Everyone has been great with the support and understanding I need to get through this. Thank you.
This round of chemo has been the same in some aspects and different in others. Like other treatments, I've been lucky to avoid the nausea and the need to take prescriptions to combat - if and when it rears its ugly head. Last time I didn't have the lingering headache immediately following chemo, but this time I did. Not debilitating, but nagging. Enough so that I really haven't been hungry. I have had cravings, but the 'normal things' like a salad, I've been steering clear of. I'm so glad that tomatoes freeze well (for later cooking). However, Romaine needs to be chucked. I'm glad there wasn't that much that needed to be thrown out. I'm now on a cooked vegetable kick, so those frozen tomatoes will make an appearance I'm certain.
I'm so sick of flavored water. I have at least a dozen cherry and limeade whose red color looks so much like the Adriamycin, that I'm tempted to chuck those so I won't be reminded of this terrible poison. I've been able to 'stomach' Fruit2O, but I'm down to just the lemon flavor only. I drank one the other day and it felt like I had hair in my mouth. [Gross alert] I soon found out that my mouth lining was sloughing as a result of the acid in the lemon drink. I did pick up some ginger ale today as well as Newman's pink lemonade.
As to be expected, I'm exhausted. I was disheartened this time because my sleep patterns were disrupted for a few days. I'd go to bed at 11 PM and then be wide awake at 2 AM for a number of days in succession. Not having lots of energy, I assumed the couch potato position and partook in an endless diet of Law and Order. Not a bad show, but the commercials - especially in those off hours, are really too much. Sue me, sue you, sue the hospital, sue the drug companies, sue Sue. Enough. It's no wonder there's a spike in post traumatic stress. Maddening. At least I can pause live TV and accumulate enough of a buffer to zip through the commercials until I space it and change the channel - effectively loosing my buffer and half the unwatched show. [Insert expletive here.] Around Sunday, I broke the sleepless pattern and started a new regimen of sleeping for almost 12 hours straight. At least the day goes by faster and quicker to my 'good days'.
The body is trying like hell to repair itself. There are some casualties. My poor right arm is bruised and painful in places as a result of the chemo being pushed through my veins. My 'oopsies' are quite visible [Thanks Roberta - hope you got your prescription updated.] My two finger neuropathy continues. The tingling in the feet also continues, but intermittent. My hair appears to be trying to grow back, albeit slowly. I haven't seen any different colors and my beard is still quite light - requiring a shave only once or twice a week. I'm maintaining my weight. I gain a pound - then lose a pound, but have maintained a fairly steady weight. I'm religious about taking my temperature and that seems to be fairly consistent too. I'm still regular (no doubt as a result of my cooked vegetables kick).
I'm hopeful that each day will be better going forward. Thursday marks one week. If this is like last time, I should be seeing noticeable changes by the weekend. We are scheduled for our first heat wave in two years and it's supposed to be extended. It would be nice to be able to take advantage of the weather to enjoy some time by the shore (lake, ocean or pools side).
Keep cool. More to come.
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Chemo # 3
Those good old days
I was happy to have enjoyed a string of 'good' days since July 13th. I was able to: attend an outdoor concert (4EverFab); head to a few beaches and lakes; enjoy some cook-outs; and even try a few of my favorite restaurants.
Last evening I trekked down to Quincy (nearly 3 hours due to it being during rush hour) and met former RMV/MassDOT colleagues/friends to celebrate the recent retirement of three women I have known and worked with for 25 years. It was a great time. The weather was perfect, the location was gorgeous, the food was fabulous and the company - like coming home to family. It was so good to reconnect and provided a fitting closure to the end of my 'good' days - for awhile, anyway.
Needing to get up earlier than I had been, I set the alarm and made sure I got to bed early. Of course, I didn't sleep well. I woke up an hour before the alarm and decided to start my day. I was dreading this round of chemo. Since round two was worse than round one, why would round three break the pattern. All one can do is expect the best and prepare for the worst.
Getting the approval to proceed
I arrived early for my appointment, however, I was taken right away for my vitals check. My weight was the same, but my pressure was a little high. [I attribute this to my being anxious and not having a good night's sleep. But I'm no doctor, I just play one on TV.] I was asked to return to waiting room until the doctor arrived. I had brought the morning paper and upon finishing it my name was called. I was led to that 'all too familiar' examination room.
Dr. Mehta arrived shortly thereafter and got right to work. He said that my tests results were normal. He also mentioned that my liver was doing fine. [I don't recall any conversations about my liver, but I suppose the 'poison' would affect all organs. I'm glad that he is doing his due diligence in checking my vital organs for their tolerance.]
Going through his list, Dr. Mehta asked for a status update on expected side effects and those that have been self reported. I had mentioned that I did experience 'tingling' in the balls of both feet after mowing the lawn, yesterday. He asked if it was intermittent and I said yes. He asked how the numbness to my forefinger and thumb was doing. I said, "It's still there, but has lessened a bit. However, I recall that at the end of the last chemo that had also happened, but worsened as the chemo was being 'processed' by my body." He typed in some notes to the file.
Dr. Mehta then examined my breathing, heart beat and felt my neck glands. He then said, "You continue to amaze me. You are cleared for the next chemo." With mixed emotions I replied, "Yay".
