48 – Fighting Back

16 October 2023

Well, as a period in my life – I have to say the past month has been the most stressful I’ve ever experienced.

I mean, not much really shocks me medically any more. Three and a half years of cancer – interspersed with periods of Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy – experimental trial drugs, all kinds of scans and three PICC lines and a PEG feeding tube, there isn’t much that I can’t (or haven't) taken in my stride!

But this Pneumonitis and its potential of facing down death, really had me and Samros on the ropes.

Anyway – one month later – and very close crucial medical care, along with a specific drugs plan have made me feel that things are generally going in the right direction. Not out of the woods completely and there’s still a lot of treatment to be administered.

 

Inogen One G3 Portable Oxygen Concentrator

To help me get out and about, I’ve been issued with a portable oxygen concentrator.

This natty little unit, runs on a rechargeable battery and works by filtering the atmosphere to create oxygen-rich air by pulling surrounding air into the oxygen machine, compressing it, purifying it and removing nitrogen and other impurities.

The purified, oxygen-rich air is then delivered to the patient, at variable pluses of air, depending on the patient’s prescription, or effort and levels of breathlessness.

 

I can get between around two and four hours battery life, depending on effort expanded. I don’t usually need it operating when I’m at rest – just when on the move. It has a mains charger and a car charger to keep everything topped up.

I have to say that this is really helping with my mobility now. I wear it using a small backpack, which is designed for carrying the unit, and has compartments for the mains charger and spare bits and pieces.

I call it my Buzz Lightyear Flying Pack

A few weeks ago, I was limited to just a few metres of walking – by that I mean literally 10 m could leave me gasping for breath.

I have to say that this is really helping with my mobility now. I wear it using a small backpack, which is designed for carrying the unit, and has compartments for the mains charger and spare bits and pieces.

I call it my Buzz Lightyear Flying Pack

A few weeks ago, I was limited to just a few metres of walking – by that I mean literally 10 m could leave me gasping for breath,

Talking of mobility, it did get me out to a restaurant here in Gloucester, with my girls- managed a lovely picture – if I say so myself.

L-R: Nisa, Woz, Verity and Rachel

 

I’ll keep on with the positive thoughts. It’s what is getting me through this.

In fairness I’ve had so much love and wishes from my darling wife, my family and many amazing friends from all around the world. I would be letting too many people down, if I was any different.

Stay well people x