My journey through hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) has been one filled with several doctor appointments, searching for solutions to improve my health. When Ashley Black, PA-C in Urology, introduced me to HBO, it was a completely new concept to me. But I trusted her expertise, and if she believed this was something I needed to pursue, I wasn’t going to hesitate. That trust led me to 30 consecutive mornings in a high-pressure oxygen chamber, and I’m grateful for the experience, the incredible team at Altru, and the unexpected benefits along the way.
From Idea to Reality: Becoming Patient #1
This journey started with a suggestion from Ashley after I had been dealing with radiation cystitis, a frustrating and, at times, serious side effect from past prostate cancer treatments. Chronic hematuria (a fancy way of saying I had blood in my urine) had become an all-too-familiar issue, and after two emergency room visits and a hospital stay for blockages, I knew I needed a long-term solution.
I had done my research on HBO and was fully prepared to drive 165 miles round trip to Fargo to receive treatment—until I heard that Altru was building a new HBO center right here in town. It was exactly what I needed to hear.
That’s when Kristi entered the picture. She was my first contact at the Altru Wound Clinic, well before it was even completed. From the very beginning, she reassured me that things were on track and that I wouldn’t have to wait long. Even when construction delayed the start by one day, she kept me informed. That phone call from Kristi—telling me we could finally schedule my initial consultation—was a huge relief. After months of waiting, I was officially Patient #1 at the brand-new Altru HBO center.
First Impressions: A Little Anxiety, A Lot of Ear-Popping
Going into my first session, I was anxious. What if I had a coughing fit? What if I had to use the bathroom? What if I suddenly realized I was claustrophobic? Thankfully, all those fears disappeared once I saw how spacious the chambers were. No coffin-like spaces here—just a reclining on a bed, a TV, and 2.5 hours to settle in.
Each session, or “dive” as it’s called, was 90 minutes of treatment with two 10-minute air breaks (breathing outside air), plus time for compression and decompression. The ear-popping took some getting used to (kind of like being in an airplane), and there was a temperature shift—warming up as I descended and cooling off on the way back up.
Challenges & Unexpected Perks
Thirty days is a big commitment—especially when each morning felt like I was living my own version of Groundhog Day. I am lucky that my employer is accommodating, but adjusting my schedule and making sure I took medications at the right time was a bit of a juggling act. I even caught a cold during treatment, but strangely enough, HBO seemed to clear up my sinus headaches—a nice little side effect I wasn’t expecting. Then there was the biggest surprise: my vision improved. Suddenly, I didn’t need my glasses for anything except reading. (Apparently, this is temporary, but I’m enjoying my eagle-eyed vision while it lasts!)
The People Who Made It All Worthwhile
Beyond the medical benefits, what I'll miss most is the team at Altru Wound Clinic. Kristi, Seth, Jen, Nikki, Kim, Cindy, Lindsay, and the whole crew made every morning better with their cheerfulness and professionalism.
Nikki, my primary HBO tech, always ensured my comfort and kept the mood light, making the process feel more like a daily visit with friends. Kristi has been there from the beginning, ensuring I got in as soon as possible and checking on me along the way. Going to HBO every morning felt like starting a new job, and just like leaving a great workplace, I'll miss seeing these incredible people every day.
And through it all, my wife has been my coach—the one who kept me moving forward, and whether it was adjusting our daily routine, keeping me motivated, or just being there, her support made all the difference.
The Big Question: Did It Work?
It’s still early to say with certainty, but I’m feeling optimistic. My hematuria has significantly decreased, and I’ve only had one minor episode since starting treatment. One of the most life-changing improvements? My urinary leakage issues have improved, which is a huge quality-of-life boost. Oh, and my knees no longer ache—a completely unexpected but very welcome bonus.
If you’re considering HBO, do it. Talk to your doctor, visit the center, and do your research. The first week takes some adjustment, but by day 7, I started noticing small changes. By day 15, I knew something was working.
I leave feeling grateful—for the care I received, the improvements I’ve seen, and the amazing team who helped me along the way. And who knows? Maybe my knees and vision will stay this good, and I’ll have to start calling HBO my personal fountain of youth.
Learn more about Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO) Therapy at Altru »