web tracker

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Finally, answers...

Well, today was a very productive day medically. We went to the chemo doctor this morning. Found out that my blood counts were all great except the magnesium which was on the low normal range. But the better news is that starting next Monday I start the first radiation treatment. And on Tuesday I start the chemo treatment. Radiation is every morning 5 days a week for 7 weeks. The chemo on Tuesday will be after radiation and is expected to last most of the day. This will be every Tuesday for 7 weeks. So on June 26 I should have my last radiation, assuming there are no problems.

My weight is not what I want but will try hard to keep what I have during these treatments. I hope that the reactions I have had to chemo were not to the cisplatin. But will be taking drugs for that. And hopefully the radiation using the IMRT will allow me to eat and drink for the duration. Biggest effect according to doctors will be fatigue.

Last night I really finished shaving my head so it is truly bald now. It had grown a little and I just decided to finish it off in the shower. I have white semi circles on my fingernails as a result of chemo. Other than being tired I am doing well. Just have to keep pacing myself. No summer camp for me this year. First one I have missed in 25 years. But if I feel pretty good, I may drive to camp for the day. It will be during the last week of treatment. But I do know the boys and adults will do fine without me!

I met Randy face to face this morning. He is starting his second round of chemo and has throat cancer also. He looks good and is doing the same treatment that I am going through. He's off of coffee right now. I was off coffee until after the second chemo. I expect I will not like it again during this last round as this chemo is what affects the taste buds.

So today was getting the last peg in place for the final push. Getting some answers so we can get plans made for the next seven or eight weeks. Needless to say I will be anxious as I go into next week as to what to expect. I am praying that the radiation does not affect my eating or drinking and that the chemo will have a minimal side effect on eating and stomach problems. And that I will be able to work at least 2 days a week. Your prayers and support have gotten us this far. One reason we have stayed in Midland for treatment is because of the support of our friends here. And the prayers and support of our friends, old and new, from across the world has been a blessing I would have never thought could happen. Thank you, thank you, thank you and may God continue to bless you for your support! Nite all...

1 comment:

  1. Have you tryed some Ensure to help with keeping weight on? You can heat it for hot chocolate or chill it as a cold drink (I liked it hot). I used to add a tablespoon of flax oil to a cup of yogurt to bump up the calories as well. Good luck on your journey - you can do it! From - a survivor of 13+ years and counting.

    ReplyDelete