He scheduled a follow-up and also a tentative date for chemo # 4 - August 13th. [Where did the summer go?] He shook my hand and said, "Good luck."
Prick a vein - any vein (or two, or three)
Entering the Chemo Unit, I had hoped to find my lucky station 7 available. But as fate would have it, station 8 was the only vacancy. It's located in the corner away from the windows and (to me) seemed to be darker and more conducive to napping while being injected. [Sounds like an arrestable offense - NWI.] I made myself comfortable and waited for the nurse. I was hoping for Liz, but didn't see her on the floor. Not too long after, Roberta looking at both patient number 7 and me said, "Which of you were here first?" Being truthful, I said, "She was here first." [I did have ulterior motives. Roberta was the nurse I had last time that said she "has bifocals and always looks over them". I still had the bruise from her 'oopsie' and really didn't want her using me as a pin cushion again.] Well as the luck of # 8 had it, she was 'ready for me'. OK, maybe she was having a bad day last time. Maybe she has new glasses. Maybe she'll look through them.
After Roberta tied off my arm and circulation she was feeling for veins to use. My vein from chemo #1 was still tender. I suggested using the vein we ended up with last time. She said, "Well I was looking at this vein, but maybe your suggestion would be better." She tapped and rubbed and swabbed then got ready to prick. I don't like watching that part so I looked away. It was uncomfortable and I told her so. She said, "Why is it so dark over here?". We looked up in unison and saw that a light bulb needed to be replaced. [Hindsight is 20/20 - I should have been more insistent in moving to a better lit station or waited until the bulb was replaced.] She poked more and finally 'got in'. But it still didn't feel right to me. Not that there's any thing right about pointy steel jabbed in your arm. [I suppose unless you are a junkie - which my arm could pass for.] I was taped (more than sufficiently) and hooked up to the first of four bags of liquids.
A few hours into this, it was now time for the real poison (Adriamycin). This is so toxic that it has to be administered manually so it can be stopped if something goes wrong. Ollie was doing the honors, and it wasn't too long before I reported that something just didn't seem right. The area was beginning to turn red and there was some discomfort (more than I had been having). She immediately stopped the chemo and began flushing with a saline solution, hoping that the redness would dissipate. Roberta stopped by and said, "We'll have to try another vein." [For joy!]
The bags of poison were quickly removed from the table and new jabbing tools were brought out. Once again my arm was tied off and the rubbing, tapping and pressing began. With a new needle she said, "Let's try this one." No luck there. "Now, let's try this." She began looking up my arm and said she could use the vein they've been tapping for my blood tests. I got my phone out and ran my flashlight app. "Oh that is helpful", she said. [Why did I not think of this earlier?] She was in and it 'felt' right. [Why does that sound odd?]
We were cooking with gas. If my vein were a gold mine, this vein is the mother-load. [Sorry to mix metaphors - but I have chemo brain.] The blood flow was excellent. The poison was 'finished' and the last two bags of fluids were set on auto pilot. We finished up at around 1 PM.
Home now and just waiting for the progression. Head is cloudy and am feeling kind of blah.
More to come.
I was happy to have enjoyed a string of 'good' days since July 13th. I was able to: attend an outdoor concert (4EverFab); head to a few beaches and lakes; enjoy some cook-outs; and even try a few of my favorite restaurants.
Last evening I trekked down to Quincy (nearly 3 hours due to it being during rush hour) and met former RMV/MassDOT colleagues/friends to celebrate the recent retirement of three women I have known and worked with for 25 years. It was a great time. The weather was perfect, the location was gorgeous, the food was fabulous and the company - like coming home to family. It was so good to reconnect and provided a fitting closure to the end of my 'good' days - for awhile, anyway.
Needing to get up earlier than I had been, I set the alarm and made sure I got to bed early. Of course, I didn't sleep well. I woke up an hour before the alarm and decided to start my day. I was dreading this round of chemo. Since round two was worse than round one, why would round three break the pattern. All one can do is expect the best and prepare for the worst.
Getting the approval to proceed
I arrived early for my appointment, however, I was taken right away for my vitals check. My weight was the same, but my pressure was a little high. [I attribute this to my being anxious and not having a good night's sleep. But I'm no doctor, I just play one on TV.] I was asked to return to waiting room until the doctor arrived. I had brought the morning paper and upon finishing it my name was called. I was led to that 'all too familiar' examination room.
Dr. Mehta arrived shortly thereafter and got right to work. He said that my tests results were normal. He also mentioned that my liver was doing fine. [I don't recall any conversations about my liver, but I suppose the 'poison' would affect all organs. I'm glad that he is doing his due diligence in checking my vital organs for their tolerance.]
Going through his list, Dr. Mehta asked for a status update on expected side effects and those that have been self reported. I had mentioned that I did experience 'tingling' in the balls of both feet after mowing the lawn, yesterday. He asked if it was intermittent and I said yes. He asked how the numbness to my forefinger and thumb was doing. I said, "It's still there, but has lessened a bit. However, I recall that at the end of the last chemo that had also happened, but worsened as the chemo was being 'processed' by my body." He typed in some notes to the file.
