Yesterday I had a MUGA scan (Multi Gated Acquisition Scan).
It was a fairly simple procedure. Like the bone scan, I received an injection
into the vein where they typically draw your blood. All I felt was a slight pinch. I had
to wait 20 minutes and then they gave me another injection in the same area.
That injection hurt a bit more because the technician couldn't get into the
vein so he ended up having to stick me twice - no big deal. I took a picture of
the machine for anyone who is interested. I had to lie on my back while they
positioned the machine over my chest. If you are claustrophobic this is an easy
test - there are no tunnels to go into. I was able to listen to my iPod during
the test. My playlist consisted of The Traveling Wilburys, Eric Clapton, Greg
Tannen and The Weepies. Good music makes all the difference when they are
sticking you with needles and taking pictures of your innards. I had to stay
still but I was able to breathe normally. The whole test took about twenty
minutes. The great news is my Ejection Fraction went from 51% to 63% which is
excellent news. My chemo is back on for next Monday, November 4th. Once I found
out my EF was low I decided to push myself to walk every day. I got so tired
from the chemo I stopped exercising and I think that was a big mistake. I'm not
sure if the walking contributed to the rise in number, but I would like to
think that it made a difference. So from now on, no matter how badly I'm
feeling, I will force myself to walk every day.
Today I'm scheduled for the ultrasound to see how my tumors
are shrinking. This is the test I'm nervous about. I sure hope it's good news.
I will keep you all posted.
Beppy
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