Consultation
The lump on my finger appeared last Sunday. I placed a warm compress first. Cold compress at night. On Tuesday, I feel my finger throb. Supposedly, will go to a doctor on Wednesday to consult about this; but, because of the "emergency" with Theo, the dog, he is prioritized and brought to the vet. He underwent blood tests and x-rays. So today, it is my turn.
Left the condo around 11 AM with my Swatch Greenshift Glow on my left wrist and my Apple watch on my right. I also wore my newly (online) purchased Tabi shoes. Proceeded to Patient First.
As soon as the doctor sees it, she says it is tendonitis. According to her, she, too, has it and it is very painful. Good thing mine is not inflamed. She requested for several tests.
After, I proceeded to Glorietta to buy items on my list. But first, had a late lunch at Yakiniku Like. Ordered my usual.
To buy the uni-ball Signo 207 0.7, went to SM Makati. It is no longer available. They only have the 0.5. I was able to buy at National Bookstore but a different model.
Checked the stall near Rustan's for a hair clip I can use for the wedding. Did not buy one. Then, I went to Rustan's to buy an RFID passport holder--Alpaka Ark Bifold Passport Wallet.
Proceeded to Muji Flagship Store to buy a notebook. Will give it to my nephew as one of his gifts and suggest that he uses it for his journal.
Visited the Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel at The Landmark and went to Anson's of said department store which happens to be on sale. Bought a mini food processor for Theo's food. With his age, it is hard for him to digest.
Home.
Labels: Chromebook, doctor, food, gift, mall, shopping
Radiation
Today's is Lyn's scheduled RAI Therapy. Left the condominium around 9:30 AM with my Rado Centrix Automatic Diamonds on my left wrist and my Apple watch on my right.
Was at ManilaMed around 10:30 AM. Lyn and I went first to her doctor's clinic to get instructions as Lyn will be admitted to the hospital. Her doctor explained everything like what to expect, what Lyn should be doing (including taking a picture of the medicine before taking it), the medicines she would be taking after the iodine radiation, laboratory test needed before consulting with her oncologist. Per her doctor, there are three stages related to cancer. The first phase is the removal of the tissue. The second phase is radiation. The third phase is chemotherapy, which in this case, are the medicines Lyn would be taking on empty stomach before breakfast. We were also advised to be admitted around 1 PM.
So, I went to the Admitting office waiting for 1 PM. Lyn was admitted around 12:45 PM. Edgar and I were also able to accompany Lyn in her room, with Edgar and a male nurse assisting in carrying Lyn's things.
Leaving Lyn, we went to The Aristocrat for our very late lunch. Ordered Pork Spareribs Barbecue, Daing na Bangus, Hototai Soup, and Banana Split.
Then, home.
Labels: Chromebook, doctor, food, hospital, medical procedure
RAI Therapy Date Confirmed
The TSH result was obtained last Friday. It is below the 28 (minimum) or 30 (recommended) value. When Lyn called the doctor's clinic, she was advised to visit the clinic at ManilaMed.
So around 8:30 AM, left with my (black) Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical watch on my left wrist and my Apple watch on my right.
The doctor noticed that Lyn's TSH is slow in increasing but she said we can already do the procedure. The available date (for the room and the medicine) is on December 15, Monday. This means, she will be discharged from the hospital by December 19. Will have to book her to a budget hotel starting on said date up to December 26 (it was supposed to be December 25, just wanted to be sure her radiation is minimal if not non-existent).
Since we finished around lunch time, decided to have our lunch at El Pollo Loco in Glorietta.
Bought a wedding card (where I will put my gift for the couple and have a friend give it to them as I would not be able to attend their wedding) and DQ's Blizzrd to-go.
At home, I updated my nieces about Lyn's status. Set a date with one of my nieces to help me arrange for the budget hotel. It would be on December 1, Monday.
Labels: Chromebook, doctor, food, hospital
Chicken Bacolod
Today, we are scheduled to go to the doctor referred by the doctor of the Adventist Medical Center which was referred to by the general doctor of Lyn. Left around 9 AM with my Rado Centrix Automatic Diamonds on my left wrist and my Apple watch on my right.
We were supposed to leave by 8:30 AM considering the traffic to ManilaMed. I was late. Yet still, we were fourth in the queue.
