Finger on the Shutter

By: Jill Finger

Apr 18 2015

Category: Uncategorized

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After spending most of Wednesday and all of Thursday in the hospital, I’m very glad to be home and enjoying my ordinary life.  I came in from my morning walk on Wednesday, pulled my sweatshirt off and immediately realized my vision was double.  It lasted about 20 minutes, during which time I showered and Wes googled double vision.  The doctor web-site said, “Call  your doctor,” which I did, and headed to Dr. Heslin’s office immediately. He checked my blood sugar, did an EKG and sent us to the emergency room, where we spent the rest of the day.  I had blood work done, a CT scan, an MRI and an MRA of my head and neck, looking for a reason.  The CT scan showed an old (about 2 weeks) spot on my brain, which they thought was a stroke and the MRI showed my right carotid was 50% blocked, which could have been the reason for the stroke. (Very scary)  I ended up staying overnight for observation. On Thursday, I had another CT scan of my carotids with dye, an echo cardiogram, more bloodwork and was examined by a neurologist and a vascular surgeon. The neurologist gave us the best news. He and Dr. Heslin felt the MRI tends to give a false positive ( the blockage) because the CT scan with dye showed the carotids were clear.  The neurologist also felt the spot on my brain was caused by my recurring (40 years worth) migraines.  All good news.  I came home with a prescription for a cholesterol drug (a statin) and was told to take a 325 mg of aspirin a day. 

I have nothing but good things to say about the staff of Kingston Hospital.  They were professional and friendly, a good combination.  

Dr. Heslin was wonderful.  He took his time, explained everything to us, gave his recommendations and was very supportive.

Wes was amazing; calm and loving.  I know he was very worried, but he didn’t show it at all.  He made silly jokes to distract me, asked great questions and was a rock for me to lean on.  I am thankful every day for being married to him, but for the past two months, he’s been an extraordinary husband.

Like I said, I’m very glad to be back to my ordinary life, keeping my finger on the shutter with a new, and hopefully long lasting,  appreciation for everything.