Dr. Mehta then examined my breathing, heart beat and felt my neck glands. He then said, "You continue to amaze me. You are cleared for the next chemo." With mixed emotions I replied, "Yay".
He scheduled a follow-up and also a tentative date for chemo # 4 - August 13th. [Where did the summer go?] He shook my hand and said, "Good luck."
Prick a vein - any vein (or two, or three)
Entering the Chemo Unit, I had hoped to find my lucky station 7 available. But as fate would have it, station 8 was the only vacancy. It's located in the corner away from the windows and (to me) seemed to be darker and more conducive to napping while being injected. [Sounds like an arrestable offense - NWI.] I made myself comfortable and waited for the nurse. I was hoping for Liz, but didn't see her on the floor. Not too long after, Roberta looking at both patient number 7 and me said, "Which of you were here first?" Being truthful, I said, "She was here first." [I did have ulterior motives. Roberta was the nurse I had last time that said she "has bifocals and always looks over them". I still had the bruise from her 'oopsie' and really didn't want her using me as a pin cushion again.] Well as the luck of # 8 had it, she was 'ready for me'. OK, maybe she was having a bad day last time. Maybe she has new glasses. Maybe she'll look through them.
After Roberta tied off my arm and circulation she was feeling for veins to use. My vein from chemo #1 was still tender. I suggested using the vein we ended up with last time. She said, "Well I was looking at this vein, but maybe your suggestion would be better." She tapped and rubbed and swabbed then got ready to prick. I don't like watching that part so I looked away. It was uncomfortable and I told her so. She said, "Why is it so dark over here?". We looked up in unison and saw that a light bulb needed to be replaced. [Hindsight is 20/20 - I should have been more insistent in moving to a better lit station or waited until the bulb was replaced.] She poked more and finally 'got in'. But it still didn't feel right to me. Not that there's any thing right about pointy steel jabbed in your arm. [I suppose unless you are a junkie - which my arm could pass for.] I was taped (more than sufficiently) and hooked up to the first of four bags of liquids.
A few hours into this, it was now time for the real poison (Adriamycin). This is so toxic that it has to be administered manually so it can be stopped if something goes wrong. Ollie was doing the honors, and it wasn't too long before I reported that something just didn't seem right. The area was beginning to turn red and there was some discomfort (more than I had been having). She immediately stopped the chemo and began flushing with a saline solution, hoping that the redness would dissipate. Roberta stopped by and said, "We'll have to try another vein." [For joy!]
The bags of poison were quickly removed from the table and new jabbing tools were brought out. Once again my arm was tied off and the rubbing, tapping and pressing began. With a new needle she said, "Let's try this one." No luck there. "Now, let's try this." She began looking up my arm and said she could use the vein they've been tapping for my blood tests. I got my phone out and ran my flashlight app. "Oh that is helpful", she said. [Why did I not think of this earlier?] She was in and it 'felt' right. [Why does that sound odd?]
We were cooking with gas. If my vein were a gold mine, this vein is the mother-load. [Sorry to mix metaphors - but I have chemo brain.] The blood flow was excellent. The poison was 'finished' and the last two bags of fluids were set on auto pilot. We finished up at around 1 PM.
Home now and just waiting for the progression. Head is cloudy and am feeling kind of blah.
More to come.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Chemo # 2 check-in with Dr Mehta
Days leading up to the appointment
I must admit that my battle with fatigue has been the centerpiece of chemo #2. I was warned by Dr Mehta that the cumulative effect of the chemo will amplify those I'm most affected by. Boy he wasn't kidding. However, this time that period seemed to start on July 4th and gained strength before tapering off Sunday, July 12th. The worst was between Monday and Saturday. It's possible that may have been shortened if I had not ventured to mow the lawn on the Thursday, the 9th.
During chemo # 1, I had visited Dr Mehta a week from the treatment. That day seemed to be the first good day, so I thought that the 'week-i-versay' was safe. The things we learn by trying.
Last Thursday was cooler and dryer. The grass really needed mowing and I was feeling OK. Energy levels generally are good in the morning so - to me - why not try? Honestly, while mowing, I still felt OK. It wasn't until I was done and put the mower away that it hit me. I was dizzy and almost to the point of passing out. My peripheral vision was hazy and I had just enough energy to 'collapse' my upper body onto my shed. I never lost consciousness but really wanted to get inside to sit. I managed to stagger onto my three seasons porch and sit.
[This short jaunt was very reminiscent of my being quite intoxicated [during college of course] where I felt like I was a third party in my body and I was just hoping that I'd make my destination.]
It took me a good half hour before I was able to get into the house and rehydrate. [Yes, yes to all those that had offered to help and I had said no. I should have taken you up on it.] That stunt really wiped me out and I paid for it the rest of the day and into Friday.
Yesterday (Monday, July 13th), was a great day. I had energy, felt wonderful and was so pleased to have broken the fatigue. I was able to catch up on some household chores and still have energy to do some cerebral tasks. Very uplifting and encouraging.
Today I don't feel quite as 'good' as yesterday, but I do know that I'll be on a pattern of good and bad days for a while. Prior to my check-in today, I made a grocery run. I finally got my shrimp ;-)
[I asked for a pound and a half when clearly a pound was plenty. So I'll be having shrimp for a few days.]
