anesthesiologists, medical
imaging technicians, EMTs with the ambulance services, hematologists,
phlebotomists, receptionists, and hospital staff including cleaning crews,
kitchen staff, administrative personnel, volunteers, medical students,
residents, and fellows. In the medical realm as well as in my personal life and
school environment, I was truly able to witness the village of humanity at
work. Knowing that there is a social structure in place to support and guide
each other through challenges that may arise in any of our lives has helped me
to make peace with the fact that there will always be elements outside of my
control. Like the human body, our society and communities are such delicate,
complicated, incredible networks of moving parts that never cease to astound
me. I am now able to embrace the unknown and move forward, day by day.</span></div>
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I was lucky. I had only a small stroke called a TIA (transient ischemic attack) that did not cause any lasting neurological damage. And YOU GUYS -- as many of you already know -- a little over 6 months after the stroke, I made it to my wedding!!! Without ending up in the hospital or covered in red blotchy hives!! It was amazing. My gratitude never ceases. 🙏<br />
<br />
Onward.<br />
<br />
~ Mia ~<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jkhgi2L6vGpC3CElFxkmSnlgYMRQucXiix3_uIK_418q0z7uUCgABunW0YcCmsdkNBAfjBB_z8iZuRFziW_X9DyZ2kx7dpgrgBa37kA38zCp28TF3si2-AcNnXzTBum6MLcX19aw4X0r/s1600/01a+Snapchat-333048495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jkhgi2L6vGpC3CElFxkmSnlgYMRQucXiix3_uIK_418q0z7uUCgABunW0YcCmsdkNBAfjBB_z8iZuRFziW_X9DyZ2kx7dpgrgBa37kA38zCp28TF3si2-AcNnXzTBum6MLcX19aw4X0r/s400/01a+Snapchat-333048495.jpg" width="223" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8O4avGNRg0kWCc5dGdXCzsfAm9L2CPK27n-kwD2taP3FHuiH25bWLas4ir9fZeJ3lAbR4Qkj2Ehq93JFk7Gq0MpZcaMtfsHFsDhi69m-Dy1fex5RDDu46UGGEOvVhX_urRDRfPOq-f6u/s1600/01b+Snapchat-1977648277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8O4avGNRg0kWCc5dGdXCzsfAm9L2CPK27n-kwD2taP3FHuiH25bWLas4ir9fZeJ3lAbR4Qkj2Ehq93JFk7Gq0MpZcaMtfsHFsDhi69m-Dy1fex5RDDu46UGGEOvVhX_urRDRfPOq-f6u/s320/01b+Snapchat-1977648277.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">(It's just a sensor that monitors<br />my blood oxygen levels)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Company / Entertainment </span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3Q9rwfCHlQnhp_LZepqwOxwH5phaBMUsIpxWhbREhZAl7U5RkNQF9reRLCBEe7bzvYl5fbuSD6uSIpss3IroKYM6P3-wpp0afm85DYze4Tg8neSKA83ZuT3SkppkqYweHhcDh0x9v7rQ/s1600/01f+Snapchat-696022651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3Q9rwfCHlQnhp_LZepqwOxwH5phaBMUsIpxWhbREhZAl7U5RkNQF9reRLCBEe7bzvYl5fbuSD6uSIpss3IroKYM6P3-wpp0afm85DYze4Tg8neSKA83ZuT3SkppkqYweHhcDh0x9v7rQ/s320/01f+Snapchat-696022651.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_x9u_vF9WAAK5VLk15lI1hsVX2IJZL86VOzJD9CquHqx9l-4rdNC3m9IgRDyQsibDdk3J_tf6U-FIsiCwuLqbghD8qXh1c_zbwJDAFNjXitc8cf5NJNxXY_x03tlX0CcXcsUQJa5vBmu/s1600/01d+Snapchat-1700873007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_x9u_vF9WAAK5VLk15lI1hsVX2IJZL86VOzJD9CquHqx9l-4rdNC3m9IgRDyQsibDdk3J_tf6U-FIsiCwuLqbghD8qXh1c_zbwJDAFNjXitc8cf5NJNxXY_x03tlX0CcXcsUQJa5vBmu/s320/01d+Snapchat-1700873007.jpg" width="180" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpikdzY6ocES_p-tXJB9DOXwE5tzjOfC-dBOwTjqACuxTRpJNgtbviJsmfMh2jB0HHx8jigruoByQ0WDF25xukf3BvO2q4PzoUGpV7SL7t3T7IRM3MnH1Sq5Fb3AY9i1dZegLjcLJIRB0/s1600/01h+20170426_101613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpikdzY6ocES_p-tXJB9DOXwE5tzjOfC-dBOwTjqACuxTRpJNgtbviJsmfMh2jB0HHx8jigruoByQ0WDF25xukf3BvO2q4PzoUGpV7SL7t3T7IRM3MnH1Sq5Fb3AY9i1dZegLjcLJIRB0/s320/01h+20170426_101613.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-THaRPgvECTQPnkW7fvEwb8roAUCbiKU2TvvkwKzGPJiv93PAqafmjNtHey0onjX41VRbvDEmrgRxSrbNgdY0ciUGgMqyqHSz1Sdpy1cEkUMPMyp0Sb_Yc9dP6fQBKGmv4m2RBGeRizg5/s1600/01g+20170425_205906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="1600" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-THaRPgvECTQPnkW7fvEwb8roAUCbiKU2TvvkwKzGPJiv93PAqafmjNtHey0onjX41VRbvDEmrgRxSrbNgdY0ciUGgMqyqHSz1Sdpy1cEkUMPMyp0Sb_Yc9dP6fQBKGmv4m2RBGeRizg5/s640/01g+20170425_205906.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">After moving out of the ICU, this was my view of the Medical Center at night.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiti_35Zqin-DDl7YVMyoFwp7Q5sumaBi1ooRtbzSazGaxsXlz-mSVws4nkguh32Jcg03HD4vjcfWZpD-IM4PEZTWad1wS_5DMEuc1rXElEuQaYp4giIRYY7lGSfOx0W5PwM8n-UZ4OYZ/s1600/02a+Snapchat-1403278318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiti_35Zqin-DDl7YVMyoFwp7Q5sumaBi1ooRtbzSazGaxsXlz-mSVws4nkguh32Jcg03HD4vjcfWZpD-IM4PEZTWad1wS_5DMEuc1rXElEuQaYp4giIRYY7lGSfOx0W5PwM8n-UZ4OYZ/s320/02a+Snapchat-1403278318.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOpivDDbFXfb2CfnIIKzqVVSZxuv7FRKfqJ7CgzDytrOEquohDoN2QpQr0K4SK2UftaG5JCCMcxl-1mq1h1g4GL9Ulipt26gbO2SzIvMt-pP4xfQNPmUxqGmCNR1BVagvAKHxbsGgWdRr/s1600/02b+Snapchat-213446514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOpivDDbFXfb2CfnIIKzqVVSZxuv7FRKfqJ7CgzDytrOEquohDoN2QpQr0K4SK2UftaG5JCCMcxl-1mq1h1g4GL9Ulipt26gbO2SzIvMt-pP4xfQNPmUxqGmCNR1BVagvAKHxbsGgWdRr/s320/02b+Snapchat-213446514.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAWNo-IIKuYqJw60aJWzqKtvi65xmtDVxAcrYjpLpCvTkkADd_9rgzh38bFujh0V40Esf4b7mSNVu-VAL_2AyB8r70JYcVjQTzexXSajC4nk8yXU4Wo54lQ41hy3vDYaHVdNErZj3G0fa/s1600/02f+20180423_235443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAWNo-IIKuYqJw60aJWzqKtvi65xmtDVxAcrYjpLpCvTkkADd_9rgzh38bFujh0V40Esf4b7mSNVu-VAL_2AyB8r70JYcVjQTzexXSajC4nk8yXU4Wo54lQ41hy3vDYaHVdNErZj3G0fa/s320/02f+20180423_235443.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If I was going to have to wear a <br />
medical ID for the rest of my life, I <br />
figured I might as well get a pretty one.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RPjppp7J6l_FMecZDf-YUchH3LvKk3emIulh4DQGeYruxnTCl7ylxJLlEo_mBxeCWoYv9H4NCMc-60MbpnlxLf69CG3xTwhv28JsLY9EjZL_c2gv6gVWCJ_1mTEAkHKCZMmccYk1ZVGu/s1600/02c+20170427_005015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RPjppp7J6l_FMecZDf-YUchH3LvKk3emIulh4DQGeYruxnTCl7ylxJLlEo_mBxeCWoYv9H4NCMc-60MbpnlxLf69CG3xTwhv28JsLY9EjZL_c2gv6gVWCJ_1mTEAkHKCZMmccYk1ZVGu/s320/02c+20170427_005015.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Band-aid upgrade from Mom</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiy2sp1-Qc2yWIpQRPzc6kDEar5OUuziiaxV666By21Qxfgasbo4yUuLW2i7zji9bV8aF2NYgu0-UBiOuu83RS_IAToeMPjRqNInlKd4vgJWudibroMDiWYDxj4PhWU8nqL6owy_6gfn5L/s1600/02d+Snapchat-1406715807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiy2sp1-Qc2yWIpQRPzc6kDEar5OUuziiaxV666By21Qxfgasbo4yUuLW2i7zji9bV8aF2NYgu0-UBiOuu83RS_IAToeMPjRqNInlKd4vgJWudibroMDiWYDxj4PhWU8nqL6owy_6gfn5L/s320/02d+Snapchat-1406715807.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVQl7Kmud1eoCkx29_R7kU8xpjOZgybF1NMGHz_RMCTLO0JNKGMlAMmauFzDsbggPgPvo84pwnI4vTdQfDv6JUVSouPcK3LOatmhEKdFDxw2JFhGQHp-nmMq3kPDhMBKxkTYfXiR9uQI9/s1600/20170623_163243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVQl7Kmud1eoCkx29_R7kU8xpjOZgybF1NMGHz_RMCTLO0JNKGMlAMmauFzDsbggPgPvo84pwnI4vTdQfDv6JUVSouPcK3LOatmhEKdFDxw2JFhGQHp-nmMq3kPDhMBKxkTYfXiR9uQI9/s320/20170623_163243.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">6/23/2017: Back in the ER. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">This was after the IV steroids </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">helped my hives subside.