The doctor explained what will happen:
- Lyn should first take a TSH blood test. If result is 30 or more, Lyn is ready to perform the procedure. The doctor said she had a patient who cannot reach the 30 TSH result that she has to give a medicine to do so. This medicine costs more than the RAI itself. But, this is rare.
- Doing the procedure in ManilaMed, instead of Manila Doctors, where she also has a clinic allows her to offer us a package (which I prefer).
- Last meal should be four (4) hours before the procedure. She can only eat four (4) hours after the procedure. One week before the procedure, Lyn should not be taking food with iodine (seafood, seaweed, dairy products, eggs, bread, fortified foods, iodized salt.
- She will be staying in the hospital for four (4) days. The first eight (8) hours are the highest radiation. She shouldn't take a bath for the first 24 hours. After that, she will be taking a lot of baths. Everyday someone will come in to check her radiation level.
- When the radiation level is acceptable (often on the fourth day), a full body scan will be performed to check that only the thyroid has been affected and that the cancer has not spread. This usually ends at 8PM so that the patient can travel faster home or next accommodation with less traffic.
- Radiation is half-life, which means, every day, it decreases by 50%.
- The American Medical Society released that for Lyn's situation, RAI is not needed. But it was observed that for Americans, recurrence is very low, unlike Asians. Americans would also give a low radiation, but not for Asians.
- I asked where TSH blood test can be performed, the doctor suggested Hi-Precision which offer a low price. I asked where she can recommend to stay for the 5th to 14th day. She shared what she hears from her other patients.
After, we went to
Hi-Precision Diagnostics at
Ayala North Exchange which is near our place so it would be easier to get the results. After arranging for Lyn's test, left her to proceed to
Glorietta. Edgar will be back to her after dropping me off.
Decided to eat at Food Choices in Glorietta 4. Found a new restaurant beside Eataewon--Chicken Bacolod.
They have meals with unlimited rice (which I am not into). They also have ala-carte. The choice of rice is ordered separately. I ordered Paa (PhP205.00), Garlic Rice (PhP63.00), and Turon with Ice Cream (PhP115.00)
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| Paa with Garlic Rice |
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| Turon |
I think I prefer this over Bacolod Chicken.
Then, I went to BPI to withdraw via ATM I will do this several times to prepare the money needed for Lyn's RAI therapy.
Labels: Chromebook, clinic, doctor, food, hospital
Consultation
I would be taking a half-day leave for my doctor's appointment in the afternoon. Left for office with my Omega Speedmaster 38 mm on my left wrist and my Apple watch on my right.
I left the office around 1 PM to go to my doctor at Makati Medical Center. When I arrived there, the door to her clinic was closed as there is an ongoing briefing. Using my chronograph watch, timed how long before I finished my visit. 😆 Started the timer as soon as the door opened. It took an hour and fifteen minutes.
Instead of going straight home, decided to go first at Glorietta. I went to the Seiko Boutique to tell them to remove my name for the Seiko SPB513. Did the same at @Tokyo in SM Makati. Had a merienda at Auntie Anne's (looking for a snack with no meat in it). Dropped by Tudor to ask if the Black Bay 58 diver watch is already available. Not.
When I arrived at the parking lot, Edgar, the driver, is still not there. He must still be having his merienda. Thus, went to The Landmark Food Center. Found him in one of the food court's tables eating Jollibee. Walked slowly at the food court looking for food to eat. Bought chicharon to-go.
Then, home.
Labels: clinic, doctor, food, mall, shopping
Endo and OB Consultation
Took a half-day leave to have the result of my laboratory tests interpreted. Also, already made appointments--one for 6AM, the other for 9AM. Left the condo with my Rado Captain Cook Automatic on my left wrist and my Apple watch on my right.
When I arrived for my endocrinologist appointment at her clinic in Makati Medical Center, I was already fifth in the queue. I am worried about the result of my blood sugar. The medicines are still the same except for Metformin. My doctor says if I eat a lot for dinner, I will have to take two tablets, else just take one tablet. In any case, will have to watch my diet, do the one-minute tiptoed squat and walk (or indoor cycle) around 5 minutes after eating.
The secretary of my OB sent a message that the start of the clinic would have to be moved by 11AM because of an emergency procedure. Decided to still go to her clinic to leave my results and to be first in the queue before having my breakfast.
