things learned... don't try to drive yourself to the ER

17 years ago

and did you know that 17 laps around my hospital floor equals a mile?

So, on a scale of 1 to 10.. with 10 being the most painful, my 18 hours of labor pains (that ended in surgery too, by the way! C-section) were a 1.5 and the twisted bowel was a 10. Not fun. Made it halfway to the hospital and had to pull over in a Church parking lot and call 911.

Nothing they gave me lessened the pain. nothing.. Had surgery a little after midnight.. They called my oncologist, and one of his partners was on call... and he did NOT want the surgeon on call to do the surgery, he told them to get a specific doctor... Glad they did.

So, I had the same thing that my neighbors dog did! LOL sheesh! Poor golden retriever, being in that kind of pain and not being able to understand why and not being able to whine about it! lol I've NEVER hurt that much.

Doc told DH if we had waited til 8am, I might not be here.

He said the bowel twisted the instant I felt the pain and dropped to my knees. He took out a little over a foot of intestine he said it was dead and already gangrenous! then he shaved off some of my scar tissue from the exploratory surgery 10 years ago, and fixed my mangled abdominal wall as best he could. There were a ton of openings in the muscle and little and big hernias had formed all over... he couldn't use the regular mesh because of my other issues, but he stitched it all up as best he could (also from the not so good surgeon 10 years ago). AND he took out my appendix, just cause it was there! lol The took several biopsies of the colon and it was negative for my lymphoma... which is good.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (35)