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEion7qAu0Rk4-zV9tLNKZysr4WtVsM1Xy-MeHRaxPCJGZB0gDKBBPMAQllqDiyMQjYvooMpbijxIIy-qDuYp02ML_MNTRpofkOZtmnZiYmFYa6bDXtYSLEkzc9AJQ6Rw9Ei6QL-YLOeKXi5/s1600/03a+20170516_143333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEion7qAu0Rk4-zV9tLNKZysr4WtVsM1Xy-MeHRaxPCJGZB0gDKBBPMAQllqDiyMQjYvooMpbijxIIy-qDuYp02ML_MNTRpofkOZtmnZiYmFYa6bDXtYSLEkzc9AJQ6Rw9Ei6QL-YLOeKXi5/s320/03a+20170516_143333.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Hospital follow-up: full body MRI with contrast.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXB7NMdogILkc_D6zs7Tc2IPkDD7YEyyg1P0kyDWaDeUQRgHCoEzYhbMjL9cM3nMiwoYImC6Q7VXTLeSESlt81MOFACvn0Aa4FEf3hmjgFESSx9Cc8t9CWCN3AqnYVSHUIhX72q-AfIpq/s1600/20171020_133122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXB7NMdogILkc_D6zs7Tc2IPkDD7YEyyg1P0kyDWaDeUQRgHCoEzYhbMjL9cM3nMiwoYImC6Q7VXTLeSESlt81MOFACvn0Aa4FEf3hmjgFESSx9Cc8t9CWCN3AqnYVSHUIhX72q-AfIpq/s320/20171020_133122.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">6-month MRI scans of head & neck.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Y'all, I've had enough of the hospital gowns.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhApyxt2N01onJNyo-d-1H8ECWrl0l3aqYgpYoFBVUeKfcsogLD-MQuA5mGGWFUPFih-GgWeoPUvd68G1u9C3jWm0gQBCGcBgV2v0VssXYCV0hhOwETEghHQo2z4lKZ7MlJICYaN5_QuBBa/s1600/20171020_135810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhApyxt2N01onJNyo-d-1H8ECWrl0l3aqYgpYoFBVUeKfcsogLD-MQuA5mGGWFUPFih-GgWeoPUvd68G1u9C3jWm0gQBCGcBgV2v0VssXYCV0hhOwETEghHQo2z4lKZ7MlJICYaN5_QuBBa/s400/20171020_135810.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cool ceiling in the MRI room</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZe4l_HQNmABlTmDXNtvwjsDagfAsna8ZRqRlnKiGemU_lp5x2jP1R-_jpioCjA8yQlOaHa2ohJgdDOyLrFU1l9gjKeXWOxTk5NbP_NzeqR9smJ8rRZ7l0j2G3-mr_2hHdPFrkuTuDuYiM/s1600/20170516_152022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZe4l_HQNmABlTmDXNtvwjsDagfAsna8ZRqRlnKiGemU_lp5x2jP1R-_jpioCjA8yQlOaHa2ohJgdDOyLrFU1l9gjKeXWOxTk5NbP_NzeqR9smJ8rRZ7l0j2G3-mr_2hHdPFrkuTuDuYiM/s400/20170516_152022.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10r2ALP98ucyYxVjopugPa1xUynVwxfBNy94dLVhJDqxug1tJMSJw7zSI4H2MMxIPfEqJ4P05Gx5EGvQJUBav5wkU-KqhT9TmVk5cZUuS8U67_ktrD8P9NIx88HGICFuogBcoDKCxG3yn/s1600/03b+Snapchat-1837847249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10r2ALP98ucyYxVjopugPa1xUynVwxfBNy94dLVhJDqxug1tJMSJw7zSI4H2MMxIPfEqJ4P05Gx5EGvQJUBav5wkU-KqhT9TmVk5cZUuS8U67_ktrD8P9NIx88HGICFuogBcoDKCxG3yn/s320/03b+Snapchat-1837847249.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqD06BM0Fr3LY3oiJ59Y19XBghRU84UJqQd5HTk3hc8TgCfTJXxDg5i3FTmh2JEMFsumblbqRE2KSdBZvrCPnWgXmHGKU3hqVrRVogrcRe0GRkxIOVw3O4unGZW1ANF2PAE8Z8AagnZgp-/s1600/20170516_175228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqD06BM0Fr3LY3oiJ59Y19XBghRU84UJqQd5HTk3hc8TgCfTJXxDg5i3FTmh2JEMFsumblbqRE2KSdBZvrCPnWgXmHGKU3hqVrRVogrcRe0GRkxIOVw3O4unGZW1ANF2PAE8Z8AagnZgp-/s320/20170516_175228.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Different color every week.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEMhdN7TGcfC7N56jycBvmO6lCHpQKVwjIzmGeaFzaIIyrzH2UaSV6ipxOw91ouuX6T2XsiyuCMQel6alonPFmjPnuYPWChVYaGOYcB7QHaIW694W4TjmX3ZJnHqdOh-EcLcb0rjnocUu/s1600/20171020_133830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEMhdN7TGcfC7N56jycBvmO6lCHpQKVwjIzmGeaFzaIIyrzH2UaSV6ipxOw91ouuX6T2XsiyuCMQel6alonPFmjPnuYPWChVYaGOYcB7QHaIW694W4TjmX3ZJnHqdOh-EcLcb0rjnocUu/s320/20171020_133830.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKNFrcTlVAtEPllVnD5OmW5GYYjG-ts11ReVJhd3aC1H6TpsOZ9oPgENW1bHDqjS7shyphenhyphenMcR8CGQzc5OfFcRTudrVXqzkNdmlo9t9avdexNXxTeJe1rIQETgvODZcEQD7rtyOMeOzQ1HH0/s1600/20170607_120616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKNFrcTlVAtEPllVnD5OmW5GYYjG-ts11ReVJhd3aC1H6TpsOZ9oPgENW1bHDqjS7shyphenhyphenMcR8CGQzc5OfFcRTudrVXqzkNdmlo9t9avdexNXxTeJe1rIQETgvODZcEQD7rtyOMeOzQ1HH0/s640/20170607_120616.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">6/07/2017: Went to a presentation by my vascular surgeon, Dr. Jeremiah Johnson.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2EN7_C4PzcN1d93sNpXGAXEjNYymexKtg8rYCwfjfV8ZMLvvhPWph5ocMImYRuJUk0fEEKtP9HWiH-OCkzh9NGr-RZTCXeTsbyg2b5hDW6scZKJ603IxdL_t1p33zfB8u_h7ttb1WGyg/s320/Snapchat-323280066.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="180" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">When taking Coumadin (warfarin),</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Vitamin K interferes with the </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">effectiveness </span><span style="font-size: small;">of the drug to thin the blood.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I really missed having salads!</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj46Cxd1wOlB4A8lz0phCpCFbK2SRI57xdVbmUMBnB-8B9KR4kK6FQD-I_QGLIdOyO2zgVvJx-GG6lqs6PYmpvnpftWFcx5Ol_c7g20tVBQaplckLYnbPRFf6UaNJY1zT2NtacWUPL4SzDJ/s1600/20170516_180645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj46Cxd1wOlB4A8lz0phCpCFbK2SRI57xdVbmUMBnB-8B9KR4kK6FQD-I_QGLIdOyO2zgVvJx-GG6lqs6PYmpvnpftWFcx5Ol_c7g20tVBQaplckLYnbPRFf6UaNJY1zT2NtacWUPL4SzDJ/s400/20170516_180645.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Coming soon.... wedding post! 👰🤵💗</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-44603129382911356832017-04-22T23:50:00.002-05:002017-04-24T01:08:31.125-05:00Two Hospitals, One Ambulance, Five Days<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some of you may have heard that I was in the hospital
recently. Over the past few days, I have
finally had a chance to do some research into my current health situation in an attempt to better understand it myself. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am sharing my story w</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ith the hope that it can help inform others
who have not heard of these conditions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you have any
questions, suggestions or feedback,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">please feel free
to leave a comment here or to get in touch with me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: large;">◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆◇</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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It is a bit surreal to recall that, just last week, my life was a whirlwind of
hospital beds, doctors, nurses, specialists, daily bloodwork, neurological
examinations, imaging tests, procedures, and an ambulance ride. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ultimately,
I was diagnosed with a rare condition called <b>carotid artery dissection</b>,
which puts me at high risk for having a stroke. In some cases, this
condition leads to partial blockage of blood flow through the carotid artery to
the brain. In my case, however, the internal carotid artery on my right
side is <i>completely</i> blocked. I might also have a vascular
disease called <b>fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD)</b>, which might have
caused the carotid artery dissection. I’ll be getting further testing to
determine if arteries in other areas of my body are affected by FMD. I've
also heard that there is a genetic test I may be able to take, so for my
relatives reading this – I will keep you posted. I also need to see an
ophthalmologist to determine what damage might have occurred to my right eye.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am
so unbelievably lucky that I did not have a stroke. The vascular surgeon
agreed with my mom that I had “dodged a bullet”. I had no bleeding in my
brain. I had no neurological deficits.