Appointment Day
When I arrived for my appointment at Dana Farber - Methuen, it was threatening to rain. At the entrance I was greeted with a waft of second hand smoke from a patient smoking next to a "This is a non-smoking campus" sign. Although I wanted to, I said nothing.
At check-in I got my wrist band, quickly had my blood drawn and was soon called back for my vitals. I had lost 5 pounds of that water weight and my pressure was 130/80 - not bad at all. I was asked to wait to be called when the examination room opened up. It wasn't long before I heard my name before being led to a familiar room.
Dr. Mehta arrived after a brief period and began asking about my side effects. I had said that fatigue was the biggest. He asked about stomach pains, nausea, spasms, constipation, numbness and fever.
I said, "I'm still regular and luckily nausea-free. Other than the fatigue, the most notable side effects were: stomach cramps; lack of appetite; lingering numbness in the forefinger and thumb; and intermittent numbness in my toes/feet."
I told him the cramps appeared to be related to gas that I had experienced this time. He asked if I had experienced any mucositis or sores. I had mentioned that I experienced a sloughing of skin in my mouth. He interjected with, "Any sores?" I said, no.
Dr Mehta asked about the intermittent numbness in my feet to which I added, "I noticed that when I'm standing stationary for a period of time, I get the sensation that my feet are falling or have fallen asleep and I get that 'pins and needles' feeling. When I move, it seems to go way." He had no explanation but recorded this in the notes.
He said, "You continue to amaze me." Quizzically, I asked, "How so?" He said while turning the laptop toward me, "You are on your second round of chemo and your white and red blood cell counts are near normal." He showed me a table of data that shows a fairly consistent range. He said, "This is good. You don't need a booster." [I'll take all the praise I can garner at this point.]
He asked about the dermatitis (which has since completely cleared) and if I had had a sore throat. "Knock on wood, no sore throat." He asked - charlie horse? I mentioned that I had one episode but it was because I had not eaten a banana. He entered more notes.
He checked my glands, lungs/breathing and heart. He smiled before saying, "You're good for the next round of chemo, next Thursday." Shaking his hand I said, "I'll be more than half done at that time."
I'm hopin that my good days coincide with the good weather predicted for this weekend and hope to take part in some summer recreation before it slips away.
Thanks to all my family, friends, former co-workers and blog readers for your support, concerns, offers of help and prayers.
I must admit that my battle with fatigue has been the centerpiece of chemo #2. I was warned by Dr Mehta that the cumulative effect of the chemo will amplify those I'm most affected by. Boy he wasn't kidding. However, this time that period seemed to start on July 4th and gained strength before tapering off Sunday, July 12th. The worst was between Monday and Saturday. It's possible that may have been shortened if I had not ventured to mow the lawn on the Thursday, the 9th.
During chemo # 1, I had visited Dr Mehta a week from the treatment. That day seemed to be the first good day, so I thought that the 'week-i-versay' was safe. The things we learn by trying.
Last Thursday was cooler and dryer. The grass really needed mowing and I was feeling OK. Energy levels generally are good in the morning so - to me - why not try? Honestly, while mowing, I still felt OK. It wasn't until I was done and put the mower away that it hit me. I was dizzy and almost to the point of passing out. My peripheral vision was hazy and I had just enough energy to 'collapse' my upper body onto my shed. I never lost consciousness but really wanted to get inside to sit. I managed to stagger onto my three seasons porch and sit.
[This short jaunt was very reminiscent of my being quite intoxicated [during college of course] where I felt like I was a third party in my body and I was just hoping that I'd make my destination.]
It took me a good half hour before I was able to get into the house and rehydrate. [Yes, yes to all those that had offered to help and I had said no. I should have taken you up on it.] That stunt really wiped me out and I paid for it the rest of the day and into Friday.
Yesterday (Monday, July 13th), was a great day. I had energy, felt wonderful and was so pleased to have broken the fatigue. I was able to catch up on some household chores and still have energy to do some cerebral tasks. Very uplifting and encouraging.
Today I don't feel quite as 'good' as yesterday, but I do know that I'll be on a pattern of good and bad days for a while. Prior to my check-in today, I made a grocery run. I finally got my shrimp ;-)
[I asked for a pound and a half when clearly a pound was plenty. So I'll be having shrimp for a few days.]
Appointment Day
When I arrived for my appointment at Dana Farber - Methuen, it was threatening to rain. At the entrance I was greeted with a waft of second hand smoke from a patient smoking next to a "This is a non-smoking campus" sign. Although I wanted to, I said nothing.
At check-in I got my wrist band, quickly had my blood drawn and was soon called back for my vitals. I had lost 5 pounds of that water weight and my pressure was 130/80 - not bad at all. I was asked to wait to be called when the examination room opened up. It wasn't long before I heard my name before being led to a familiar room.
Dr. Mehta arrived after a brief period and began asking about my side effects. I had said that fatigue was the biggest. He asked about stomach pains, nausea, spasms, constipation, numbness and fever.
I said, "I'm still regular and luckily nausea-free. Other than the fatigue, the most notable side effects were: stomach cramps; lack of appetite; lingering numbness in the forefinger and thumb; and intermittent numbness in my toes/feet."