Left the hospital and crossed the street to have my breakfast at McDonald's.
After, just waited outside her clinic. She arrived around 10AM. I was her first patient.
I was worried about the result of laboratory result most specially the uterus. Good thing she is more into natural healing and does not want to prescribe medicines. Again, a healthy diet I must follow. Lifestyle change?
Then, I was dropped off at my office. Back to reality. LOL
Labels: clinic, doctor, hospital
Rado then Tissot
Was scheduled to work from home. Still, filed for a half-day leave to go to my appointment with my doctor. I know I would not be comfortable waiting at the doctor's clinic without filing that leave.
The start of my doctor's clinic is at 9 AM. Was there before then. I would be taking (injection) the prolia as well as show him the result of my bone mineral densitometry. There is improvement. 🙏
Edgar, the driver, and Theo, the dog, is about to leave for the latter's grooming. Since I was done before 9:30 AM, asked them to pick me up and I will be going with them to Glorietta. Theo would be going to Pet Express.
I was actually toying with the idea of buying a Tissot automatic watch as my daily watch. The Rado automatic watch I bought last Saturday would be for special occasions.
I was the first customer of
Tissot at Glorietta. Just like Rado, they have a 10% discount. I got their 20th Anniversary Collection ladies watch, with diamonds. It comes with an extra strap.
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| Tissot Le Locle Automatic 20th Anniversary Collection |
After, went to The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf to drink their signature drink and have my stamp card stamped. I only need one more stamp for their free tote bag.
Since it would take some time for Theo to finish, Edgar and I had an early lunch at The Landmark Food Center before going home. Edgar would pick Theo later when he finishes his grooming.
Labels: coffee, doctor, mall, shopping
Ya Kun Kaya Toast
Grocery day. But unlike my usual grocery day, I have to go to my dentist at 10 AM for my regular check-up. So, after buying groceries, I will go to my dentist, then back to the mall. .
Supposed to leave the condo at 8 AM so that we will be already at the mall by 8:30 AM, the time The Landmark supermarket opens. Guess? Late by 30 minutes again.
But, we were blessed to get a parking slot as soon as we arrived (it seems there would be a few people at the mall), we finished our groceries by 9:30 AM and was able to reach my dentist's clinic around 9:50 AM. Not bad. Edgar, the driver, will bring home our purchases and return to me. He'll walk Theo, the dog, later.
Whenever I visit my dentist (they are actually a husband and wife team) at Catipon Dental Center, I always learn something. My dentist is the wife. 😊
She shares what she learns from others' research. After waking up, brush your teeth (before eating breakfast). This is because at night, our body secretes fewer saliva that if you are a mouth breather, the mouth dries up, bacteria builds up, and we have the "morning breath". If you still want to brush your teeth after breakfast, do it after 30 minutes from eating.
Flouride is activated by our saliva. Normally, when we brush our teeth, we spit (others gargle, don't). She suggested to wipe a pea-sized toothpaste on my teeth to strengthen my teeth's enamel. Hopefully on my next visit, she doesn't need to drill my cavity.
After, I was dropped off at Glorietta where I would buy cheddar sausage from Big City. Brought the sausage to Edgar so he can bring it home.
I walked my way to Sto. Niño de Paz Greenbelt Chapel to attend the Saturday Mass.
The Mass presider is Fr. Boogie.
The goal of our Lenten journey is holiness of life.
According to St. Augustine, there three secrets to happiness (and holy life): humility, humility, humility.
Strive to be humble by not comparing yourself to others. Appreciate what others have. In the Gospel, what the Pharisee did is false humility.
Be humble in prayer. God already knows what we did, what we need. Pray in the structure of the "Our Father".
Humility has to be spread in acts of charity.
Whenever we see the crucifix, let us remember Jesus who humbled Himself to save us.
After the Mass, passed by Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel at The Landmark. It is one of the Jubilee churches. I am hoping to gain a plenary indulgence and I offer this to my Lola Tinay, my tatay's nanay.