Apparently, my body was able to compensate for the blocked blood flow
from the carotid artery by developing new vascular pathways to keep enough
blood going to my brain. How amazing is that? The human body is
such a delicate, complicated, incredible network of moving parts that never
ceases to astound me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please watch this brief video about FMD (less
than 2 minutes): </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/MyQSjG61amU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MyQSjG61amU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is a good overview of</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> carotid artery dissection</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/757906-overview#showall" target="_blank">http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/757906-overview#showall</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Five days in the hospital felt
like so much longer. I am grateful to
have access to high quality medical care close by, here in Houston. I am so grateful for all of the people who
helped me out along the way. It is
amazing how many different people one patient interacts with. I am grateful to no longer be tethered to all
the cords that made it challenging to sleep, get out of bed, and go to the
bathroom – heart rate monitor, blood pressure monitor, IV line, an oxygen
sensor taped onto my index finger, and compression devices attached to my lower legs
to prevent blood clots. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was finally able to go home
one week ago, last Friday evening, where I’ve been instructed to get a lot of
rest and to “take it easy”. I have been prescribed </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: 0.5in;">blood thinners for long-term use, and </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: 0.5in;">pain medication and muscle relaxers for short-term use. The hope is that the blood thinners will help
my blood to flow better around the blockage and eventually begin to relieve the
pressure and pain on the right side of my head.
They will also reduce my risk of blood clots and stroke. I’ve been instructed to stop taking my
migraine prescription (Imitrex) and Advil, and to take Tylenol instead. Unfortunately, Tylenol doesn’t seem to work
very well for me. I am not sure how long
it will take to get back to “normal”. I
can’t read or write for extended periods of time without my eye and head
hurting, but I’m hopeful that I’ll be able to get back to my coursework and maybe
even finish off the spring semester on time.
The first few nights back home were a little rough, but I finally
started feeling some improvement a couple days ago, so I am becoming more
optimistic about my recovery process. I
am still experiencing some pain every day, but it has definitely gotten better. There is even a possibility that the
dissection will heal and the blockage will go away. I’ll be going back to the hospital for a
follow-up imaging test in 3 to 6 months to check on that. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Meanwhile, I’ve been catching up
on my favorite podcasts and charting out my new normal. One of my priorities is figuring out how to update my desk
setup so it is more ergonomic and minimizes strain on my neck, back and
eyes. I’m also trying to plan out a good
exercise program going forward. I want
to improve my vascular health – and if I can continue working on getting more
fit before my wedding in 7 months, that would be a fantastic bonus. However, I was told not to lift more than
10lbs or do ab work for the next 6 months because it can cause too much
strain. I can walk and jog, so I might
look into getting a treadmill or elliptical.
I was given the go-ahead to do cardio exercises, but nothing that causes
too much strain, particularly for my neck and head. Any recommendations? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If anyone wants to be a walking
buddy, let me know! There are some great
parks and neighborhoods around Houston and near me.</span></div>
</div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></span><br>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For
anyone interested in hearing a longer version of what my week in the hospital was
like, here goes...</span></span><br>
<br>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: 4pt; text-align: left;">
<u><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Monday 4/10</span></u></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last Monday morning, April 10<sup>th</sup>,
Seth took me to the emergency room at <b>Cypress
Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital</b> in northwest Houston with pretty bad head and
neck pain on my right side that had worsened over a few days. The peripheral vision of my right eye had
also been affected. My migraine medicine
– sumatriptan (Imitrex) – and some Advil had kept the situation manageable enough
from Wednesday through Saturday. Thinking
it was nothing more than a persistent headache, I was just trying to make it
through some schoolwork that was due Sunday and Monday for my online
classes. Since it was unusual for a
headache to last so long, I planned to go see a doctor on Tuesday. But by Sunday night, the pain kept me from
sleeping. The medicine wasn’t helping
anymore. Just laying my head on the
pillow made the pain worse. I felt
pressure in my ear and wondered if I possibly had an earache. It hurt to sneeze. My neck hurt so much whenever I swallowed. The right side of my face was sensitive to
even the lightest touch, especially around my temple, ear, and jaw joint. My neck was also sensitive to touch under the
jawline and at the right lymph node. I
knew this was definitely more than “just a migraine”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Even so, I didn’t expect to be
admitted to the hospital overnight, much less for the entire week. At the ER, I first got bloodwork to check
whether my kidneys were healthy enough for me to get a CT scan. Apparently the contrast dye used in
diagnostic imaging such as CT scans can damage kidneys. The ER doctor, Dr. Hall, put numbing drops in
my eyes (those really stung) and used a device to measure my eye pressure. All looked good so far. <span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span></span></div>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDoCl-0N1m4uDlZtoACKZXifZmtLzOoMgzHgRIyL4BRJeb1nyTLst_FxLVbh5hyDif7UdwDSfQdSqLN1s2NND3L7ATpo42wKYoMes-peneGQ3YHgziwTPIchZtEvSmWZvougrfQgdSF06/s1600/-+20170410_113823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDoCl-0N1m4uDlZtoACKZXifZmtLzOoMgzHgRIyL4BRJeb1nyTLst_FxLVbh5hyDif7UdwDSfQdSqLN1s2NND3L7ATpo42wKYoMes-peneGQ3YHgziwTPIchZtEvSmWZvougrfQgdSF06/s320/-+20170410_113823.jpg" width="240"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Q8j8C5nDXF3b36wUgsUtP2G7YIjX8-9oQRSjRosVuwK-VkTGDKDNbf3hmJ9bg8vIR53AJDhG0fHdnnKBXTJvh_1su1WZ15DgC61vv1o0qrQfKr0ZgK0e3dButmzQV298Jq3AxBaKZx-0/s1600/-+20170410_100950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Q8j8C5nDXF3b36wUgsUtP2G7YIjX8-9oQRSjRosVuwK-VkTGDKDNbf3hmJ9bg8vIR53AJDhG0fHdnnKBXTJvh_1su1WZ15DgC61vv1o0qrQfKr0ZgK0e3dButmzQV298Jq3AxBaKZx-0/s320/-+20170410_100950.jpg" width="179"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9AUImOjm1lVr_whRn-K8x7cV1lDfjPd-WzLg07KDAWfDorsXHZ9RZ3uUByq46Qrrox9qWR6NA-gnU-vWubgcU40Z9uv8ZOVENo_DMk1eIhuQj988uFbR_-7JSD-HXALOHQzI_ld1FYko/s1600/-+20170410_101050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9AUImOjm1lVr_whRn-K8x7cV1lDfjPd-WzLg07KDAWfDorsXHZ9RZ3uUByq46Qrrox9qWR6NA-gnU-vWubgcU40Z9uv8ZOVENo_DMk1eIhuQj988uFbR_-7JSD-HXALOHQzI_ld1FYko/s320/-+20170410_101050.jpg" width="179"> </a></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was able to get the <b>CT angiogram scan</b>, which examined the
blood vessels and arteries in my head and neck.
When the contrast dye was injected into my IV line, it was a pretty odd
sensation. First a slightly metallic
taste arises in the back of your throat, then a warm sensation spreads through
your chest, trunk of your body, and limbs.
I was warned that it might feel like you’re peeing in your pants for a
minute! It sorta did!! The scan didn’t last too long, then I was
taken back to the private ER room to rest.
I think it was about an hour later when Dr. Hall came by to let us know
he had taken a preliminary look at the scans and luckily did not see any masses
or bleeding. That was welcome news. While we were waiting for the radiologist’s
official report, he said I could get a “migraine cocktail” – start with some
pain medication, add Benadryl, throw in a steroid, and top it off with an
anti-nausea med. I was definitely ready
for some pain relief. Before leaving the
room, he said, “Hopefully it’s just a migraine, and you can head home
soon.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br>
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2G6be5wIKqrdaMkdoo3Bvg486bTsorh3X0hWXxeUCvin5CsyRS_h-S_ANoEbE1l2_vaLJhdhT9Jrnq5r2fCNS_JhVd-nGklOUMRHuFPv1fiCunVzUDXm98Czj4Yr5-n7M7e0uwcPUqO7/s1600/-+Snapchat-1443795922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2G6be5wIKqrdaMkdoo3Bvg486bTsorh3X0hWXxeUCvin5CsyRS_h-S_ANoEbE1l2_vaLJhdhT9Jrnq5r2fCNS_JhVd-nGklOUMRHuFPv1fiCunVzUDXm98Czj4Yr5-n7M7e0uwcPUqO7/s320/-+Snapchat-1443795922.jpg" width="180"></a></span></div>
<br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I asked the nurse, Brad, what a
person could do for some food around here.
