I’d like to thank all the higher powers for the amazing Anesthesiologist I had today. I have highly collapsible veins. You put a needle anywhere near them and they crumple up quicker than dusted MCU heroes. There are very few areas on my body where the veins are sturdy enough to support an IV port. This man found a NEW ONE. I warned him about my veins and he replied, “Don’t worry, I’m VERY good at finding good veins”. He wasn’t lying.
He was very gentle and kind and considerate. He made me feel heard and reassured. And he didn’t leave me with an absolutely massive hematoma. Which is a goddamn miracle.
I am also afraid of needles. I’ve more control of it now with adult experience and body agency but I let him know this as well. I said, “I’m also afraid of needles so I’m not going to look at you, okay?” And he said, “You can look anywhere you like.” Then proceeded to talk to me while he prepped me. He sat directly next to me where I could see him after the port was secured and helped me get my arm comfortable. After all the “ready”s had been said, he asked me, “Ready?” and I said “Yes.” And then he said, “This may burn a little bit, okay?” Which…I dunno if it was supposed to and he was warning me or if he was distracting me with that. But, I never felt a burn. I took the deep breath to brace for burn and then I was waking up.
I must have told every nurse and doctor to thank him for me because he was so kind to me. As I was leaving recovery, he was going into another procedure but stopped by on his way there. He waved at me and was like, “You’re welcome!” And honestly, he deserves a raise. He’s top tier medical staff. I will fight anyone who says otherwise.
I hope he has an amazing year.