And for my lunch, I already decided to try Ya Kun Kaya Toast at One Ayala. The waitress suggested their Value Set A: Kaya Toast with Butter Set (PhP188.00). When I asked her if it would fill me, she suggested their rice meal instead. LOL. Their best seller is the Hainanese chicken. Since I already had one last week, she suggested the Satay chicken cutlet with rice or the Chicken laksa. Opted for the Chicken Curry (PhP268.00). 😉 Since I wanted to taste their Kaya Toast with Butter (PhP95.00), she suggested I can order one on the side.
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| Ya Kun Kaya Toast |
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| Chicken Curry |
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| Kaya Toast with Butter |
It is good. Will try the other dishes the waitress recommended.
I walked my way to Greenbelt Chapel to attend the anticipated Mass. I was able to pray the Divine Mercy chaplet and the Rosary as a community.
The Mass presider is Fr. Benny.
It is Laetera Sunday--Rejoice Sunday. It is a time of repose to recharge. For the next two weeks, Satan will try to pull you from Lent.
Per Bishop Barron, this parable contains the whole Gospel.
The sins of the younger son: (a) The eldest son has the first right to the inheritance. (b) The younger son asked for his inheritance while the father is alive. This is tantamount to saying that he already thinks his father is dead.
The younger son is addressed to sinners.
Gifts given to us by God should be used as service to the community--not for selfish intentions.
The elder son is being addressed to the Pharisees and the Scribes. Because of envy, jealousy, we are not happy to celebrate. The elder son is only interested in the wealth, riches--not a relationship with the father.
Reflection: Are you seeking the grace of God or seeking the God of grace?
After the Mass, I passed by Mary Grace to buy a mini chocolate cake, browsed through the pop-up stores at Glorietta 2 Activity Center, before proceeding home.
Labels: Chromebook, doctor, food, frappuccino, grocery, Mass, rosary
Check-Up
Working from home, I filed for a half-day leave so I can go to my doctor at Makati Medical Center to interpret all my tests (blood tests, full abdomen ultrasound, etc.) in relation to my kidney.
I was supposed to be in the 4PM to 5PM slot. But since the doctor started late, I am now at the 5PM to 6PM slot. My next blood test will be in the next 6 months. Ultrasound is done every year.
Asked Edgar, the driver, to pick me up at the hospital and we would be going to Glorietta.
I went to Uniqlo at SM Makati to buy jogging pants. Also found linen pants which I think I can wear to the office. After, I went to the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Chapel. It is my first time there. Prayed for Donald Trump, his family and the people with him. Prayed for the Christians and the minorities being prosecuted in Syria.
Before going home, I had my Frappuccino fix at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.
Labels: Chromebook, doctor, food, frappuccino, mall, shopping
Doctors Consultation
Took a leave today. I hope the three doctors I intend to visit is available.
The first is the OB Gyne. She started her clinic at 9 AM. I was really early (before 8 AM as it is her normal clinic hours). It is really best to go once the clinic opens for there are only a few patients. Before, I went there around 10 AM or 11 AM, there were many patients and I waited long for my turn.
I prayed the St. Joseph rosary while waiting at her clinic.
The second is the cardiologist. He is supposed to have three operations but one cancelled. His secretary is not sure if he would hold a clinic. So while waiting, prayed my Precious Blood chaplet devotion.
Nearing 12 noon, the secretary informed us there is no chance my doctor will be holding a clinic. The first operation started at 7 AM and it is still ongoing. The operation must be complicated. Since my gastroenterologist already interpreted the results of my blood tests and adjusted some of my medications, I think I am OK. I’ll have my laboratory results interpreted by my cardiologist after the next set of laboratory tests requested by my endocrinologist. That will be on June 2025.
I had lunch at the
Floating Island Restaurant. There is an improvement with their service. It is faster compared to when I was there last time. I ordered
Paksiw Na Bangus Belly (PhP480.00), plain rice, and Ripe Mango Shake (PhP180.00).
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| Paksiw Na Bangus Belly with Ripe Mango Shake |
My third doctor is a nephrologist. In the
Makati Medical Center website, his clinic is supposedly every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM with Monday by appointment, and first come, first served on Wednesday and Friday. I just learned that his clinic is every Monday and Thursday, same hours, and both days are by appointment. I would be seeing him on March 3.
Instead of Edgar, the driver, picking me up at the hospital, I decided to walk to Ayala Center via the elevated walkway. My outdoor walk has been recorded by my Apple Watch. Prayed the rosary on the way.