He told Seth where the cafeteria was, but said I couldn’t eat anything
yet since they were not yet sure of my diagnosis. Oh well, at least I had my cocktail
coming. We joked with Brad that he must
have learned bartending as part of his medical training. Each part of the “cocktail” was administered
directly into my IV line, just like the iodine dye had been. One of the meds made my entire backside feel
tingly, like I was laying on a thousand tiny needles. I kind of jumped up at first, saying “It
feels prickly!” Brad gave me a quizzical
look and said, “Prickly...?” Then, when
the Benadryl was administered, I suddenly got really cold and it made my teeth chatter
like crazy. I felt like one of those
wind-up toys of the chomping set of teeth.
So, that was strange, but also funny as I lay there loudly chattering
away for a while. Thankfully a nurse came
back with a big, magical blanket, nice and warm like it was fresh out of the
dryer, and draped it over me – oh man, that was the best moment ever. The warmth of the blanket and drowsiness from
the Benadryl lulled me to sleep for a little while. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I’m not sure how much time
passed before I was abruptly awakened by Dr. Hall talking to me. He told me that according to the CT scan it
looks like I have something called a carotid artery dissection; that they would
be admitting me into the hospital and I would be there overnight. All I remember saying was, “Huh? Overnight?”
I was still waking up and trying to figure out what the heck was going
on. That was certainly the moment we realized
that $#!+ just got <i>real</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQez3jWvanTcgBst9t-rwF5ielTQ7zgAHQiaQ3GCXQGIUwpObcu6a5fba-8LmMLOVjtUUGKNjeYCa8ZYmDyzLNbkVvekXjQRB4UXp3hnKtP5AH-LEYqPqI4mGNuA8coH-5nprWho5qQP7s/s1600/-+01+EXP0011+-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQez3jWvanTcgBst9t-rwF5ielTQ7zgAHQiaQ3GCXQGIUwpObcu6a5fba-8LmMLOVjtUUGKNjeYCa8ZYmDyzLNbkVvekXjQRB4UXp3hnKtP5AH-LEYqPqI4mGNuA8coH-5nprWho5qQP7s/s320/-+01+EXP0011+-.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">MRI image. Now I know what I'd look like without hair.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While waiting for a hospital room
to become available, I was started on blood thinners (two shots to my stomach
each day) plus one aspirin a day. Seth
started googling carotid artery dissection.
Around 5pm I had an <b>MRI of my
brain</b>, then we finally settled into our private hospital room around 6pm,
and learned that we were now just waiting to meet with a neurologist and a
vascular surgeon. No one seemed sure yet
if I would need some type of procedure or surgery that same day, but I was finally
allowed to eat around 7pm. My parents came
over for a while that evening, and Seth spent the night in the hospital room
with me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB2tdkOMesIpb9HEJtNr-70fXSM4NstDGgxD3hvsH1u99-L6o5-UCd_hAX1ng4tzM6N14qcq-S_zN2TWMqVIiVS_0Ij1rptw8fK-_d7Y7hnSTQXlJVbMb8HcfTpClOC0RsBzjLCqqoU5oK/s1600/-+20170410_184002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB2tdkOMesIpb9HEJtNr-70fXSM4NstDGgxD3hvsH1u99-L6o5-UCd_hAX1ng4tzM6N14qcq-S_zN2TWMqVIiVS_0Ij1rptw8fK-_d7Y7hnSTQXlJVbMb8HcfTpClOC0RsBzjLCqqoU5oK/s320/-+20170410_184002.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner: meatloaf, mashed potatoes,<br>
and squishy flavorless vegetables.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVcjJp5UvZpikaJV-pkm70aokPCvF9ooPj4_a6-WCaCUYTv4VsRxRFDl8Zw-TBXCmpmQ3WJ9hfIwvByA4d81-Hxw9WKO6Lkcl4O668GrDSD_3fMSSapdmNzROgWoEMKwbD_l8fqaXXtEY-/s1600/-+20170410_190109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVcjJp5UvZpikaJV-pkm70aokPCvF9ooPj4_a6-WCaCUYTv4VsRxRFDl8Zw-TBXCmpmQ3WJ9hfIwvByA4d81-Hxw9WKO6Lkcl4O668GrDSD_3fMSSapdmNzROgWoEMKwbD_l8fqaXXtEY-/s320/-+20170410_190109.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Room with a view. Nice after being in the<br>
window-less dungeon of the ER all day. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDYLX_xtbTP7LSiSuZjRHo-rXoUx5MZUsp9c92s1IxCTJomwzJ4WePu_mDjee1TFR4f4M8FOitTKbb5rUdjd9DAcbt8SgiQzE64Oq3RlhgtTxHCObeezTOl0Jp_PZnpPlcehv-8riio7C/s1600/-+20170411_000040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDYLX_xtbTP7LSiSuZjRHo-rXoUx5MZUsp9c92s1IxCTJomwzJ4WePu_mDjee1TFR4f4M8FOitTKbb5rUdjd9DAcbt8SgiQzE64Oq3RlhgtTxHCObeezTOl0Jp_PZnpPlcehv-8riio7C/s320/-+20170411_000040.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seth's accommodations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: 4pt; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtBdzob0PnUekmawaBNDofYbrBWODxwr1d6m1r8Bs6_6RGOKWgTJmwAein3r3J5ZhX41Si2ZvYy-BYO3MjTGVugLIFFMkIyL63DUuyzgLSwlgfvqZS2Bez67Yc0yW3Pmc7INwTgHrK0hz/s1600/-+20170410_190759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtBdzob0PnUekmawaBNDofYbrBWODxwr1d6m1r8Bs6_6RGOKWgTJmwAein3r3J5ZhX41Si2ZvYy-BYO3MjTGVugLIFFMkIyL63DUuyzgLSwlgfvqZS2Bez67Yc0yW3Pmc7INwTgHrK0hz/s320/-+20170410_190759.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">OOTD! Rockin' my new duds</span><br>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">and feeling good after my migraine cocktail</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtBdzob0PnUekmawaBNDofYbrBWODxwr1d6m1r8Bs6_6RGOKWgTJmwAein3r3J5ZhX41Si2ZvYy-BYO3MjTGVugLIFFMkIyL63DUuyzgLSwlgfvqZS2Bez67Yc0yW3Pmc7INwTgHrK0hz/s1600/-+20170410_190759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a></h3>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: 4pt; text-align: left;">
<u><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Tuesday 4/11</b></span></u></h3>
<br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmvOOlum1pMvQPNc8ha_fTN5kvvt-HWaLpyL0Qc17rtmrYOQnmKjwocbkGBz-t3DllUvKnwIk4nRgA_foJOxrg-9AuezTr-kxJ3qfPUAqedFogipBNiZDZi50qdxhpsCeHp3uRK1T5mfa/s1600/-+20170411_092751+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmvOOlum1pMvQPNc8ha_fTN5kvvt-HWaLpyL0Qc17rtmrYOQnmKjwocbkGBz-t3DllUvKnwIk4nRgA_foJOxrg-9AuezTr-kxJ3qfPUAqedFogipBNiZDZi50qdxhpsCeHp3uRK1T5mfa/s320/-+20170411_092751+crop.jpg" width="244"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">EEG Medusa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom came over around 7am every
day to stay with me and Seth, and to be there whenever the medical personnel
and specialists came in to check on me, discuss test results, etc. On Tuesday, I had an <b>EEG test</b>, which turned me into Medusa for a while with 22 electrode
wires stuck all over my head (and which left lovely globs of Vaseline-like gunk
stuck all throughout my hair, blech). I
also had an ultrasound of my heart – an <b>echocardiogram</b>
– and got to watch my heart pumping on the screen and ask questions about what
she was observing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: 0.5in;">My dad, my brother Gabriel, and
his girlfriend Sydney came over that afternoon to provide entertainment, great
company, and bring Thai food for dinner.