I told him the cramps appeared to be related to gas that I had experienced this time. He asked if I had experienced any mucositis or sores. I had mentioned that I experienced a sloughing of skin in my mouth. He interjected with, "Any sores?" I said, no.
Dr Mehta asked about the intermittent numbness in my feet to which I added, "I noticed that when I'm standing stationary for a period of time, I get the sensation that my feet are falling or have fallen asleep and I get that 'pins and needles' feeling. When I move, it seems to go way." He had no explanation but recorded this in the notes.
He said, "You continue to amaze me." Quizzically, I asked, "How so?" He said while turning the laptop toward me, "You are on your second round of chemo and your white and red blood cell counts are near normal." He showed me a table of data that shows a fairly consistent range. He said, "This is good. You don't need a booster." [I'll take all the praise I can garner at this point.]
He asked about the dermatitis (which has since completely cleared) and if I had had a sore throat. "Knock on wood, no sore throat." He asked - charlie horse? I mentioned that I had one episode but it was because I had not eaten a banana. He entered more notes.
He checked my glands, lungs/breathing and heart. He smiled before saying, "You're good for the next round of chemo, next Thursday." Shaking his hand I said, "I'll be more than half done at that time."
I'm hopin that my good days coincide with the good weather predicted for this weekend and hope to take part in some summer recreation before it slips away.
Thanks to all my family, friends, former co-workers and blog readers for your support, concerns, offers of help and prayers.
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
Almost a week into # 2
Tomorrow will be the first week of chemo #2. I must admit that Dr. Mehta was on the money when he said that I would be fatigued. From last Saturday and continuing until today I've been so fatigued that I can barely do a thing except watch TV. I have managed to do some laundry and household chores, but not without having to stop and rest. Under normal circumstances I would be bouncing off the walls if I weren't doing something. I always have a running 'to do' list, but I'm selective (to the point of doing what's really necessary) in accomplishing anything on the list. Just typing this entry takes energy. My typing skills are suffering and each sentence needs a correction of my misspellings and typos. I've re-read some of my recounting of my first round of chemo and am hopeful that I'll begin to regain energy over time.
As for side effects, other than the fatigue, I'm not really hungry. I do have cravings from time to time and I'll try to satisfy those when I can. I was really wanting shrimp with cocktail sauce the other day. I recall having purchased some cooked and frozen shrimp and retrieved it from the freezer. Of course it needs to thaw. I was bummed to see that it had freezer burn. Not wanting to risk getting ill, I threw it all out. [My trash is going to be extra odoriferous this week.] Still hankering for shrimp, I ventured out to a local Market Basket only to find that all they had was the frozen variety - not the 'eat it now' kind. I resorted to imitation crab, but still have not opened the package. Really not the same.
I'm still experiencing that odd numbness of my forefinger and thumb and I've had to 'banana-up' to combat the charlie horses that have returned. I'm regular, but passing stools is painful. I hope that subsides and/or doesn't worsen. I've had gas pains too. [Not on my list of side effects.] I haven't had nausea, but thoughts of certain foods lessen my appetite. I've lost that 'water weight' again and an additional pound to boot. I've drunk so much flavored water that I'm beginning to turn from that too. I'm resorting to more milk.
I've had no problem sleeping and am keeping to a consistent schedule of sleeping and rising. Weather has been trending warmer with higher humidity, so I'm sure that is also affecting me. Tomorrow is supposed to be cooler and dryer. I'm looking forward to that and hopes that I have higher energy levels.
Things could be much worse. So I continue to do the little things and binge watch. [Almost done with Game of Thrones - five seasons. I'm storing up episodes of season two of True Detective and a few other premium channel series that seem interesting.]
More to come. Thanks for reading.
As for side effects, other than the fatigue, I'm not really hungry. I do have cravings from time to time and I'll try to satisfy those when I can. I was really wanting shrimp with cocktail sauce the other day. I recall having purchased some cooked and frozen shrimp and retrieved it from the freezer. Of course it needs to thaw. I was bummed to see that it had freezer burn. Not wanting to risk getting ill, I threw it all out. [My trash is going to be extra odoriferous this week.] Still hankering for shrimp, I ventured out to a local Market Basket only to find that all they had was the frozen variety - not the 'eat it now' kind. I resorted to imitation crab, but still have not opened the package. Really not the same.
I'm still experiencing that odd numbness of my forefinger and thumb and I've had to 'banana-up' to combat the charlie horses that have returned. I'm regular, but passing stools is painful. I hope that subsides and/or doesn't worsen. I've had gas pains too. [Not on my list of side effects.] I haven't had nausea, but thoughts of certain foods lessen my appetite. I've lost that 'water weight' again and an additional pound to boot. I've drunk so much flavored water that I'm beginning to turn from that too. I'm resorting to more milk.
I've had no problem sleeping and am keeping to a consistent schedule of sleeping and rising. Weather has been trending warmer with higher humidity, so I'm sure that is also affecting me. Tomorrow is supposed to be cooler and dryer. I'm looking forward to that and hopes that I have higher energy levels.
Things could be much worse. So I continue to do the little things and binge watch. [Almost done with Game of Thrones - five seasons. I'm storing up episodes of season two of True Detective and a few other premium channel series that seem interesting.]
More to come. Thanks for reading.
