That would be me, heading toward the end of chemotherapy, earning the dubious distinction of having had the most side-effects, reactions and allergies from any given drug at any given time. Actually, I'd prefer to think of it as Dancing With The Stars, the Mirror Ball Trophy for side-effects, reactions and allergies. Which I think would look GREAT on my living room sofa table.
I'm finally up and out of bed following the Avastin with Taxol treatment. I've read Steve's comments from the first "attempted" treatment. I have to say, it was all surreal from my perspective. I was talking to Kathi, my chemo nurse, one minute, sitting up unable to breathe the next. Steve slid to a stop outside the door, people magically appeared in the room, an oxygen tube was in my nose, someone was holding my arm and hand, and everyone was talking at once. I thought, jeez, so this is how it ends ?? I'm comforted with the touch of someone's hand to mine, I have eye contact with Steve, and I'm slowly slipping away. It wasn't a bad feeling, just different. Instead of seeing angels and white light, however, I began to breathe more easily, slowly able to recognize the people around me, although Steve remained a constant. After about an hour I was feeling good. If not for the lateness of the hour, the team would have tried an infusion a second time. Saved by the clock I say.
Steve and I went home with steroids and instructions for me to take several at midnight and again at 6 the next morning. Amazing to think these tiny pills could make everything "a go" the next day, but that's exactly what happened. People hovered outside my room the first half hour or so, then went about their morning as usual, knowing I would be "Okay" this time. Nothing like being responsible for keeping hospital staff on their toes !!
Steve and I are down the Cape for the weekend. We went out to dinner last night, first time in over a week for me. I had a glass of wine. HEAVEN. I've planned many activities between now and the next treatment. I look forward to a day with the girls on Sunday. Katie has found a movie theater that serves food and drinks with the show. Way to go Katie !!
Steve and I have Reike sessions scheduled on Tuesday. I have acupuncture and massage on Wednesday. Treatment on Thursday.
As always, my strength comes from YOU. Stay warm and well. Thank you for your love and prayers, from the bottom of my heart.
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2 comments:
Kathy and Steve:
Progress is a wonderful thing. Having all of these experiences behind you must give you great strength and confidence to face the future. We are doing our best to send you strength but you are a very strong person.
Go for the gold!
BB
Kathy, am thinking about you often and you know I identify. Actually I thought I was the one with the most dramatic side effects from every drug ever infused into me, or taken orally. You are almost thru the whole thing, and I am touched by your honest sharing of all of the detail. I couldn't read the books either - gave many away. Will catch up with you soon. TAKE CARE. Love, Karen (un-Martha)
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