Every time someone entered the small room, I loved the look of surprise
on their face upon realizing that 6 people were already crammed in there. When the neurologist came by to examine me,
the party had to move out into the hall for a bit. As my dad later said, “there was so much
silliness and hilarity that we decided to give her a break the rest of the week
so she could rest.” Thank you, Gabriel
and Sydney, for spending your last day in Houston together hanging out with
little ol’ me! </span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicE2zzwtFyQWS9LdnZHSMAKJZ7IiOXgzAxL2E9Y4yRvpPSPcxh_YszaNrZcs85j5SmkABKXOQ0ClG6NcMDRA6QmXwgimBcAidei7lBqwchLMrTPsEs653QbFfa0e88r07loC5TRerOVnnl/s1600/-+20170411_150543%25280%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicE2zzwtFyQWS9LdnZHSMAKJZ7IiOXgzAxL2E9Y4yRvpPSPcxh_YszaNrZcs85j5SmkABKXOQ0ClG6NcMDRA6QmXwgimBcAidei7lBqwchLMrTPsEs653QbFfa0e88r07loC5TRerOVnnl/s320/-+20170411_150543%25280%2529.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aptly named game: Escape the Room</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFL8FlxcpbGQwyu-A9a4j_Ml6quCs_lg-9XP3rlnsg_72WmJOkF1zN__r0aJA95uu9JN8nAwiN2MoUe3gE3mRaA4VqVrFIZOEBNNhs7jgCe1bg_gB1ZBOnSBY2K7LfYsjoMwlyeeXEO8a/s1600/-+20170411_193125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFL8FlxcpbGQwyu-A9a4j_Ml6quCs_lg-9XP3rlnsg_72WmJOkF1zN__r0aJA95uu9JN8nAwiN2MoUe3gE3mRaA4VqVrFIZOEBNNhs7jgCe1bg_gB1ZBOnSBY2K7LfYsjoMwlyeeXEO8a/s320/-+20170411_193125.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigRm-yF8qbZf5SqiPRZN698b27WUu14lhQaNamT5cAfsaUyxRFMhV9QS5FXksGbb1A6Ff4p9eorFzFIwa2f1xNmdBjKsYLxWUDjj8efUHGIlKCcK_0M6B2dBG6dpACk0bgg2r3Uf-Q6YlG/s1600/-+20170411_193130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigRm-yF8qbZf5SqiPRZN698b27WUu14lhQaNamT5cAfsaUyxRFMhV9QS5FXksGbb1A6Ff4p9eorFzFIwa2f1xNmdBjKsYLxWUDjj8efUHGIlKCcK_0M6B2dBG6dpACk0bgg2r3Uf-Q6YlG/s320/-+20170411_193130.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Wednesday 4/12</span></b></u><br>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If we had to be stranded in the
hospital for a while, we were definitely grateful that it was just down the
street from our favorite local restaurant, <a href="http://www.marioshouse.com/" target="_blank">Mario’s Taco & Burger House</a> – just what
the doctor ordered! Seth made a breakfast
taco run Wednesday morning, and I had to laugh when he handed me my potato
taco. Medicinal, indeed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczJ2Y0Q2ZlzMlgA-sjR-z_-Zgc17K6RkMvP9UliJeuBW0k7GFzwTyNNyPNpK1hEyXR_wo9CoReIYdfLptjqjIUldsOXMEXCcsOjCYFUqUjQHlkeWyzoQSZ01cspAOGIoZLYxZ04AYvuPy/s1600/-+20170412_124942.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczJ2Y0Q2ZlzMlgA-sjR-z_-Zgc17K6RkMvP9UliJeuBW0k7GFzwTyNNyPNpK1hEyXR_wo9CoReIYdfLptjqjIUldsOXMEXCcsOjCYFUqUjQHlkeWyzoQSZ01cspAOGIoZLYxZ04AYvuPy/s320/-+20170412_124942.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkgLDsNU7XkN5tS_DQW3dGmhy-daLM7f-r1FI2UQGatwUomsBuq6Lhcww2XO50L_yfebWjCvtEMpnu8v5F16YvQ8ynwuckcgyeXmYD9DJrS6BMfB7P8PxqhkkyC3gfC5I6WTlZFPi_h0_/s1600/02+-+05+EXP0247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkgLDsNU7XkN5tS_DQW3dGmhy-daLM7f-r1FI2UQGatwUomsBuq6Lhcww2XO50L_yfebWjCvtEMpnu8v5F16YvQ8ynwuckcgyeXmYD9DJrS6BMfB7P8PxqhkkyC3gfC5I6WTlZFPi_h0_/s320/02+-+05+EXP0247.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you spy what's missing on this MRA?<br>
Hint: my right side is shown on the left of the image.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wednesday morning, we finally
got to meet with the vascular surgeon, who recommended that I be transferred to
another hospital for an angiogram. He
was the first person to mention the possibility of FMD being involved. I got another MRI – this time it was an <b>MRA of my neck</b>. After lunch I finally took a shower, which
was so nice just to be able to be out of bed for a while after two days of
being confined to beds and wheelchairs. We
packed up, and once all the transfer paperwork was complete, I was transferred
via <b>ambulance</b> to the <b>Neuroscience ICU at St. Luke’s</b> <b>Hospital
</b>in the Medical Center. Mom rode in the
ambulance with me, while Seth went home to prepare for staying at the new hospital
with me for a few days. Honestly, the
ambulance ride was a nice distraction for a little while. When they wheeled me outside on the
stretcher, before loading me into the back of the ambulance, it felt SO good
just to be outside and feel the sunshine again.
It was nice to watch the world outside of the ambulance windows,
too. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfeoVohETPRYlBOjhCIWryWya9tmYi1cZoZQa-f2Xed-g9iq11zSalkTw9frp52bEBTGvodMAan_tmyrqTPGZcJRJrfZ_NeGrXtfZyYPKRU24j9yMLgFJJMj7LMz0JLc_I8K5eyo-OhcPu/s1600/-+20170412_165019+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfeoVohETPRYlBOjhCIWryWya9tmYi1cZoZQa-f2Xed-g9iq11zSalkTw9frp52bEBTGvodMAan_tmyrqTPGZcJRJrfZ_NeGrXtfZyYPKRU24j9yMLgFJJMj7LMz0JLc_I8K5eyo-OhcPu/s320/-+20170412_165019+crop.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farewell, Room 330</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw9jYiNYKo0NswhZKNMrFilhjd0GcDkdCCua15SiZcvk_4QHQvYEs5StIEAKRlZt8JA3gICCFVjtJsUk3YeZA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfeoVohETPRYlBOjhCIWryWya9tmYi1cZoZQa-f2Xed-g9iq11zSalkTw9frp52bEBTGvodMAan_tmyrqTPGZcJRJrfZ_NeGrXtfZyYPKRU24j9yMLgFJJMj7LMz0JLc_I8K5eyo-OhcPu/s1600/-+20170412_165019+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxKX63WSFfOctqsx9a_EuAlECQfvk_5vvzeUa_6-25IVUuNY1Hlv-dgUrVidvst01bFLmTAJRh7f3BPmkctVg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>
</a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgy6eOkvB05yrbu-vQ0ZPoY7BO3AJlQ-GJBpPj7f_wrV0uyyazltJCM5xiFRmfRmLV0Ry14TtDXiT-Wod17GPSjRtutsExYjgFTYZEgZX6sKAB7u9wzhf4y6ZagmwM2aHdWHNfAFhMdSZ4/s1600/05+-+20170412_192309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgy6eOkvB05yrbu-vQ0ZPoY7BO3AJlQ-GJBpPj7f_wrV0uyyazltJCM5xiFRmfRmLV0Ry14TtDXiT-Wod17GPSjRtutsExYjgFTYZEgZX6sKAB7u9wzhf4y6ZagmwM2aHdWHNfAFhMdSZ4/s320/05+-+20170412_192309.jpg" width="179"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first (and hopefully last) ambulance ride</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnVqqbmNwhIWc5d3hmTU8aC-FnBPBf08pqiML4m0WX71pGhOfnvKYAYmzBVaREXIGzeDDo8NcObr1aUGblpB0Z2RaZLtJHo6C4APvx1m3ec-TvE4JgP92aSJLGx8r71W5T2yosJP5KvMDa/s320/06+-+Snapchat-1611415019.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="180"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom 💚💗💜 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: 0.5in;">By the time I got settled into
the new room, it was around 8pm, and I was told not to eat or drink after
midnight in case I was getting the angiogram the next day. The hospital cafeteria was already closed, but
thankfully I was able to request dinner from the Lamanuzzi Kitchen, which Seth
delivered upon his arrival. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKOqyvVpYmRuAVZEZpcXS0NlFUCYZHYEzcXkFMFhlF_02o8cc61vpgi1Vspgmmz0mCchBQLJKqExDLn-i-X9bFcjozbOQ2kiDFfQ8MkbDABvFmGEMYFkjt1B5-twUxtubPyW2YZm-VMI0/s1600/08+-+20170412_225110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKOqyvVpYmRuAVZEZpcXS0NlFUCYZHYEzcXkFMFhlF_02o8cc61vpgi1Vspgmmz0mCchBQLJKqExDLn-i-X9bFcjozbOQ2kiDFfQ8MkbDABvFmGEMYFkjt1B5-twUxtubPyW2YZm-VMI0/s320/08+-+20170412_225110.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandwich, fruit & cheetos, made fresh<br>
from the Lamanuzzi Kitchen<br>
with love and silliness.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRV3nUmU7ShoJ9xYxEZedCZtcz5oLP0XpHf2Y_7gySN24OO7f02chPd-AY-Z9l8GVK_isuic0cCSnNUK8gztrmR1HeK6JCpCq5EgZWxm2Fwt8zAO7VMWevmiWFV0SX18ByCDfqT5KdDp5/s1600/09+-+20170412_235459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRV3nUmU7ShoJ9xYxEZedCZtcz5oLP0XpHf2Y_7gySN24OO7f02chPd-AY-Z9l8GVK_isuic0cCSnNUK8gztrmR1HeK6JCpCq5EgZWxm2Fwt8zAO7VMWevmiWFV0SX18ByCDfqT5KdDp5/s320/09+-+20170412_235459.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just some light bedtime reading</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWj29ZmmYlfdrxDKJVoUEKMQSwkapRcuP18SjZGqQ8dndbc9lPzRN_1pcEg0b_ssaS7owTUTHQ5V2EtRv76Oe83xt89kOZtsgCyRC5TlY-xXlA9rpUa1xdR2rp-4R2pCrgkha2Uun5x_0i/s1600/10+-+20170413_000020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWj29ZmmYlfdrxDKJVoUEKMQSwkapRcuP18SjZGqQ8dndbc9lPzRN_1pcEg0b_ssaS7owTUTHQ5V2EtRv76Oe83xt89kOZtsgCyRC5TlY-xXlA9rpUa1xdR2rp-4R2pCrgkha2Uun5x_0i/s320/10+-+20170413_000020.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hospital guest bed #2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<br>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: 4pt; text-align: left;">
<u><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Thursday 4/13</b></span></u></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Thursday
morning brought a new round of doctors to re-tell my story and symptoms to, and
to continue the neurological exams. It
had become a kind of game for me, like an ice-breaker game for every new doctor
or medical student who came to see me. Each
person had a slightly different technique for doing the exam. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“Cover one eye. How many fingers am I holding up? Now how many?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">*brushes fingers along both
sides of my face* “Does this feel the same on both sides?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">*snaps near left ear* “Can you
hear this?” *now right ear* “How about
this?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“Hold both of your arms out,
palms up. Now push against me, don’t let
me bend your arm. Don’t let me bend your leg.