I bought toothpaste at
The Landmark supermarket. And as a treat for walking for 30 minutes, had a
Frappuccino at the
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.
I was picked-up at Glorietta on my way home.
Labels: doctor, food, frappuccino, iPad, mall, rosary
Manduca Taberna
I took a leave from work today hoping I would be able to consult two (2) of my doctors. The cardiologist is not available; my gastroenterologist is. Her clinic supposedly starts at 2 PM; but she would be starting early, around 11 AM.
I was at her clinic at Makati Medical Center about 30 minutes earlier. She interpreted the results of my lab test, adjusted some medications, added fish oil as a supplement.
I am not sure I would be able to attend the Mass at Sto. Niño de Paz Greenbelt Chapel; but, I have rosaries I'll ask the priest to bless. So after my consultation, I went to the Greenbelt Chapel. Aside from being able to attend the Mass, I prayed the rosary as a part of the community.
The Mass presider is Fr. Benny.
The ministry of Jesus is preaching and healing. At Jesus' time, sicknesses then are considered manifestations of sins. Thus, curing sickness is curing the body and the soul.
Not everyone who approached or touched the Lord is healed. Touch is more than physical, it is about faith. Connecting with faith, we are rewarded by Jesus with grace.
After the Mass, went to Mary, Mother of Hope Mission Station--Landmark Chapel in hope to gain a plenary indulgence.
I then decided to buy all my medicines before taking my late lunch. Went to Mercury Drug at The Landmark. Then to Healthy Options at Glorietta.
Was thinking of trying the Paul Le Cafe at One Ayala. Learned that this branch does not offer meal, only pastries and coffee.
So, its Manduca Taberna instead.
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| Manduca Taberna |
The waitress suggested paella, steak or sandwiches. Opted for the paella (but this will take 35 minutes preparation). Their popular paella are Black Paella, Seafood Paella, and Pork and Chorizo Paella. Chose the Pork and Chorizo Paella.
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| Pork and Chorizo Paella |
Initially, there is nothing special about it. But the more you eat (slowly), it grows on you.
On my way back to the car, I decided to try the 10 Yen King. Every weekend, there is a queue in the stall. Today, I am second in line. 😅 Their popular item is the Trio.
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| 10 Yen King |
Labels: Chromebook, doctor, food, Mass, rosary
Endocrinologist Check-up
I made an appointment with my endocrinologist to interpret the result of the laboratory tests she requested. I was given the 7 AM to 8 AM slot (we are actually many on the slot--a first come first served--to manage the number of patients per hour). Good thing, too, that it is a holiday that I don't have to take a leave.
I was at her clinic at Makati Medical Center (MMC) around 6:40 AM. There are already people waiting for their turn. I think I am fifth in the queue.
My doctor is happy with the result that I'll be coming back in six (6) months instead of three (3) months. Except for my weight. Funny thing, she said that when she saw me enter her room, she thought "Naku, tumaba ang pasyente ko." (Translation: Uh-oh, my patient got fat.) LOL 😆 I know... what is funny is she is quite frank about it. Hahaha!
Since it is really early for the mall to be open, I decided to have breakfast at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Ayala North Exchange Tower. I was hoping they would have regular meals like their Eggs Benedict, I guess this branch does not have their Kitchen. So, ordered Tuna Pandesal and Cafe Latte (PhP145.00). After my breakfast, I walked back to MMC where Edgar, the driver, picked me up.
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| The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf |
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| Tuna Pandesal and Cafe Latte |
Waiting for The Landmark Food Center and The Landmark Supermarket to open at 8:30 AM, we stayed in the parked car with the air-conditioning on. As soon as it opened, I went to the restroom (bowel movement after eating breakfast). LOL Left Edgar there to have his breakfast and do whatever he likes until it is time to go home.
I found myself walking to Sto. Niño de Paz Greenbelt Chapel. Prayed my St. Joseph Rosary (my Wednesday devotion) and the Precious Blood Chaplet. I hope Jesus did not mind me making tambay there while waiting for the mall to open. 😇 A few minutes before 10 AM, I walked my way back to The Landmark and Glorietta. I will be back before 12:15 PM to attend the Wednesday Mass.
Simply strolling, went to the Glorietta 2 Activity Center where there are pop-up stores that sell Chinese or Feng Shui items. I guess it is their way to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
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| Pop-up Stores at Glorietta 2 Activity Center |
Went in to anko to check their items.