grinch_gut
17 years ago
Ackkk I can't imange....I am glad you pulled over and called 911!! Hope all is well now and you feel better soon....Stacy
Toni S
17 years ago
Wow Kat, I'm happy that you were able to stay conscious and get the help you needed. I've seen people who said the same as you, twisted or obstructed bowel is by far the worst pain they have known, next to passing crystal kidney stones and burst appendix. When I was working as a nurse many years ago, I had one lady begging me for pain meds because her doctor had not arrived yet to evaluate her. I wanted to break into the narc box and get her some soooo bad. Anyway, I'm sorry you had to go that. Sounds like it was meant to be,, having a good surgeon. My goodness,He did a thorough job. How satisfying to have the negative report too. Good thing Kats have nine lives, it wouldn't be the same without you here Kat.
Related Discussions
Things I don't understand- warming drawers and a huge fridge
Q
Comments (55)
So, Histokitch . . . what size fridge do you have that works for you? I could have written your post. I have the DH who commutes 1.5 hours each way, 4 kids to feed, top row all milk, tons and tons of fresh veggies and fruits that kill me on space and even meat for 3 days and I am out of room. I HATE my refridgerator. Nothing fits, I can't find anything, food rots because I can't see it pushed to the back (also hampered by the placement in the kitchen where neither door (sxs) can open fully so I can't see inside. I hate saying to DH -- this was really good when I first made it . . . of course now several hours later and microwaved it kind of s#$ks. So, I live for the day of a warmng drawer and the right size and format refrigerator . . . just need to figure out what size that might be.
...See More
Things we don't need to buy?
Q
Comments (67)
Bumblebeez, your first sentence is kind of an interesting comment to make in a Money Saving Tips Forum! LOL I'll address some of your questions. As far as the cleaning ability, of course it depends on the formula but people who have used it reports it works as well as name brands (with the possible exception of enzyme detergents), and why wouldn't it? It's made from the same types of ingredients. I'm not claiming it's identical but washing soda and soap are in virtually every detergent. Same goes for the smell unless you expect it to have a chemical smell and you can put additives in there for that if you like. Personally I wash clothes to remove stench rather than put stench into them. Oh and is it good for the washer, well, depends on how you define "good" for the washer, but it's laundry detergent so if you're suggesting that it would damage the washer, you can be assured it will not. I should add that there's a lot of chemistry involved in laundry and the combination of detergent formula, machine, cycle, type of soiling, amount of soiling and even water makes a big difference in laundry results. And btw, few have quit using the homemade once they started using it. There's been a couple who decided it was more convenient to buy but usually when they get it for the right price. Or they keep a special formula for certain things. As far as cost, some of the recipes I looked at before weren't cost-effective for me so I didn't make it. I do have a recipe now that is essentially washing soda, borax, soap and baking soda which would compare quite favorably. "But then how would I get those big boxes of detergent home from the store?" Not everyone in this country has a car but somehow they get the laundry detergent home. Possibly by walking, taking a bus, a cab, or have it delivered... or maybe make their own? ;) I will agree with you that I enjoy having a vehicle. I don't drive new vehicles often and it's not a status symbol for me. Often I've thought it would be nice to not have one and when you think about the costs it could be very cost-effective for many people to get rid of their cars. But it's a choice that people make. Some like to make their own detergent and they do it for a variety of reasons. Some do it because it does save them money. Some do it and don't save much but do it to have it without the additives they don't like. Some do it as a hobby or as a "self-sufficiency" type thing. Some people will butcher a whole animal themselves, freeze it, etc, and some would think that they should just buy it at the store prepackaged. That would not be cost-effective for me, but for some it is. "It's one thing to choose to save money by not having a car and air conditioning but seriously, what is more important?" There's no one answer to that question. That's the purpose of the thread I believe. There's a lot of people who simply cannot afford a/c and a car (or a car with a/c! LOL) To many of them, food, clothing and shelter are more important. I'm not going to challenge the "veracity" comment, since I think perhaps you just misused the word. I see no reason why people would lie about it. I don't think you were trying to say that though. Mind if I ask what types of things you try to save money on?
...See More
Letting things go -- nice things I just don't need anymore.
Q
Comments (54)
My husband gave me a beautiful string of pearls with a saphire clasp for christmas last year...guess I'm old lady :) But then my newest piece of jewelry is probably 1950 with most of it being 1880's...so perhaps I"m just an old lady at heart :) I love jewelry with history. Sell it and enjoy the vacation...and know that the person who buys it is probably someone like me who will cherish it as much as the original family member of yours did. As to purging...well frankly, I like stuff :oP I love all the stuff ya'll donate to charity because I haunt the goodwill and habitat store looking for it. I use it daily and it makes me feel good. But that said...I rather enjoy purging too, but perhaps that's linked to the fact that I bought a huge house full of someone elses "stuff". I happily donate items to habitat. I like the tax deduction, and I love the feeling of doing something positive for a charity I support. I also do put things outside with a "free" sign (because I think it's cute how people will take ANYTHING!...no one does that in Alaska) but most of those are children's things (which must be taken during school hours so DS does not see it LOL). That reminds me...I have a slide for free to put out tomorrow when he's napping LOL My one hoarded...hang on, I don't know, thing is my son's cloths and cloths I purchased for a set of twins we lost. I thought we were going to adopt or have another child and now that we've give up on that I have to open the boxes. I have literally dozens of large boxes full of lovely cloths, regular stuff, and brand new things for the babies we expected. I know I have to get to that stuff...it takes up a huge amount of space, both physically and emotionally, but I haven't quite gotten into the zone to be able to do that one. Maybe we should make a pledge...those of us who have some purging to do...I'm peronally going to get through those cloths and give them to someone who needs them within the first quarter of 2011. Jak...maybe you should empty the barn by then LOL Ok that's probably asking too much heh heh
...See More
Some things women face every day that men just don't
Q
Comments (56)
Faron - I start my Stihl on the floor by sliding my foot through the handle to help keep it steady. However I'm unable to start our generator - the pull cord is too high up and I can't get enough torque - I'd need a stepladder. My profession was dominated by women and I can readily say that I never faced discrimination at work. Of course like most women I've encountered my share of men making crude comments and insinuations and as a young woman was never taken seriously when I took my car in for repair. And there were a few alarming situations where I seriously worried about my safety. When DD was growing up I tried to set an example for her, I felt it was important for her to see me as a capable woman. I wanted her to be strong and independent . When she graduated from college we went to buy her first car. I had already locked in the price online and brought a copy of the sales agreement. However the salesman kept saying that certain items were omitted and he wanted to re-write the agreement and came back with a higher price. I walked out of the dealership. DD was crushed because she thought she wasn't going to get her car. The salesman came running after us and we did get the car - at the original price. It's a story she vividly remembers. However she is now working in a male dominated job and is facing discrimination, ridicule and even career sabotage. There is no HR department, she has to take these issues to her boss - who frequently says that she's whining and then later approaches her when she's alone and rubs her back and says he's sorry. The only other females at her work place are doing clerical or administrative work and are off premises. She's the only woman working on the job with 6 to 8 men. It has become a toxic work environment and she has consulted with an attorney as to how to proceed. I'm proud of her for taking the initiative to get legal advice but she's so disillusioned and stressed that she's also looking for another job.
...See More
lydia1959
17 years ago
I'm glad you managed to call 911 and got things taken care of. My 19 year old neice has intestines that get twisted occasionally (they are backwards - a birth defect of some sort), I think she's had surgery about 5 times. Hope yours is fixed for good.
ruthieg__tx
17 years ago
Hey Kat...glad it all ended well. Hope you are recovering quickly..Hang in there my friend.
hayjud_mn
17 years ago
Kat, I'm so sorry you had to go through all this. I'm in pain just thinking about it! How wonderful that your doctor was able to line up all the best doctors for you. It has to be comforting to know that they took care of so many things and checked out everything else.