Saturday, July 4, 2015
Fourth of July - update
First off - Happy Independence Day!
Yesterday was the first full day of this second round of chemo. Surprisingly, I didn't have the lingering headache (yet) and my energy level seemed to be 'ok'. I rationalized and put off any mundane chores to another day (since I have time due to retirement). However, I have noticed some (apparent) side effects that I may have had a little of last time. Most notably, my sleep patterns are disrupted. Although I have periods of fatigue and take cat naps (very annoying when I'm watching something and have to 'rewind'), I haven't been able to get a good night's sleep.
Yesterday I was hoping to attend a party in Gloucester, so I tried to conserve all my energy so I could attend. It was a nice ride and a friend drove. We picked up another friend on the way. The weather was beautiful and there was virtually no traffic. We found a place to park with a little walking required, but exercise is good and the weather was very conducive.
The party (billed as an Extravaganza and it truly was) was well attended; had a band; was catered; had a fully stocked open/self service bar (drats no alcohol allowed for me - and I wasn't even the driver) and guests were also bringing in trays of home-made entrees and goodies. There were plenty of tents and seats for everyone who wanted to chow down. The buffet table was being constantly restocked so there wasn't a need for anything except for second and third helpings. Very relaxing.
By 6:15, most revelers were moving seats to the front of the house which was the perfect viewing spot for the parade that passed directly in front. One of the party hosts, who knows every one, entertained us by greeting each parade unit and sometimes marched in front or along side them waving old glory. Lots of sights, sounds and laughs. An excellent time (thanks to the Carls).
After the parade guest retreated to the food once again and of course the bar. For me it was a good time to leave and I'm glad my friends agreed. Traffic wasn't too bad but as we approach home we could see various municipal firework displays which could only mean that traffic would follow. Luckily I was able to convince the driver to take some back roads which allowed us to escape the bottle necks, but made the trip a bit longer.
I got home at 9:45 and decided to watch some TV. I wanted to drink water before bed so I could flush the chemo out (as directed). It was tough. I kept dozing off. Finally, I gave in and went to bed. I did not sleep well. Kept waking up to sounds of illegal fireworks and the occasional rowdy drive-by with unnecessary yelling. Well maybe necessary - it wast the 4th.
I got up at 2 AM because I was so restless. Yes, I fell asleep for a bit in the chair and then decided to go back to bed. Still tossing and turning, I think I finally got a few hours of uninterrupted sleep.
Unlike the weather predictions, the 4th wasn't sunny, but overcast with a chance of showers. I suppose it's just as well. I thought that I may mow the lawn, but my energy level is too low. I may not even run the washing machine. I'm feeling pretty blah and bloated. Last time I attributed the bloating to the prednisone, but I'm well off that. I know I ate last night, but I don't think that would equate to almost a five pound weight gain. I am after all, forcing more water than I generally drink and I feel puffy. However, my ankles are OK. If I were retaining water there, it would trigger a condition that needs medical attention. So I'll give it time and maybe over the next few days I'll pass this water weight through. (hopefully). I hate seeing those numbers on the scale.
The tingling in my thumb and forefinger is a bit more prevalent. (Weirdest thing - just annoying.) I'm slowly losing more hair elsewhere on my body - slowly but surely. I really don't have much of an appetite or willingness to anything today. I guess it's going to be one of those days that I become a lump and hope for a better day tomorrow.
Well at least I celebrated last night.
More to come.
Yesterday was the first full day of this second round of chemo. Surprisingly, I didn't have the lingering headache (yet) and my energy level seemed to be 'ok'. I rationalized and put off any mundane chores to another day (since I have time due to retirement). However, I have noticed some (apparent) side effects that I may have had a little of last time. Most notably, my sleep patterns are disrupted. Although I have periods of fatigue and take cat naps (very annoying when I'm watching something and have to 'rewind'), I haven't been able to get a good night's sleep.
Yesterday I was hoping to attend a party in Gloucester, so I tried to conserve all my energy so I could attend. It was a nice ride and a friend drove. We picked up another friend on the way. The weather was beautiful and there was virtually no traffic. We found a place to park with a little walking required, but exercise is good and the weather was very conducive.
The party (billed as an Extravaganza and it truly was) was well attended; had a band; was catered; had a fully stocked open/self service bar (drats no alcohol allowed for me - and I wasn't even the driver) and guests were also bringing in trays of home-made entrees and goodies. There were plenty of tents and seats for everyone who wanted to chow down. The buffet table was being constantly restocked so there wasn't a need for anything except for second and third helpings. Very relaxing.
By 6:15, most revelers were moving seats to the front of the house which was the perfect viewing spot for the parade that passed directly in front. One of the party hosts, who knows every one, entertained us by greeting each parade unit and sometimes marched in front or along side them waving old glory. Lots of sights, sounds and laughs. An excellent time (thanks to the Carls).
After the parade guest retreated to the food once again and of course the bar. For me it was a good time to leave and I'm glad my friends agreed. Traffic wasn't too bad but as we approach home we could see various municipal firework displays which could only mean that traffic would follow. Luckily I was able to convince the driver to take some back roads which allowed us to escape the bottle necks, but made the trip a bit longer.