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| anko |
And Digital Walker.
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| Digital Walker |
And
Nitori. Found items I would be buying... later.
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| Nitori |
Time to go back to Greenbelt Chapel for the Mass. I think for a regular day Mass, there are a big number of attendees.
The Mass presider is Fr. Jo.
The Word read by the lector and by the priest is God directly talking to us. Thus, we make this moment to speak to God. The Word of God makes Himself tangible.
The parable of the sower may make us identify ourselves as the type of soil. The focus is (/should be) the sower and not the soil.
The key takeaways on the readings and Gospel are:
- God illustrates Himself the sower of seed in whatever context we are in. No one is deprived of the seed of the Word.
- He came out of the house and went to the seashore. Jesus who is the sower of the seed--in the land, in the sea, etc. The Word is suitable for every context in our life. When faith is shared, faith grows.
- Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear. The Word of God brings us closer to God.
Sharing the words of Saint Pope John Paul II: When minds are enlightened and hearts are enkindled, signs begin to "speak".
After the Mass, I went to
One Ayala to eat at
Panco Cafe. I found the restaurant I would be dining in when I am abstaining from meat! 😀 Ordered Fish Tartare (PhP380.00) and Hot Chocolate (PhP165.00).
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| Fish Tartare |
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| Hot Chocolate |
Earlier, I passed
The Manila Baker that one cake caught my eye. Thus, after lunch, I went back there to buy the cake. Bought the Chocolate Mascarpone Cloud Cake (PhP1,480.00). This is their popular cake. Their second popular cake is the Original Basque Burnt Cheesecake. Learned that their cakes are good for diabetics.
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| Chocolate Mascarpone Cloud Cake |
As soon as I arrived home, tried the cake. Luv it!
Labels: Chromebook, doctor, food, mall, Mass, rosary
Gastroenterologist
I am working from home. But took a half-day sick leave to go for a check-up with my gastroenterologist. I was assuming if my cardiologist (who is my gastroenterologist's husband) is on leave, she is also on leave. LOL. My cardiologist has a Viber group with his patients to announce his clinic schedule and other relevant health-related information. Thus, I took this time to show her the result of my endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).
My next laboratory test is for my fatty liver.
Labels: doctor
Bone Vaccine
I should have taken the vaccine last August. But because of the needed tests and doctors' clearances for my endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), I eventually forgot about it. Anyway, the test being asked by my doctor (rheumatologist) is included in the medical tests requested by my endocrinologist. Because of the result, my endocrinologist asked that I take the medicines prescribed by my rheumatologist once a day instead of twice.
Good thing that even I was late on my targeted time to leave the condo, I was the second patient.
Informed my doctor about the prescription of my endocrinologist. The vaccine was injected to me.
After, walked to Ayala North Exchange to buy food-to-go from Italliani's and from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.
Proceeded home where I did office work from home.
Labels: doctor, food
Rosary Procession
October 13 is the last apparition of the Our Lady at Fatima which started May 13, 1917. To celebrate this, one of the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) of the Our Lady of Sorrow Parish arranged for the rosary procession. Decided to join this. The meet-up is at 2:30AM. The procession will start at 3AM. Mass will follow at 4:30AM.
Woke up at 1AM so that we will be leaving the condo around 1:30AM. Theo, the dog, was supposed to be with us; but since his "nanay" (my niece) is here, she can accompany Theo.
We are very early. The church is still closed. Good thing, McDonald's is near that we can drink hot chocolate or coffee while we wait for the procession to start.
Usually, the people who follow a float with the image of the Our Lady of Fatima are families who own said images. We chose to follow a pedicab float with only three (3) people, and the image simply lit.. Me and Lyn made up for the fourth and the fifth person.
I was expecting that there will be a sound system that would be used by the one who will lead the rosary as the procession progresses. There is none. One float has a sound system that repeatedly plays the Our Lady of Fatima song. I guess, praying of the rosary depends on the people following each float. With this, I started to pray the rosary. The woman, who I assume is one of the companions of the owner of the float we are following, prayed with me. 😉
That was a long route for the procession. Supposedly, the procession would end in time for the 4:30AM Mass. Instead, the Mass was moved to 5AM.
