Hi Judy
I can't help with your issues, sorry. But, I want to offer my support and wish you some relief, sooner rather then later.

Regarding your pup loss. Time really is the only comfort. I remember not being able to look and Brandi's ash box. Eventually I could put a hand on the top and felt a bit better. She had cancer and black leisons on her face, it really wasn't good for her in the end. The last night before she was to be put down, I had put a blanket around her and held her up so she could breathe better. She is definitely in a better place.

Hugs to you.

The nurses always have trouble getting the IV started on me too. I've had so much IV steroids over the past 5 years that my veins are shot. Usually they have to get a IV therapist to start the IV and they put in a heplock port for the 2 or 3 days. That might be what the nurse was talking about, that way they don't have to start a new line each day.

Last time I had an MRI, the tech had trouble starting the IV for the GAD! It took 3 sticks! So I know exactly how you feel! I am in a clinical trial so I have an MRI every month with GAD. Not fun...and then they have to draw tons of blood from me (Taffy don't look! )

One thing I might suggest is making sure you drink plenty of fluids the day before you have the IV done and warm up your arm. That seems to help. Warm veins pop out a little better and the vampires don't have to go deep sea (see) diving looking for them! LOL!

I think they have a 'mini pic' line. It's put in the arm by an RN and it can last for several weeks. It is accessed with a 'Hep lock' eachtime used and then flushed so it is open for the next time. It's been many years since my RN days so my knowledge may be a little rusty.

A "rusty" pic line? Ick....

Just kidding....but yeah, that's it!!!

Boy, Judy, I know what you mean about the bed thing. I am still able to use a bedstep that raises me up as I get in. By being just that little bit higher in landing, I'm able to raise my dead leg just in time to land.

The best solution I have come up with for myself will be a vertical pully-type system from above, where I'll be able to pull down on a cord to raise my legs up. I don't need it just yet, but the time is near and I'm getting my ducks in a row.

I have the leg-lifters too, but just getting my foot into the loop seems like an olympic event.

When I was travelling, I kind of dove into the hotel beds, but if I smash theirs, I don't care. Mine is a different story!

Thanks for all the replies and suggestions you guys! I finally remembered, it wasn't a "pic-line" but a "porta-cath" that's actually surgically implanted in the chest so it doesn't stick out, can shower, etc. Then whenever an IV is needed, it just goes in there. Sounds kind of creepy right now.....EEEEEEEEEEKKKKK!!!!! Thought about asking my neuro -- if I ever get a chance to actually talk to him -- if there is a pill version in a higher dose of the Decadron instead of the IV. Oh Yes -- now if I forget the name of the thingy, I think of porta-potty and go from there. Easy to remember that since I would like to have one with me all the time!!! lol

Cindy -- Your pulley system sounds like a good idea. It probably wouldn't go with my "decor" though! I know what you mean about trying to lasso the foot! Totally exhausted by the time everything is where it should be. Guess that's why I seem to be sleeping in my recliner lately. Wake up without the backache too.

Beth -- I'm so sorry you had to lose your best friend too. It just doesn't seem fair that they have to go so much sooner than we do. Today was a bad day with that for some reason, tears and more tears.

Cheryl -- Isn't it great having such "gentle" veins. NOT!! That's what they told me. What study are you in? I must have missed that post somewhere along the line.

All of your support is appreciated so much! I'm feeling totally alone these days, but it will get better.

Hugs all around.........

Judy
So very sorry you had another day of tears. Just cry when you feel like it. It will slow down, and then out of the blue they are back. Your special companion was well loved and as such should be mourned well.

Many hugs and a calmer day tomorrow.