Today has been a long day at Montefiore. I must tell you I am a hot commodity in the ICU. This is because today I had a Swan-Ganz inserted, which is a rarity in the Pediatric ICU. A Swan-Ganz (or Swan for short) is a catheter that monitors the pressures in my heart and serves as an IV for my medications. The Swan is inserted through my neck and kind of just hangs there. The Swan is necessary that I have in order to be able to be listed at 1A.

I call it the “Black Swan” because it was a dark experience. Well, it wasn’t that bad as they gave me a local anesthetic. But in general, having needles shoved in your neck is unpleasant. Despite the needles, the doctor told me I was the best he had. Now, I’m sure I’m not the only one who has heard that line, but I tolerated it fairly well.

Immediately after my procedure, I was brought to my new room! I actually have my own toilet and more space. My nurse has been fantastic. She understood how overwhelming the day had been and as soon as I came to my new room, all the fellows and residents swooned in to see this magical Swan. I didn’t mind until they started touching it, without asking permission let alone how I was doing. As the fellows fervently scribbled notes on the backs of scrap paper, my nurse turned to me saying “I like a nice quiet room. This is too much.” She even personally bought me a ginger ale when the floor was all out! So sweet of her! Eventually, the doctor left my room and the the sheep for fellows followed their shepherd out. I understand they are just trying to learn, but it takes getting used to being the center of attention without actually being the center of attention. Sometimes it seems as though doctors care about my vitals and medications and procedures, but me and my quirks aren’t always relevant. Ultimately, I am receiving the best care and for that I am completely thankful. I also feel honored to be able to give these doctors a chance to learn!

The days at this stage are going by quickly. People are constantly in and out of my room introducing themselves. I am horrible with names and when people are all wearing the same scrubs and lab coats, it makes it difficult to differentiate who is who. Passing the time I anticipate to be the hardest part, especially since I am such a busy body. Montefiore has a program called Child Life where someone comes and does music and art therapy with you. While I know I’m “adult,” I definitely wouldn’t mind some coloring serving as art therapy.

While this is only day 2 of the wait I am optimistic about this whole process.

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