When we are near the church, we left the float we are following and went to church to seat ourselves for the Holy Mass. The priest who led the rosary procession is the presider of the Mass.
After, we went again to McDonald's to buy food-to-go for our breakfast.
BTW while we were still in the procession, my niece sent a message that she will be bringing Theo to the veterinary as an emergency. When we left them, Theo continuously cried. She was able to book a Grab with Pet to bring her and Theo to (and fro) Vets in Practice. She is satisfied with their service and the way the veterinarian explained Theo's case. Moving forward, we would be bringing Theo here.
We arrived home before 7AM (as my niece will have to leave around that time) to eat our to-go breakfast and for Theo to have people around.
Around 10AM, I left again to do some grocery shopping. Normally, I do my groceries every other Saturday. But since my other niece has an event to attend, she used Edgar, the driver, this Saturday.
After, I went to buy a flashlight at The Landmark's hardware for emergency. Since been thinking of having wanton soup, went to Mamak Kopitiam for lunch. Went to True Value and bought another (hybrid solar) flashlight that is rechargeable by USB or solar, or use an ordinary battery.
Labels: doctor, food, grocery, hardware, Mass, procession, rosary
Theo's Back!
Truth be told, we have been missing Theo, my niece's Shih Tzu. When he feels like it, he goes to you either asking for food/ treat or for some petting. He has to be left at the clinic after bringing him last Saturday for a check-up.
We are just planning to bring a can of food for him; but, based on his status, he can already go home. The hematoma is almost gone and the wound of his operation has healed. His stitches has been removed.
Just in time for my birthday, too! 😀
Labels: doctor
First Saturday In The Month Of The Holy Rosary
I am observing the Saturday devotion. I would be going to the Sto. Niño de Paz Community Chapel (also known as Greenbelt Chapel) for the sacrament of reconciliation. This Chapel has a daily confession from 8AM to 6PM. I would also be attending the Saturday Mass to take the communion.
Here are guide questions (in Tagalog) as you examine your conscience in preparation for the confession.
After my confession and penance, I meditated on one of the mysteries of the rosary (for at least 15 minutes). Thank you to Regina Angelorum Press that helped me do my meditation. For today, it is the Crucifixion.
My takeaway for Saturday's homily by Fr. Paulo is when Job experienced the sufferings, he also asked God why. Job also came up with the answers to his questions. But we can learn from Job the following:
(W)ait -- patience
(H)ope -- Hold On, Problem Ends; Hold On, Pain Ends
(Y)ield
Also, pray the Act of Reparation for the first Saturdays of the month:
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your Immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of long you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone buy our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy towards us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy Him forever in heaven. Amen.
Whether a Marian hymn was sung or not at the end of the Mass, I sing the Hail Mary or the Salve Regina.
After, I went to Greenbelt 5 to have my lunch at Italliani's.
I walked my way to The Landmark Food Center to post this in my blog (using my new Chromebook LOL) so I would not forget the learning I got from the Saturday Mass' homily.
Proceeded to Glorietta to have an ice-blended drink at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Have to finish my drink at least one (1) hour before the anticipated Mass I will be attending
Done, went back to Greenbelt Chapel for the Anticipated Mass.
The presider for the Anticipated Mass is Fr. Ronald. The Gospel talks about divorce. Which is fitting to what is happening in the Philippines where the divorce bill is being deliberated on. I pray that these legislators are enlightened that divorce is not the solution but an escape. It does not resolve the problem. In fact, it would create more problems. We really are in a spiritual warfare. The devil is bent on destroying the family... the domestic church.
Before proceeding home, went to Bistro Ravioli to buy food-to-go. Again, updating this blog using my Chromebook while waiting for my order. Sorry, I just can't resist stating it.
Segue.
Supposedly, today would just be a check-up for Theo to see his improvement after the surgery. He has to stay with the vet again for three (3) days for observation and medicine because he got hematoma. 😔
Labels: Chromebook, doctor, food, mall, Mass
Endoscopic Ultrasound
🙏 Thank You, God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit! 🙏
Today is my schedule for the Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS). Have to fast for eight (8) hours before the procedure--no food, no fluids.
