After dinner and while the adults were setting up for dessert, Samantha walked into the kitchen and announced "Ok, I am going to take my shot now." It was 7:30; the usual time she self-administers her growth hormone medication.
Samantha set up her "accessories" (alcohol wipes, biohazard waste disposal bin, sterile needle) in the same place she does every night; on our kitchen island. Instead of verbalizing that she should select an alternative location to take her medication, I realized that Samantha is doing everything she can to normalize this part her life instead of making it a frightening experience for her. This is one reason she blogs; to share her experience so that it is not as scary for her. Samantha shows anyone who is at our house at about 7:30pm how she takes her medication (yes, seriously...)
When Samantha self-administered her shot that evening with an audience of 4-5 adults and 2-3 children I did not think twice about it; frankly because in our household this process has become our routine - our new "'normal." Her brother usually accompanies Samantha and I as I supervise to ensure she is taking the proper dosage and it is administered correctly.
One of Samantha's brother's friend happened to be right beside her, just as her own brother is nightly, when she began preparing to administer her injection. Right before his eyes, Samantha
injected herself with her medication (in her stomach) and thereafter handed the boy her "pen" with a needle sticking up from the top. I immediately took the pen, capped the needle, and Samantha safely disposed of it in her biohazard disposal bin.
Samantha usually gives her injection pen to her brother after she takes her medication to give to me for safe disposal of the needle, which is why she turned to her brother's friend and handed him the pen. It made perfect sense to her at the time, as well as to me. Upon further reflection I realized that this little boy likely felt bewildered by the experience as it was occurring. Thankfully, he was an excellent "pinch-hitter" and did not miss a beat!
Samantha usually gives her injection pen to her brother after she takes her medication to give to me for safe disposal of the needle, which is why she turned to her brother's friend and handed him the pen. It made perfect sense to her at the time, as well as to me. Upon further reflection I realized that this little boy likely felt bewildered by the experience as it was occurring. Thankfully, he was an excellent "pinch-hitter" and did not miss a beat!
Although virtually all our friends and family are aware; it is rare when someone asks how Samantha is handling what is truly a monumental change in her life (both short and long term). Words cannot express our deep appreciation for those who genuinely care and ask how Samantha's growth hormone therapy is progressing. It is unlikely a routine experience for the average family; however it is certainly is an integral part of our daily life.
Just prior to Samantha showing our guests how she takes her shot, I was asked if Samantha self-administers her own medication. When I simply replied with "yes" he responded "that's awesome." I wholeheartedly agree.
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