Don’t let me move your foot. Now
pull against me, don’t let me straighten your arms.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“Clench your jaw.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“Say ahh.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">*while moving their finger
around in the air* “Touch my finger, then your nose, now my finger again, and
your nose again.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Etc., etc. They also hammered all over my arms and legs
to test my reflexes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9Gt_ZAd84juU3yBiViLYyJvnZEFy-Qkl0IbDaOBi3dwQ6XHuzo0rwowpkzJ_wiLKNI0m7hCpxSFIh4dZ3Q5b7AT5pxP1HwtICu6sF64rnkopz9heKdTzUgyrkZLT9-q3hyphenhyphenATxESfzVmt/s1600/01+-+20170413_091140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9Gt_ZAd84juU3yBiViLYyJvnZEFy-Qkl0IbDaOBi3dwQ6XHuzo0rwowpkzJ_wiLKNI0m7hCpxSFIh4dZ3Q5b7AT5pxP1HwtICu6sF64rnkopz9heKdTzUgyrkZLT9-q3hyphenhyphenATxESfzVmt/s320/01+-+20170413_091140.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Room 7S4-7</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All of a sudden they were ready to take me away for the
angiogram at 7am. We requested to speak
with the vascular surgeon or neurology fellow, and were able to have a nice
conversation with both of them to get a better understanding of the procedure and to ask some questions. Unfortunately, that
meant we missed our time slot and I couldn’t eat or drink for 6 more hours
until they could fit me in for the procedure later in the day. Luckily I was doing better this morning due
to another “migraine cocktail” I’d been given the night before, so I was
finally feeling well enough to make a few phone calls to friends and
family. Having been on the other side of
a loved one’s hospitalization before, I know how relieving it can be to
actually hear that person’s voice, and it was healing for me as the patient as
well. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> At
1:30pm, the nurses wheeled my entire gigantic hospital bed out of the room and
through the halls, turning on the <i>self-driving
mode</i> of the bed – who knew?? That
was fun. Before I went in for the angiogram,
two of the medical personnel couldn’t agree where my pulse was in my feet and I
ended up with black and red permanent marker X’s decorating my feet. Also fun.
The procedure took about an hour and a half, I think. Check out these cool images they got: </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL05VqwldFKE492BgKdxAMTWSAv-yh2544ri90Ex2Zi54VKPTp_X7P9TrD38lDGyKG5h_G1Yenck8Zr_KuJGnSDqR2pKYA7M-29M4Ea472SGbGnVT7TZa-UmIHQEbbt8hTO0OqorUNZX2T/s1600/02a+2017-043+Dissection+text2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL05VqwldFKE492BgKdxAMTWSAv-yh2544ri90Ex2Zi54VKPTp_X7P9TrD38lDGyKG5h_G1Yenck8Zr_KuJGnSDqR2pKYA7M-29M4Ea472SGbGnVT7TZa-UmIHQEbbt8hTO0OqorUNZX2T/s640/02a+2017-043+Dissection+text2.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">In the image on the right, the dissection is seen in the lower-right, just above the </span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">spot </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">where the main artery branches into the internal & external segments. </span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AjGXd_F5RhL3Z_VnQ0e3pwoQ74dlgH_tgvkW81q62hL06JvbqbcdiTl3ilGeo7cXfBc5Pa2A5Q7j9-nNMynV3ULZE4QN0VomoWX6CWqqz9S0v80cfEF5VTYGjOigtYRhhO-vKv7Nh_7q/s1600/02b+2017-042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AjGXd_F5RhL3Z_VnQ0e3pwoQ74dlgH_tgvkW81q62hL06JvbqbcdiTl3ilGeo7cXfBc5Pa2A5Q7j9-nNMynV3ULZE4QN0VomoWX6CWqqz9S0v80cfEF5VTYGjOigtYRhhO-vKv7Nh_7q/s640/02b+2017-042.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23RbEIrW2jkPDSxI-Odlk2YNDG3sw9XozTCkgaC-fOHkIq5H88MwkLRTkaybFZJ0awqD7S2k0HOS6_JdoTPBCSX94bLRugcd2LAB3EOvhXc4ImUFmJjIg7QNjf-jkOjMBcGGEFRYkqRGI/s1600/02c+2017-041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23RbEIrW2jkPDSxI-Odlk2YNDG3sw9XozTCkgaC-fOHkIq5H88MwkLRTkaybFZJ0awqD7S2k0HOS6_JdoTPBCSX94bLRugcd2LAB3EOvhXc4ImUFmJjIg7QNjf-jkOjMBcGGEFRYkqRGI/s640/02c+2017-041.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">During the </span><b style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">angiogram</b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, considered an invasive procedure, a catheter was inserted near my groin and snaked all the way up to my carotid artery. Dye was injected, then x-rays taken to get a good look at the blood vessels. I was conscious throughout, but didn’t feel a thing. They needed me to be able to hold my breath a few times, I assume while they took some of the x-rays. This is when the doctors were able to determine that my internal carotid artery on the right side was fully occluded. When talking with the vascular surgeon after the procedure, we were all pretty shocked by that news. However, they were also able to see that I was getting enough blood flow through other vessels that had developed in order to keep all the necessary pathways connected. Apparently a more conservative approach – just taking blood thinners – was recommended as my best option for now, and is much less risky than any further procedures like angioplasty or placing a stent in the artery. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqciGp1gUm43pVI4wEnzSKTyIbwN8DWSjiixOAkJc9K0CRdH3_xTpf2d8NqpVxGF_AEXbBvdGGYoCN2hgiv4WLlizxYKRVq5k8VQghos-W1zTXrN5dgyzDX1Nhn0aALfEmduGp7gFDSG5/s1600/03+-+IMG_0589+best+pudding+ever.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqciGp1gUm43pVI4wEnzSKTyIbwN8DWSjiixOAkJc9K0CRdH3_xTpf2d8NqpVxGF_AEXbBvdGGYoCN2hgiv4WLlizxYKRVq5k8VQghos-W1zTXrN5dgyzDX1Nhn0aALfEmduGp7gFDSG5/s320/03+-+IMG_0589+best+pudding+ever.JPG" width="240"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BEST PUDDING EVER<br>
after 17 hours of no food</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> After
the procedure, I had to lay flat for 6 hours and not bend my right leg at
all. But – I could finally eat!! Seth fed me applesauce and chocolate pudding,
and it was glorious. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I even got a couple
visitors that evening! My best friend
Rebecca stopped by after work, and Seth’s cousin Elly came by a couple
hours later. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was counting down the minutes
til 9:40pm, written in large black marker on the board in my room to note the
time I could finally get up and move around again. I was determined to avoid using a bed pan if
at all possible, and happy to say that I made it – but I did buzz the nurse in
at 9:39pm to start disconnecting me from everything! What can I say – it was nice to have a goal to
work toward. Being in a hospital, the
focus of daily life tends to narrow to a few key areas: pain, sleep, food, and
bathroom breaks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></o:p></div>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: 4pt; text-align: left;">
<u><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Friday 4/14</span></u></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> When
the nurse came in sometime around 3-5am to take my vitals and some bloodwork, I
got nauseous as soon as he lifted my bed into an upright position, and I was
sick for a little while. We guessed it
must have been due to the anesthesia from the procedure. Luckily he put some anti-nausea med into my
IV and I was okay after that. The doctor
came by early Friday morning to review some of the angiogram images with us,
and pointed out a couple spots of possible irregularities that might be FMD,
but it was not conclusive. The vascular
surgeon stopped by, too. We were informed
that the next step from here, in the short term, was just pain management. Since I had been at highest risk for having a
stroke when I first experienced the dissection, they felt I had been under
observation long enough that my risk had decreased enough to move out of ICU
into a regular hospital room. When I
heard mention of the possibility of being discharged, I perked up at that and
knew I would be more comfortable resting and managing my pain at home. The option to be discharged came as a
surprise to me, as I didn’t think I’d be able to bust outta there just yet. But by 1:30pm, we were in the car heading
home! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxOQnifSqboodT9CnLYMHTXBzIS3Bbpe5FqiA1VtJofo7k_9s7xDnNbVElTeOVSTyDZRfLVTGcQPN5OUZD_lqg7x40tSYDI5NZ9gPbY8QECFTWTkpSStdyn7fPh2oFckkoaNFqICgWpwY/s1600/01+-+20170414_102546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxOQnifSqboodT9CnLYMHTXBzIS3Bbpe5FqiA1VtJofo7k_9s7xDnNbVElTeOVSTyDZRfLVTGcQPN5OUZD_lqg7x40tSYDI5NZ9gPbY8QECFTWTkpSStdyn7fPh2oFckkoaNFqICgWpwY/s320/01+-+20170414_102546.jpg" width="180"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you Nancy, John, Phil & Amanda<br>
It worked!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A couple last notes, before
signing off. In trying to determine if
my dissection might have arisen in response to some type of trauma, I was asked many times if I had recently been to a chiropractor, gotten a massage, done
yoga or anything else that could have manipulated my neck in some way to cause
strain or injury. I was pretty surprised
that things like this could possibly lead to a tear in one’s artery. Although my dissection seems to have been spontaneous (rather than attributed to trauma), this is just a reminder to be aware of
what you’re doing to your body, and be gentle with yourself! And perhaps, think twice before getting your
neck “adjusted” at the chiropractor… make sure it is a gentle method. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<br>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVAlNWiQLa_TVGIvDHHzvHikR8w7pT2JHT0ILQRKJQGjsDFvn-7BQo3oi5cThzYpuyElZ8lkAo8B1DRSS5TJSTmFj9SmGsQ4JpZQX0XLc7MhvTV_ntQdB-RQh7cOIw-sGP1WP1zUA3HdC/s1600/-+20170422_195903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVAlNWiQLa_TVGIvDHHzvHikR8w7pT2JHT0ILQRKJQGjsDFvn-7BQo3oi5cThzYpuyElZ8lkAo8B1DRSS5TJSTmFj9SmGsQ4JpZQX0XLc7MhvTV_ntQdB-RQh7cOIw-sGP1WP1zUA3HdC/s320/-+20170422_195903.jpg" width="247"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handmade gift from a hospital volunteer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Finally, I want to acknowledge
all of the caretakers in the world. I was
truly able to witness the village of humanity at work in my life. To know that similar networks are at work in
communities all throughout the globe brings me much joy and gratitude. From my wonderful friends and family, to the
gracious EMTs with the ambulance service from Patriot EMS, to all of the staff
from both hospitals – nurses, doctors, specialists, cleaning crews, kitchen
staff, administrative personnel, volunteers, medical students, residents, and
fellows – thank you! I enjoyed your
company, appreciate your kindness, and thank you for your efforts to keep the
world going ‘round. I didn’t need a
