Saturday, March 21, 2015

Bollywood and Dr. Painless

On Thursday of last week Robbie's lumbar puncture went off without a hitch.  The words "spinal tap" have likely earned their horrible reputation in our society, but we were blessed that for Robbie the procedure was planned and took place in a controlled environment, performed by a neuro-radiologist.  The doc who performed the procedure has been in practice for more than 40 years and when multiple staff people tell you "Oh, this is going to be easy - you've got Dr. Painless!" you figure that he must have well earned his reputation!

I was completely surprised that the brought me with them in to the procedure room.  Robbie just laid on his belly and the Technician took a few xray films of his back with a pair of surgical scissors laying across it.  When they found the lamina that they wanted to go between in relation to the scissors they marked it with a Sharpie marker and went ahead.  It was so much mind-over-matter; knowing where the needle was versus the fact that it sort of just looked like a blood draw externally.

Not only was Dr Painless very careful to keep Robbie physically comfortable, but once he learned about Robbie's profession and schooling he kept up a steady stream of conversation about all kinds of music -- but he was very open that his biggest musical interests lie in Bollywood, the Beatles and how a British band got their start in Hamburg.

Robbie's recovery has been so-so.  Lots of headaches, but nothing extreme and he has consistently had relief when he lays down.  We are monitoring it, but for now he is usually able to be up and about pain-free for several hours before the next headache comes on.

Obviously the most painful aspect of this is the waiting....  Now we wait for the results.  Robbie did call the doc's office on Friday and at that point they reported that nothing was in yet.  So hopefully early next week!  We continue to covet your prayers!

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