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IGIV: Finding Hope in The Infusion Center
IGIV is a plasma product used to treat various immune system disorders, and in my case, MS is the target. It is made from a pool of antibodies extracted from the plasma of thousands of healthy donors. Once a mouth, I go to the infusion center where I sit for 3-5 hours in a recliner with a good book while my infusion nurse makes sure he loads me up with healthy stuff such as plasma, vitamins, fluids, etc. My hope is the magic cocktail will help me to live somewhat of a normal life. The truth is, I have never been “normal,” but I am determined. I will never give up trying to make my plight more fortunate.
Mike, the infusion nurse, has become my friend. Often he schedules me on light days and we talk about politics, religion, and healthy living. Today was a little different. I suppose most people don’t want an infusion the first day after New Years. But Christmas 2025 did a number on me and I have been exhausted for days. I am severely anemic and I couldn’t wait for the jet fuel running from a bag on a pole into my veins. I am hopeful I will start feeling better now.
Mike tells me IGIV is becoming more advanced and will be more efficient in the future, helping my nutrient deficient body absorb vitamins I need to fight pernicious anemia. There is hope.
IGIV patients are the most kind, positive people I have ever met. Everyone is so friendly and happy to chat the time away. I prefer to meet new people than to read a novel in a day. Let’s face it, people like me don’t get out much and we welcome the opportunity to meet a new friend. Mike joins in as he rushes around making sure his patients are getting every thing they need. The room feels like a spa, with Mike bringing blankets, adjusting recliners and serving snacks. He is the best.
Why are people with immune deficiencies so sweet? I can’t remember a time when I have had to tolerate a rude infusee. It’s apparent most of my MS peers make the best of their situation and live their best life.
While I am not always Miss Sunshine, I look forward to hanging out with people who get what everyone is going through. It’s encouraging to be in an environment where the medical staff truly care and will do anything they can to make the patients smile. It’s great to talk to people who just want a fighting chance in life. We want the same thing and hanging out with people who know how difficult the fight can be gives me hope. Hope is contagious. Keep spreading hope and it will circle around and come back to you three times.
MS is not a death sentence. It’s an opportunity to help others be a positive force in the world and finding a way to touch another life is a lovely thing. Grace & Peace
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