health scare to realize this, but it never hurts to be reminded – I know that I
am very lucky, and very loved. I will strive
to spend my time helping others feel the same, and I will continue to seek out
my own role in keeping this world of ours spinning. </span></div>
<br>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<br>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>More Information:
<b><o:p></o:p></b></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b>Carotid Artery Dissection</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->a.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]--><a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/757906-overview#showall" target="_blank">http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/757906-overview#showall</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->b.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]--><a href="http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2606444" target="_blank">Association Between Migraine and Cervical Artery Dissection: The Italian Project on Stroke in Young Adults</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->c.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]--><a href="http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2606442" target="_blank">Migraine and the Risk of Carotid Artery Dissection in the IPSYS Registry: Are They Related?</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b>Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD)</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->a.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->short
video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyQSjG61amU" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyQSjG61amU</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->b.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/heart/depts/fibromuscular-dysplasia-clinic" target="_blank">Cleveland Clinic</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->c.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]--><a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/417771-overview#showall" target="_blank">Imaging in Fibromuscular Dysplasia of the Carotid Artery</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->d.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->From
the journal Circulation: <a href="http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/129/9/1048" target="_blank">Fibromuscular Dysplasia: State of the Science and Critical Unanswered Questions</a> -- A Scientific
Statement From the American Heart Association<o:p></o:p></div>
<br>
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</div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span><br>
<div style="text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-13074043277999211292015-03-17T22:39:00.001-05:002015-03-17T22:39:19.168-05:00blue green<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Was going to make a big salad for dinner tonight to "eat my greens" on St Patty's day. <br />
<br />
Ended up with tortilla chips & green salsa instead. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Better than green eggs & ham? </div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-23797252807570951652015-03-08T21:41:00.002-05:002015-03-08T21:41:28.089-05:00Lucero<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<br />
She wakes when she dreams<br />
sleeps when she wakes<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
. </div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-39411875651904928362014-10-05T02:43:00.002-05:002014-10-05T02:43:48.281-05:00New favorite Malbec & kitties with mustaches <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
What am I doing up so late, past 2 and a half a.m.?!? <br />
<br />
<br />
Reconnecting -- pink glitter in my hair, glitter glitter everywhere... a room full of beautiful people, of children who grow, with beautiful eyes last seen three years ago.<br />
<br />
Goodbye-ing -- a send-off for another child grown, now a new bride, soon to arrive in Italy to lead an Army-wife life.<br />
<br />
Homecoming -- welcome hugs, meaningful exchanges, fills my spirit, feels like home <3<br />
<br />
<br />
The first crisp of Fall, bright moon on a clear night. <br />
The magical energy from today's gatherings is slow to fade. <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-19560831036517749012014-06-19T22:46:00.000-05:002014-06-19T22:46:19.940-05:00Joshua, Giselle & Tiara<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Today's goodness brought to you by a good night's sleep + bringing music back into my life. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Who knew that hanging out at the mall after an 11-hour work day could be so great? Met Joshua from Mississippi via Chicago, 1-month-new to Houston, glad to be in an open-minded, diverse community. Giselle had a story behind every chocolate treat. Tiara practically rapped all the pretzel options & prices, she knew her stuff so well and totally owned it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yay for interacting with the beautiful people of the world! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo </div>
</div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-29924660113010442672014-06-09T22:55:00.000-05:002014-06-09T22:56:14.101-05:00How lucky can she get<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
Just realized tonight. I am that helpless child again, crushed within an unpredictable environment with no control. Always on edge, anticipating the next upset. Doing my best to survive and assist and unite, but unable to stave off the slithering disapproval, unrelenting dissatisfaction. The similarities are clarifying. And this time.. what will I do this time. </div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-69522842188812982182014-02-25T19:10:00.000-06:002014-02-25T19:10:32.664-06:00no bean sprouts <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
Sometimes, life gives you spring rolls just when you need them, a coworker calls you a "young cat", and you remember to drive home with the wind in your hair. <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-55806440968215788722014-02-24T19:56:00.000-06:002014-02-24T19:56:11.995-06:00black orange<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
The brightness in an otherwise awful day:<br />
My newly pregnant coworker is naming her baby girl after me. <br />
<br />
<3 </div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-43017596580080301952014-02-21T21:48:00.000-06:002014-02-21T21:48:41.089-06:00magna carta<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
I love my aunt's voice. It's interesting how hearing a voice over the phone can be such a different experience than when engaging in person.. the feelings, memories and images such an experience can evoke. <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-66605053500313409472014-02-06T23:25:00.002-06:002014-02-21T21:50:01.620-06:00good eye bad eye<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today started off awesome with new contacts (<i>finally</i>) and then surprise SNOW blowing in at 6:30am, covering the deck, cars and rooftops.. a magical drive to work. <br />
<br />
Switch to a crazy morning at the office, awful headache by noon, then an unexpected call resulting in a trip to the Emergency Room and a temporarily blind boyfriend in much pain :( <br />
<br />
Ending this long day with gratitude and hopes for all afflicted to find healing... in some form or fashion.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-81756207939788815932014-01-11T10:12:00.000-06:002014-01-11T10:14:11.955-06:00intact<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: #fbf0f8; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #ed145a; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 21px;">Hi Mia!</span> Here is your <strong>Daily Horoscope</strong> for Thursday, January 9</td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-size: 0pt; line-height: 0pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></td></tr>
<tr><td style="color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 26px; margin: 0px;"><div style="color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
You need to stick it out today -- otherwise, there's just no telling what might pop up tomorrow or the next day. Things are only going to work out for you if you believe in yourself.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: #fbf0f8; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #ed145a; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 21px;">Hi Mia!</span> Here is your <strong>Daily Horoscope</strong> for Friday, January 10</td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-size: 0pt; line-height: 0pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></td></tr>
<tr><td style="color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 26px; margin: 0px;"><div style="color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
You can feel a bit better about your lack of progress when you realize that your values are still intact. It's a really good time for you to remind yourself of what is most important to you.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Feeling anxious about chaotic work environment possibly never improving. </div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Disappointed to hear about social dynamics at workplace. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Reality check. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Remain neutral.</span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I may be the bridge. Will have to find my voice! </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
.</div>
</div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-74698434254262378392014-01-07T22:09:00.002-06:002014-01-07T22:09:25.072-06:00winter song<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Wintertime<br />
and the hearts of fathers<br />
are carried in the snow, the flow, the pull...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-45265131516669512782013-12-27T20:59:00.002-06:002013-12-27T20:59:46.379-06:00struggling<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I just found out that a friend of mine has been dealing with cancer for the past 4.5 months and I didn't know about it because I've barely been on Facebook since August. I last saw her in late June for her 30th birthday. I'm really struggling to figure out my feelings right now. <br />
<br />
So many feels. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I still drive by her old house every time I go visit my parents. <br />
<br />
.<br />
.<br />
.</div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-12177587687859493492013-12-05T21:35:00.002-06:002013-12-05T21:35:35.427-06:00verge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Annnnnnnd today my boss was on the verge of tears. <br />
