Monday is my day for the big MRI. I have overcome a lot of my fears over the past several years since being dx, but the MRI lockdown is still one that gets to me.

I dont mind the noise. I DO mind how cold it is in there.

It seems that everytime i get there, its something else. Once, I was mid MRI when the power went out! yep! my worst fear. I barely had time to say "did the lights go out?" when I felt at least 2 people at my feet, stroking my legs, telling me I was fine, and they were right there.

Once I showed up and they just couldnt get the machine situated. I got locked, and relocked into that stupid headgear thing. After about 4 tries, they took me down to the basement area, and I was bumped to the head of the line for the traveling MRI machine.

Once I got locked into position, and it took several tries for them to slide the table out again. She said she had never seen anything like it.

I could go on and on.

Another issue, i have really bad veins. They used to try to slide me out, and do the GAD stick, and it takes FOREVER! its so cold in there, they simply cannot find a workable vein. Now I have an IV line planted in advance, so I no longer have to worry about it. I used to welcome the chance to be slid out of the machine, even if long enough to poke me. now they just leave me in there.

I HATE HATE HATE being locked to the table, and knowing that silly thing is almost on top of my nose! its like being buried.

Can you please help calm me? Tell me some of your stories? tell me some of your tricks on how to cope? What do you do to prepare or get through your MRI? Im scared!