I got home at 9:45 and decided to watch some TV. I wanted to drink water before bed so I could flush the chemo out (as directed). It was tough. I kept dozing off. Finally, I gave in and went to bed. I did not sleep well. Kept waking up to sounds of illegal fireworks and the occasional rowdy drive-by with unnecessary yelling. Well maybe necessary - it wast the 4th.
I got up at 2 AM because I was so restless. Yes, I fell asleep for a bit in the chair and then decided to go back to bed. Still tossing and turning, I think I finally got a few hours of uninterrupted sleep.
Unlike the weather predictions, the 4th wasn't sunny, but overcast with a chance of showers. I suppose it's just as well. I thought that I may mow the lawn, but my energy level is too low. I may not even run the washing machine. I'm feeling pretty blah and bloated. Last time I attributed the bloating to the prednisone, but I'm well off that. I know I ate last night, but I don't think that would equate to almost a five pound weight gain. I am after all, forcing more water than I generally drink and I feel puffy. However, my ankles are OK. If I were retaining water there, it would trigger a condition that needs medical attention. So I'll give it time and maybe over the next few days I'll pass this water weight through. (hopefully). I hate seeing those numbers on the scale.
The tingling in my thumb and forefinger is a bit more prevalent. (Weirdest thing - just annoying.) I'm slowly losing more hair elsewhere on my body - slowly but surely. I really don't have much of an appetite or willingness to anything today. I guess it's going to be one of those days that I become a lump and hope for a better day tomorrow.
Well at least I celebrated last night.
More to come.
Thursday, July 2, 2015
Chemo # 2
Last evening I had a call that my 'ride' to and from the hospital wouldn't happen due to unforeseen circumstances. Many have said that they would help if needed and I did a quick inventory (in my head) and decided to call my sister Donna. Unfortunately she had a commitment that couldn't be changed, but offered up (her husband, John) my brother-in-law. Reporting back later it appeared that he too had a commitment. We did have a back up plan in the event I couldn't find any one - I would drive myself and we'd figure out a way to get my car back after I was picked up. That was a strong plan, but luckily a call to a nearby friend yielded the plan placed into action. His father [Ed], 'snow-birds it' during the winter months and summers up here. 'He doesn't have anything planned, so he'll take you and pick you up." Excellent!
Ed arrived a few minutes early and I arrived at the Dana Farber Cancer unit - Methuen, ahead of my appointment. It seemed to be a good time as there were very few patients waiting and no one ahead of me at the reception. Other than the 'slow computers', the check in was uneventful and I soon sporting my wristband. "Have a seat and you'll be called", she said.
I sat and checked some email and texts and was called into the examination room for a check of my vitals. Yup, I was alive. "Dr Mehta will be right with you", I was told.
Dr Mehta arrived and noticed my bald head and said he 'liked the look' [while grinning]. While reviewing my notes he said that my labs came back normal [had a blood test yesterday]. He said that my bone marrow did well for the first round of chemo and I did not need a booster. However, he did caution me that I may not be as fortunate this round and may experience more fatigue. He added that he wanted to see me on July 14th. [I made a reference to Bastille Day and I didn't get the impression that he got the connection. To that I say: Let him eat cake.]
He continued and asked for an update on my charlie horse, thrush and numbness. "Bananas seem to be the cure for the charlie horse", I said. I explained that the numbness in my feet seems to have dissipated, but my thumb and forefinger still are 'weird'. The thrush did turn into a sore throat which I treated with asprin. It finally cleared up.
Dr. Mehta then said let me check you out. He looked into my mouth and after a few 'aaahs' he said the thrush is gone. [Yay]. He listened to my chest and heart and said all was good. I did add that my vein was still tender to the touch and asked if it made sense to use another vein so it could heal. He said there were four veins to choose from and it shouldn't be a problem. [Yay] So I ventured off to the Chemo room.
It was standing room only in the chemo room. Much like visiting a restaurant during the lunch or dinner rush there was a line waiting for vacated seats. Timing is everything because two were leaving and I was able to snag my previous chair (number 7). Not that I gamble or am superstitious - well maybe a little superstitious. I was thinking lucky sevens.
Elizabeth wasn't on duty and I overheard the nurses telling other patients that she had the weekend off to go to her beach house. Good for her, but I was thinking bad for me. So much for lucky sevens.
My executioner...errr, nurse for the day stopped by and asked my name and date of birth. She went to her computer and entered some information, left the room and then returned with a heaping helping of fluids. She said that she needed to 'set me up' [poke me with the IV feed] and asked if I had a preference (arm). I told her that some lymph nodes were removed from my left arm. She said, "Then the decision is already made." I added that the vein previously used needed more time to heal and Dr. Mehta said that we should use another. She said that she was going to use (while pointing) "this one". Perfect.
She got her 'works' out and proceeded set up the IV. I never liked to watch this part, so I averted my eyes and hoped for just a pinch. Many times in the past I was always given the warning, "You'll feel a pinch". No warning, but a declaration that she has bifocals and always looks over them. Not one to have corrective lenses, I didn't get what that meant. However, I soon had visions of Mr Magoo as I felt the need go into my arm's 'meat'. I looked and saw her pulling it out and pushing it in, then finally pulled out as she took gauze and pressed the freshly spilled blood. I asked, "What happened here?" She said, "I blew it. I went through the vein and backed out and messed it up." I said, 'So do we need to pick a different vein?" I was told that she was able to go past the first attempt site and use the same vein. "Ok, you are in charge." Jokingly she said, "Yes, never argue with the person with the needle in the their hands." She had better success this time. Maybe she opened her eyes while looking over the bifocals.