Now be sure to give yourself plenty of time to recouperate completely, AND stay out of trouble.

It really is good to hear from you!
nodakgal
17 years ago
Oh gosh Kat!! Dang I feel for you!
I see you've not lost your wonderful sense of humor!
Glad your back at the table.
coconut_nj
17 years ago
Good grief Kat! Yeah, whoda thunk humans got bloat eh? Can only imagine how painful that was! Phew, good to remember that even when we think we can drive ourselves things can change fast. I shudder to think if you hadn't had a cell signal or something like that. So glad you're on the mend and really glad you had such a great surgeon. Sure was worth waiting for him it sounds like. Wishing you a complete and speedy recovery. All that is great and your colon biopsies being negative are the very best news. Be well good girl.
pattico_gw
17 years ago
Kat...I have a card here already to go in the mail...Just sat something over it and it didn't get mailed...is it too late...are ya already better and don't need it...LOL or can I still send it..?

Glad you got there on time....

patti
wanda_va
17 years ago
Kat, it's good to see you posting, and I hope you are feeling better. I had the same surgery years ago (mine was also gangrenous), so I know the level of pain. My surgeon told me it was one of the worst operations you can have--and I agree. Take care of yourself, and follow doctor's orders. It takes a long recuperative period to get over that surgery. Sending prayers and hugs your way.
LorifromUtah
17 years ago
Geez.
You drove yourself to the hospital?
Oh my.....

I hate the pain you were in!
Sounds like you have been completely overhauled and you ought to be good for another, what? 100,000 miles or so?

Glad you are feeling better!

Lori
Cherryfizz
17 years ago
Good grief Kat, I hope never to experience that kind of pain. You sure are a trooper and you always bring a smile to my face.

I am happy to hear the Doctors fixed you up and didn't find any signs of the Lymphoma.

Happy to see you posting.

Anne
donna37
17 years ago
(((Kat)))
alisande
17 years ago
Oh, Kat, that sounds dreadful! But I concur with Lori's "overhauled" concept, and I'm glad you're all recovered.
sheilajoyce_gw
17 years ago
Gads, I thought you had a baby and a twisted bowel all at the same time. I guess you were talking about two different runs to the hospital.
wildchild
17 years ago
I don't normally react to these things but your post sent shudders through me.

I'm so glad you got a good surgeon and are on the road to recovery.

Good to have you back with us.
trinitytx
17 years ago
I can't believe you went through all this! I can only imagine you are feeling on top of the world after that.
OMG., scary just reading your post.
Take it really easy for a while, you are very lucky Kat.
Let's keep it that way! Glad you are feeling much better.

