My travel to MSK was uneventful. I was lucky to get a seat on our company shuttle from Corning, NY which made the travel much easier. MSK for stem cell transplants is located at 1275 York Ave in NYC, so it was about a 20 minute walk from the shuttle drop off to the hospital.
Upon arrival at MSK I checked into the day surgical department for a Hickman catheter procedure. The catheter will be used by the medical staff to administer chemotherapy, draw blood, and transfuse blood. It consists of three lumens surgically placed into the upper right side of my chest. The surgeon placed the catheter without any issues, and afterwards I checked into the room where I will be staying for a month or so. I was lucky to get a room on the recently renovated seventh floor, in room 718. The room is well-equipped with its own bathroom, cable television, Wi-Fi and a window view. No roommates for us immunity-compromised patients.
I packed the essentials for a lengthy stay based upon my previous hospital experiences. Living in a hospital room for an extended period of time is like living on a space ship since you are somewhat constrained to a single room. I am allowed to walk the hallway for exercise, but must wear mask and gloves. A proper mental outlook is critical, and it helps to have items that help you keep busy. I always pack my iPad Pro, iPhone, Kindle and journal as a minimum.
The staff here is knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. Even the food is pretty good. I think folks here try hard to ensure patients are comfortable and well cared for.
Chemotherapy starts tomorrow.