I two bags of fluids dripped into me then she said it's time for the chemo. That red Kool-ade measures high on my fright meter. And once again there were two huge syringes of it that had to be 'pushed' into me. We chit chatted a bit about Prince Edward Island (where her family is from) and other vacation destinations in the US. All interesting and really helped pass the time. I only looked down three times. Finally she said, "It's time for the Cyclophosphamide." Although it was clear in color, it scares just as much as the Adriamycin (Kool-ade). About an hour after the start of that last bag, I was told I could leave. [Yay]
I called for my ride home and wished various healthcare workers a safe and happy 4th.
Home now (obviously) and trying to drink plenty of fluids so I can flush that poison out. Just feeling kind of 'fuzzy brained and generally blahhh'
More to come.
Ed arrived a few minutes early and I arrived at the Dana Farber Cancer unit - Methuen, ahead of my appointment. It seemed to be a good time as there were very few patients waiting and no one ahead of me at the reception. Other than the 'slow computers', the check in was uneventful and I soon sporting my wristband. "Have a seat and you'll be called", she said.
I sat and checked some email and texts and was called into the examination room for a check of my vitals. Yup, I was alive. "Dr Mehta will be right with you", I was told.
Dr Mehta arrived and noticed my bald head and said he 'liked the look' [while grinning]. While reviewing my notes he said that my labs came back normal [had a blood test yesterday]. He said that my bone marrow did well for the first round of chemo and I did not need a booster. However, he did caution me that I may not be as fortunate this round and may experience more fatigue. He added that he wanted to see me on July 14th. [I made a reference to Bastille Day and I didn't get the impression that he got the connection. To that I say: Let him eat cake.]
He continued and asked for an update on my charlie horse, thrush and numbness. "Bananas seem to be the cure for the charlie horse", I said. I explained that the numbness in my feet seems to have dissipated, but my thumb and forefinger still are 'weird'. The thrush did turn into a sore throat which I treated with asprin. It finally cleared up.
Dr. Mehta then said let me check you out. He looked into my mouth and after a few 'aaahs' he said the thrush is gone. [Yay]. He listened to my chest and heart and said all was good. I did add that my vein was still tender to the touch and asked if it made sense to use another vein so it could heal. He said there were four veins to choose from and it shouldn't be a problem. [Yay] So I ventured off to the Chemo room.
It was standing room only in the chemo room. Much like visiting a restaurant during the lunch or dinner rush there was a line waiting for vacated seats. Timing is everything because two were leaving and I was able to snag my previous chair (number 7). Not that I gamble or am superstitious - well maybe a little superstitious. I was thinking lucky sevens.
Elizabeth wasn't on duty and I overheard the nurses telling other patients that she had the weekend off to go to her beach house. Good for her, but I was thinking bad for me. So much for lucky sevens.
My executioner...errr, nurse for the day stopped by and asked my name and date of birth. She went to her computer and entered some information, left the room and then returned with a heaping helping of fluids. She said that she needed to 'set me up' [poke me with the IV feed] and asked if I had a preference (arm). I told her that some lymph nodes were removed from my left arm. She said, "Then the decision is already made." I added that the vein previously used needed more time to heal and Dr. Mehta said that we should use another. She said that she was going to use (while pointing) "this one". Perfect.
She got her 'works' out and proceeded set up the IV. I never liked to watch this part, so I averted my eyes and hoped for just a pinch. Many times in the past I was always given the warning, "You'll feel a pinch". No warning, but a declaration that she has bifocals and always looks over them. Not one to have corrective lenses, I didn't get what that meant. However, I soon had visions of Mr Magoo as I felt the need go into my arm's 'meat'. I looked and saw her pulling it out and pushing it in, then finally pulled out as she took gauze and pressed the freshly spilled blood. I asked, "What happened here?" She said, "I blew it. I went through the vein and backed out and messed it up." I said, 'So do we need to pick a different vein?" I was told that she was able to go past the first attempt site and use the same vein. "Ok, you are in charge." Jokingly she said, "Yes, never argue with the person with the needle in the their hands." She had better success this time. Maybe she opened her eyes while looking over the bifocals.
I two bags of fluids dripped into me then she said it's time for the chemo. That red Kool-ade measures high on my fright meter. And once again there were two huge syringes of it that had to be 'pushed' into me. We chit chatted a bit about Prince Edward Island (where her family is from) and other vacation destinations in the US. All interesting and really helped pass the time. I only looked down three times. Finally she said, "It's time for the Cyclophosphamide." Although it was clear in color, it scares just as much as the Adriamycin (Kool-ade). About an hour after the start of that last bag, I was told I could leave. [Yay]
I called for my ride home and wished various healthcare workers a safe and happy 4th.
Home now (obviously) and trying to drink plenty of fluids so I can flush that poison out. Just feeling kind of 'fuzzy brained and generally blahhh'
More to come.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)