The receptionist of the Endoscopy Unit is very accommodating. She was surprised at the amount supposedly to be covered by my HMO, which is PhP20,000.00. According to her, the EUS costs about PhP80,000.00. Boy, was I surprised. She said, she will try to reach out to my HMO to have it increased. (Thank you.) I said I am willing to cover the deficit, just in case, as long as the procedure pushes through.
The staff at Makati Medical Center are all nice and efficient. The nurse who assisted me gave her lozenges because my throat is still aching after the procedure, in spite of drinking warm water. My bill has been finalized that she cannot include the lozenges added to my bill; thus, she kindly gave me one of her stock. Praying for her safety and success on her next endeavor (it is her last day today).
And my billing? My HMO covered the EUS. And my doctor who is not covered by my HMO split her professional fee in half. Thank You so much for these miracles. 🙏
After paying my bill, I asked my niece to buy food (Mary Grace baked goods) for my "angels" in the Endoscopy Unit.
Result: Everything is normal (on the detected lesions in the duodenum during the endoscopy procedure). The problem with searching through the internet about causes of symptoms or illness, the Big C is always in the list. Thank You, God, for answering my prayers. 🙏
Since my niece have to pick-up an item at Greenbelt, we decided to also have our early dinner there. It has to be soft food, I think. So, we had our dinner at Din Tai Fung at Greenbelt 3.
🙏 Thank you for praying for me, Mama Mary, Saint Joseph, my guardian angel, St. Michael the Archangel, St. Martin de Porres, San Roque, St. Vincent Ferrer, St. Jude, St. Padre Pio, Blessed Dina Belanger, Holy Souls in Purgatory and all saints!!! 🙏
Labels: doctor, food, medical procedure
Pre-Procedure Requirements
Scheduled for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) tomorrow afternoon. Unfortunately, the doctor who would be doing this specialized procedure is not covered by our company's HMO. I will have to pay the doctor's professional fee, the HMO will pay for the procedure and for the anesthesiologist.
Because of this, I will have to prepare the PhilHealth documents (which is usually being handled by the HMO). This has been ready a month ago.
I have to get the clearance from my cardiologist and my endocrinologist. Once I was able to obtain them, the doctor scheduled the procedure. I also have to consult with CAPE either face-to-face or via teleconsultation. If face-to-face, I can do it on the day itself; but, I have to be early at the hospital. Or do it days before via teleconsult. Did the latter. This way, I have to go directly to where the EUS procedure will be performed and will avoid worrying that I might be late.
Here's praying that my procedure is a success and a positive/ good result. 🙏
Labels: doctor
Consultation
Again, I will be visiting two (2) doctors: an endocrinologist (where I need to get a clearance for my Endoscopic Ultrasound, EUS) and a cardiologist. I took the medical laboratory tests last Friday, got the results online, and have them printed. There are some items in the test that my result is not in the normal range. I do hope I still do not have diabetes. And I pray that the lesion found in my duodenum would dissolve or can be remediated during the EUS or can be cured by medicine, not requiring an operation. 🙏
My endocrinologist's clinic starts at 7 AM and my appointment is 7 AM to 8 AM (before, her clinic starts at 6 AM). If I would have known, would have arrived much earlier as there are already many patients waiting--would have been the first patient as soon as she starts her clinic.
My cardiologist's clinic starts at 10 AM; but, his secretary advised me that his clinic would start late at around 11 AM. No problem. Allotted this day for my doctors' consultations.
I must admit having a Chromebook is much easier and more comfortable to use than typing with my mobile phone or my tablet. Maximizing the use of my Chromebook. 😄 The quilted bag also helps in carrying it around.
Was able to finish my appointment with my cardiologist around 12:30 PM. Good thing, they share to their patients the QR code for the Unilab and Mercury Drug promotion of 30% discount for Unilab products.
So, went to Glorietta to have our late lunch at El Pollo Loco. After, went to Mercury Drug at The Landmark to buy my medicines. Since it is the first time I will be using the QR code, the sales lady explained to me the mechanics. I would then be receiving an SMS that I will just show to Mercury Drug every time I buy my medicine/s to avail of the 30% discount.
Then, proceeded home.
At home, received a call from the secretary of the gastroenterologist who would be doing the EUS to send over the clearance and the lab results. Was scheduled this Thursday, October 3, for the procedure. Prayers, please.
Labels: Chromebook, computer, doctor
