Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Inquiring Minds Want To Know...What Is That On Her Chest?!?

Earlier this week I went to see my Oncologist.  Nothing special, just my usual port flush and blood work.  After 5+ years of this routine, I've come to accept the fact that-my port isn't going anywhere anytime soon!
Since I have a tendency to bleed a bit after blood draws, the nurse uses a cotton ball and gauze with medical tape to stop any additional bleeding I may have.  Wearing a shirt that makes it easy for her to access, I put my light cardigan back on and go about my business which entails a trip to the office supply store.
Leaving the doctors office and walking outside, eyes are automatically drawn to my chest where a large white cotton ball and tape protrude.  To top things off, my lymphedema was being less than cooperative that day, which meant wearing my compression sleeve and glove.  Yeah, what a sight I was!  Passersby didn't know where to advert their eyes, to my chest or to my arm and hand! 
Onto the office supply store where yet, I was encountered with the same stares and looks.  The young sales associate that I approached to ask for some assistance had the "deer in headlights" look as he saw me walking towards him.
And last, but not least, the female associate that so graciously checked out my purchase had the same bewildered look on her face.  Not certain as to what the bandage like wrap that was on my arm and hand, and, why on earth was a cotton ball with tape on my chest?
Ahhhh....yes, I smiled, thanked them both for their assistance and went on my merry way. 
I had to chuckle to myself as I got into my car.  Yes, I really am quite the normal person with a few minor imperfections,  but really, just another cancer survivor trying to do the best she can with what she's got...even if it is with a white cotton ball stuck with tape on my chest.