The Trials of a Guinea Pig #2

Art
More art
Dr. M. And his socks
Dr. I. and assistant
Lumbar puncture
Spinal fluid
Blood and more blood
Abbey normal
The building that houses the Perelman Center is brimming with an extraordinary selection of art throughout; structures, drawings, sculptures, paintings, and more. The ceiling and walls in the main entrance are panels of glass, allowing light to pour in. It’s impressive and doesn’t say, “HOSPITAL” when you walk in.

Make sure to tap on pictures…

Meet Dr. M., or maybe just his colorful socks! I liked him, without hesitation. He confirmed my diagnosis without “sugar coating,” wearing a winning  smile. He didn’t shy away from any of our questions, and  graciously, allowed us to photograph his colorful socks. He told us he wears fun socks everyday. One more reason for liking him! He set me up for the trials and handed me off to my team.The CAPTAIN of my team is Dr. I. After explaining the details of the trials, he laid out his plan.

A LUMBAR PUNCTURE  is performed to test spinal fluid. Pain medication is administered about 3/4 down the spine. A needle is then, inserted at the site, drawing the fluid out. From start to finish, it takes about 45 minutes. I experienced some pain, but nothing I couldn’t handle.

A BLOOD DRAW  requires a lot of blood! Did I mention I hate Needles!  As a child I would pass out after given a shot; so embarrassing!  Anyway, some of the blood stays at the hospital, some goes to other research hospitals.

COGNITIVE TESTING  involves sitting across a desk, grinning at your Tester. I actually enjoy this; it’s like playing games! You’re given a small list of words to repeat back, how they relate to each other, then, after replying to other questions that don’t apply, you’re asked to repeat the list of words you were given at the first part of the test. You also answer questions about   pictures, numbers and more. This testing lasted about 2 hours, although I enjoyed it, I was exhausted in body and mind.

All your information is protected by a unique numerical code. I was told from the  beginning, these tests were for research only; I would not be benefiting in any way. I did however, get compensated for some of the test. So if you decide to go this way, don’t be afraid to ask about compensation. I bought winter boots with mine!

Should you determine it’s not for you, it’s your decision to stop at any time. That being said, I chose this path, hoping it will benefit future generations. I also made the decision to donate my brain for further studies; WHY NOT??? IT IS DISEASED AND I WILL WANT A NEW ONE!

Stay tuned for more trials. My next post will be more about our travels.

Sidenote:  this was my experience with research in my area, yours might be different.

One Reply to “The Trials of a Guinea Pig #2”

  1. My Precious, my selfless hero! You have gone through the beyond, you have figured out the answers to some of life’s most precious questions! I’m at ahhh just to be in your presence, to be part of making some of life’s most important questions and coming out of those questions knowing we have made the right decisions. In my opinion the best we can do, the most deliberate action we can make is give ourselves to mankind, you my Love have done that and continue to do that always! How are the rest of us supposed to carry on…….by your example that’s how! And that’s what makes a hero.
    Sweet dreams my love my precious, please reach out and hold my hand 😘😘😘😘

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