I went to see my urologist at Chong Hua Medical Arts last April 22, 2009 and he asked me to undergo a number of laboratory tests. So, I went to Hi-Precision (they have cheaper rates and very helpful staff!) the next day to submit my urine sample and have some blood extracted. In the afternoon of that day, I had a whole abdominal ultrasound. The results were released after an hour so I’ve decided to go back to my urologist. Whew! Good thing he was still in his clinic when I arrived. Munching a piece of bread while waiting for my turn to see the doctor, I prayed that everything will be alright.

His facial expression was blank while studying the results that I’ve given him. It made me grow uneasy and afraid. I was able to breathe when he said that there is no need for me to take medications for my kidney stones. My right kidney is clear and no more stones. Yippeeeehhh!

Hmmm… I realized that it’s too early to rejoice. Because he asked me to go to Nuclear Medicine Department to undergo a DTPA Renal Scan to check if my left kidney (that has a parenchymal scar) is still functioning. Whaaaaaaaaaatttttttt? Nuclear…what? The name itself makes me shiver in fear. He said I have to prepare 8-12 thousand for the said scan. Boy, I almost collapsed in fear- – -fear for my life and fear for my bank account! Ugh!

And not only that, he has to endorse me to a gallbladder specialist because I have stones and some masses in my gallbladder. Whaaaat….? So that was the reason why I have insomnia for the past two weeks, for being dizzy and for the recurring pain in the right portion below my breast.

I went home with a heavy heart and a heavy grocery bag. You see, after seeing my urologist, I had a shopping spree at Robinsons Department Store. Just to ease the tension (and to lighten my pocket). Hahaha…

Anyways, I ended my day that night with a prayer of thanks and a wish that I will still live the next day!
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Today, April 24, 2009, I called Chong Hua Hospital and asked the operator to transfer my call to the Nuclear Medicine Services.
A schedule was given to me this coming Monday, April 27, 2009 at 9:00am. I was asked to hydrate myself for three hours before the scan and no need to do some fasting. I just have to prepare 8,200pesos for the DTPA Renal Scan. Upon hearing the amount, I believe i really have to fast to save money for the scan…. te-hehehe!

Honestly, I am hesitant about this. I am afraid. I really am.

But I love my life. So, I have to.

So, what is a DTPA Renal Scan?
Basing from Athens Regional Medical Center’s website, a DTPA Renal scan is a procedure that assesses the function of the kidneys. Usually following therapy for kidney abnormalities. For the procedure, one will be given an injection of DTPA, which causes no reaction, and will be asked to lie down on a table with the scanner under one’s body to image one’s kidneys.

The only preparation for this scan is to be very well hydrated.

Whew! That simple? That easy? I hope so. We will see on Monday, then.

Please pray for me and for my health. Thank you.