Trin
sandy_in_ia
17 years ago
Wonder Women??? I am glad that is all behind you and on your way to mending! Just take it very easy!
linda_in_iowa
17 years ago
Good grief Kat! I hope you are on the mend now.
lindaohnowga
17 years ago
Sure glad you are going to be okay and wishing you a speedy recovery.
coral_ok
17 years ago
I'm upset to hear what you went through, but very glad it's over!
Granlan_TX
17 years ago
Holy cow, Kat! I know that kind of colon pain and it really is much worse than labor pains.

Can't believe you tried to drive...when I'm in that pain from my colon trying to shut down, it's all I can do to wait for my sis to get here and take me to the hospital.

I sure like to hear they couldn't find any cancer in the colon.

Now you just take extra good care and keep on mending.

(((((Kat)))))
grammahony
17 years ago
I'm glad your all taken care of. No wonder you were in such pain. I'm glad you got a clean bill of health too.
Leslie
jannie
17 years ago
Glad it turned out okay. Heal up fast!
barb_from_pa
17 years ago
Oh my gosh Kat! I am so glad that you are going to be okay. What an experience!
jennmonkey
17 years ago
Yikes Kat!!!! I'm so glad you are okay, but what a horrible ordeal to go through! I hope you get a break for awhile! Thank your son for giving us an update while you were in the hospital too. (((Kat)))
trishaw
17 years ago
Good grief Kat! You are planning on taking it easy for a bit yes? I am shocked you even attempted to drive yourself. You are one brave soul.

Trish
FlamingO in AR
17 years ago
9-1-1. That's what they're there for, Kat! Gosh, I can't imagine that kind of pain, I am so glad you're OK and that you got the good doctor this time!

Now. Don't DO that again, OK?
sjerin
17 years ago
Makes me think of my friend's grandma (not to compare your age to hers!!) who didn't use her "fell and can't get up" button when she did fall, 'cause she didn't want to bother anyone. Wow, what an experience you had and I can't even imagine how much pain you went through. I'm glad to know you had such a good surgeon and most especially, that there was no sign of the lymphoma. Kat, I don't know you as I've only been more of a lurker here for a year or little more, but you seem like quite a fun gal. I look forward to reading more of your posts, hearing that you are HEALTHY, and maybe one day even seeing your entire face.
patti43
17 years ago
Glad it's over with and you have no more pain. Heal fast. Good news about no lymphoma. Good to have you back.
jannie
17 years ago
I cut my hand on a knife while unloading the dishwasher. There was a lot of blood and I couldn't move my left thumb. I was home alone, so I wrapped a towel around my hand and drove to the nearest hospital, luckily only about five miles away. I managed to get there okay (It was a Sunday afternoon , perfect weather). Turned out I had severed a tendon. All the staff told me I was foolish to drive myself, I could have fainted on the way. Next time I'll call a cab or an ambulance. Lesson learned.
hale_bopp
17 years ago
Holy cow!!!! Glad you're here with us Kat, good grief!

Blessings,
Haley :)
donna_oh
17 years ago
Well, thank God for the negative results!!

So sorry you had to go thru all this pain--Praying that you heal quickly!

Now BRAT KAT, You scared the living daylights out of me as I've been wondering where you've been!! Glad to see ya back here!

Healing hugs & prayers, Donna (^_^)
gingertn
17 years ago
Glad to see you back at the table and feeling better!
gneegirl
17 years ago
Kat, glad to are OK now. That must have been an ordeal. Glad you posted because so many people think they can make it to the hospital, and cannot. I had that experience about 15 years ago and sure glad my family decided to call 911. The second time was last week - even after I was home recuperating from my thyroidectomy. I actually tried to drive myself to the hospital because I was having muscle spasms and shortness of breath. Turns out I was critically hypocalcemic. Luckily my neighbor saw me in the street and rushed me into his car to take me to the hospital, where I stayed for 3 days before being stabalized.

Please everyone don't do it - don't be afaid to call for help.

Glad you are OK Kat. Hang in there and take care of yourself.

gneegirl
helencolby
17 years ago
(((((Kat))))) I am happy to read that it all turned out well for you. All I can say is that I am in total awe of you. You have got to be one he!!uva woman!! wow

Helen

things learned... don't try to drive yourself to the ER

Comments (35)

Related Discussions

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US