Making Amends

Good news, (finally)... if you recall from my previous blog, Walgreens had really dropped the ball with their home visits scheduling. However, no sooner did I click "publish" for my entry, I received a phone call from the Walgreens respiratory therapist. Although she had experienced car trouble, a mechanic was able to fix the issue, so she would be able to see my son, that same day.

This was a huge relief for us. We really wanted to get this Vpap machine running comfortably, so Jay could have restful nights. We were both becoming more and more frustrated, trying to fit the mask so it wouldn't irritate Jay's nose.

Well, she arrived late that afternoon and was most helpful. First, she recorded the data from the memory card, inside the machine. It measures oxygen saturation and heart rate while Jay sleeps. Then she replaced the memory card with a new one. Apparently, they are only good for 30days of use.

We then asked her about alternatives for the mask. She did have a sample of a difference version. This new one has the apparatus strapped to the forehead vertically, instead of just a nasal device, that is horizontal. The new mask looks somewhat similar to a mask that you would use for snorkeling.... without the underwater experience!

The therapist showed us how to wear it. Jay tried it on, it was a little cumbersome, but he felt it was more comfortable. So, it looks like we finally have a winner! Not only that, but she told us it's only necessary for Jay to wear the oximeter around his finger, once a month. This is great news because it means fewer wires to be hooked up to, at night.

All in all, it was a very good day. What started out as a frustrating and aggravating experience, turned out to be quite constructive and helpful. Hopefully, this puts an end to Jay's nightmarish nighttime struggles. I' m very relieved that the therapist came after all, making our angst towards Walgreens subside... at least, for now.