Needle time

Well, tomorrow I head to the hospital again for some tests in the morning and then admission in the late afternoon in prep for another transfusion for the baby. It's been three weeks since the last one and she's due for some new blood.

This will be Beetle's third transfusion and my seventh overall. You would think these would get less intimidating each time but, with the stakes so high, they don't. Plus, the last time I had a transfusion, I had a few moments of humiliation I hope to never repeat.

First, my epidural wasn't taking effect fast enough so they raised the foot of the operating table toward the ceiling to move it faster. So there I was, naked as the day I was born, with my vagina pointing almost straight up in the air. I couldn't help but laugh and say, "Well, I can't say I've ever had this view of myself."

Second -- I'm just going to say it -- I pee'd all over myself. It was hours after the procedure and the nurses were urging me to try to get up and use the bathroom so they could discharge me. I kept saying I felt pretty numb down there still but they assured me it would be okay and they'd help me walk to the toilet. So, I stood up with their help, promptly felt a warm sensation, and looked down to see a puddle at my feet. The best part was that Ted was sitting right there. Nice.

So this time around -- in addition to avoiding anaphylatic shock -- I'd like to avoid obscene displays of my genitals and public urination. That's not too much for a girl to ask, is it?

The actual transfusion will take place Friday morning, so look for an update from me Friday evening.

Beetles are tough. Beetles are tough.