So Far, So Good

It's so good to have the first chemotherapy session behind me. Marcia kept me company for the entire six and a half hours. We spent this time listening to the nurse who gave us more information than we could absorb, but there are many handouts to go over as needed.

We also laughed a lot and caught up on catalogues, pictures of Marcia's precious grandson and the house she and Dan are building in Charlotte, NC. The general atmosphere in the Chemo Room is upbeat and the nurses are wonderful, so I don't think we were too disruptive.

When one is told about every possible side effect and how to handle it, it's very overwhelming. So my approach is to block it all out, and figure that if and when something bad comes along, I'll find the appropriate response in the bulging folder I came away with.

Right now I have my fingers crossed because I feel just a little queasy from time to time, however no big side effects have surfaced. But I know that I could have more fatigue or aches and pains in the days to come, so I'll try to be prepared.

Now to report on previous complaints – I have lost all 20 pounds of the fluid weight, my feet are nearly back to normal (just a little sore), and my incision is healed. I'm not in any pain to speak of so I'm trying to do more of the house chores each day. But I don't hesitate to claim being knackered as the Brits say and letting Karl take over when it seems too much.

For those who want details on the chemo – the drugs I received are Taxol and Carboplatin. Before these came various premeds to help prevent nausea and allergic reactions, plus steroids and blood cell builders. Then the day after (yesterday) I went back for an injection of Aranesp to further stimulate red blood cell production. I will return on August 29 for blood work and another injection of Aranesp if needed.

So that's the update for now. I continue to be showered with cards, calls, meals, flowers and other gifts. Thanks to all of you for your caring and support. I know I would not be doing this well without you.

I forgot one very important thing from this past week, which is that Karl and I celebrated our 42nd anniversary. We are definitely in this for the long run, and the "in sickness and in health" vow means more every day.