<br />
Sigh. <br />
<br />
It was actually a better day today, though. <br />
<br />
We are a team with a vision. <br />
<br />
.</div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-60593873796034177552013-12-04T20:16:00.000-06:002013-12-04T20:27:47.593-06:00ugh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
cried at work today. <br />
<br />
it figures that the earliest day I left work since starting this new job (an accomplishment I was very happy with yesterday) would be followed by the latest day I've stayed at work so far.<br />
<br />
I'm finally available to do something fun this Saturday but no one else is free. MusicMan was supposed to be off but now has to work. Everyone else I need a hug from is out of town or too far away. <br />
<br />
once again, we're not going to have any time to get a christmas tree or lights this year. i really thought this would be the year. <br />
<br />
at least I got paid today... <br />
<br />
ugh. </div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-10664273040402880822013-11-23T19:56:00.001-06:002013-11-23T20:01:18.907-06:0054 / 5.5 <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Number of hours worked during the first week at my new job. / Average amount of sleep per night.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-42567067539398351302013-11-21T22:29:00.003-06:002013-11-21T22:29:53.033-06:00quote of the day <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
"I want to get married, not buried.." <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-13643785970920789252013-11-12T17:44:00.003-06:002013-11-12T17:44:38.771-06:00turning point <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
"Relax, dress professionally, and be on time."<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
! </div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-70756928938864826322013-11-01T23:29:00.002-05:002013-11-01T23:29:48.789-05:00eight years - an excerpt <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Eight years of unpacking </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
both real and of the mind </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The things we brought with us</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and the new things we find</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.</div>
</div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-13566669786280577272013-09-29T01:29:00.003-05:002013-09-29T01:32:04.677-05:00send me all your vampires <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Children love to sing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but then their voices slowly fade away </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
People always take a step away from </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
what is true... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Broke out some old CDs today. Don't think I'll ever get tired of this album: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41okfKtjDfL._SL500_AA280_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41okfKtjDfL._SL500_AA280_.jpg" title="Third Eye Blind" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Third-Eye-Blind/dp/B0012QLX1Q" target="_blank">amazon</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, late 90s music, I have missed you..! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-25933899117508047732013-09-11T15:00:00.005-05:002013-11-01T22:56:04.662-05:00heal <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmZBh-lxu4Ug-mgbqCrKMvmri0QB_Xx617LPLdZth_v6pTGMhQuJRg5h4m4-ElP9wmIyheWwf0zGQ2P9wvGhgfETZa0iDVLkh2ncEL9JyfxZrCPPOBrZ8KScboU0XIcYhDfgKgYtPLwzV/s1600/hugs+keep+us+alive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmZBh-lxu4Ug-mgbqCrKMvmri0QB_Xx617LPLdZth_v6pTGMhQuJRg5h4m4-ElP9wmIyheWwf0zGQ2P9wvGhgfETZa0iDVLkh2ncEL9JyfxZrCPPOBrZ8KScboU0XIcYhDfgKgYtPLwzV/s640/hugs+keep+us+alive.jpg" title="Hugs Keep Us Alive" width="454" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-42239686601805156832013-09-10T14:48:00.000-05:002013-09-10T14:48:14.151-05:00pep <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
You can do it. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
You are competent. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
You are beautiful.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
You are not unlovable. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
You are worthy. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-40911382906642175862013-09-10T10:37:00.002-05:002013-09-10T10:37:20.265-05:00hurt<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Going to bed angry, and sad... then waking up the next morning to dreams in which I am upset and yelling at people... sucks. <br />
<br />
: (<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Miahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07262103669784086746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4346064696155743257.post-18722934895425619182013-07-23T23:10:00.001-05:002013-07-23T23:18:51.267-05:00dressed in raspberry lemon <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
Just made my first salad dressing inspired by 80/10/10! I've been meaning to explore this for the past <b>year</b>. Will have to come up with some other flavors, too.... probably one using oranges... and one with grape tomatoes & basil...<br />
<br />
<b><u>Raspberry-Lemon Dressing:</u></b><br />
~1 cup raspberries<br />
2 stalks celery<br />
1/2 lemon, freshly squeezed<br />
<br />
That's it! So simple. Blend together = about 10oz dressing. Fat-free & delicious, y'all!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beatles-1/dp/B00004ZAV3/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.amazon.com/Beatles-1/dp/B00004ZAV3/" border="0" height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41P0l+s2kjL._SY300_.jpg" title="http://www.amazon.com/Beatles-1/dp/B00004ZAV3/" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Singing along to this album made my salad-for-dinner prep extra-enjoyable tonight.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
Palette:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUl0GtEYIIGSHPmgjbdA65o7Ha_FOYMI91Rf5UTImoIVQYGDIAJnuhdIe4r_di76d1H0TxpahjV9AR0gRSLjhfNHbhCVcoq7pH5j60MqX6Y2078fGF1G6veVPD-o1_AJn4B3-FRZi89TxS/s400/selina+lake_yellow+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUl0GtEYIIGSHPmgjbdA65o7Ha_FOYMI91Rf5UTImoIVQYGDIAJnuhdIe4r_di76d1H0TxpahjV9AR0gRSLjhfNHbhCVcoq7pH5j60MqX6Y2078fGF1G6veVPD-o1_AJn4B3-FRZi89TxS/s400/selina+lake_yellow+dress.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">via <a href="http://www.bellemaison23.com/2012/05/quote-of-week.html" target="_blank">1</a> & <a href="http://tinatarnoff.typepad.com/thought_patterns/2009/07/frocks-and-accessories-as-home-decoration.html" target="_blank">2</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images3.chictopia.com/photos/ladidadi/5948771297/pink-dress-pink-shoes-yellow-accessories-green-accessories-blue-accessor_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images3.chictopia.com/photos/ladidadi/5948771297/pink-dress-pink-shoes-yellow-accessories-green-accessories-blue-accessor_400.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.chictopia.com/photo/show/264689-Miss+Dior+Cherie+Ad-pink-dress-pink-shoes-yellow-accessories-green-accessories-blue-accessor" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">via</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://us.123rf.com/400wm/400/400/mirabellart/mirabellart1103/mirabellart110300069/9102633-beauty-young-woman-in-white-dress-on-the-green-meadow-with-pink-roses-garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://us.123rf.com/400wm/400/400/mirabellart/mirabellart1103/mirabellart110300069/9102633-beauty-young-woman-in-white-dress-on-the-green-meadow-with-pink-roses-garden.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.123rf.com/photo_9102633_beauty-young-woman-in-white-dress-on-the-green-meadow-with-pink-roses-garden.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">via</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.megadresses.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Yellow-and-Pink-Mahndi-Dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.megadresses.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Yellow-and-Pink-Mahndi-Dress.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.megadresses.com/pakistani-dresses/yellow-pink-mahndi-dress/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">via</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thimblefarms.com/images/Hellebore/Helleborus%20x%20hybidus%20WD%20Pink%20Bicolour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.thimblefarms.com/images/Hellebore/Helleborus%20x%20hybidus%20WD%20Pink%20Bicolour.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thimblefarms.com/hellebore.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">via</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fashion-era.com/images/2011-2012-fall-trends/colours/184122-pin-empre-dress-yellow-angel-sleeves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://www.fashion-era.com/images/2011-2012-fall-trends/colours/184122-pin-empre-dress-yellow-angel-sleeves.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fashion-era.com/trends_2012/2011-fall-fashion-colours.htm" target="_blank">via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bestweddingbridalgown.com/promproducts/big/20110905064819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.bestweddingbridalgown.com/promproducts/big/20110905064819.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bestweddingbridalgown.com/shop/prom-dress-bridal-gown-2069.html" target="_blank">via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images0.chictopia.com/photos/duckalicious/8470943805/hot-pink-zara-dress-yellow-cos-skirt-camel-asos-heels_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images0.chictopia.com/photos/duckalicious/8470943805/hot-pink-zara-dress-yellow-cos-skirt-camel-asos-heels_400.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.chictopia.com/photo/show/673072-The+Shitlisted+Style+Challenge+Episode+1-yellow-cos-skirt-hot-pink-zara-dress-camel-asos-heels" target="_blank">via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images3.chictopia.com/photos/gvozd/7417969634/hot-pink-choies-dress-asos-bag-yellow-style-lately-necklace_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images3.chictopia.com/photos/gvozd/7417969634/hot-pink-choies-dress-asos-bag-yellow-style-lately-necklace_400.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.chictopia.com/photo/show/860270-pink+dreams-yellow-style-lately-necklace-hot-pink-choies-dress-asos-bag" target="_blank">via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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