I have now had both infusions of my chemo, but I am still taking my prednisone until day 14, or 15 since I started a day late.
When I got home from my first infusion, on Valentine's, I just felt kind of drugged...high...kind of out of it. It was a strange feeling to say the least. That night, for some reason, I stayed up doing random searches on the computer. I think I was trying to plan the wedding I still want to have. :) (I blame this on Sara for making me look at bridesmaid dresses.) I also discovered that the girls Valentine's bouquet had both of their birth month flowers (not on purpose), so then I had to find out what the husband's and mine looked like when combined with the girls. Just random, strange stuff...I think those drugs really gave me some kind of high.
For the next few days, I continued to have a kind of lightheaded, off-balance sort of feeling. It is kind of hard to explain. I took my temperature, since I had been having fevers previously, but they stopped. Actually my temperature was low..like 96-97, but I felt fine. The night sweats pretty much stopped also. I still sweat, or maybe drain, at night, but not bad. I am not waking up soaked, and the sheets don't really get wet at all.
The large lump that I had under my underarm started going down right away, I think. It is almost non-existent now, which I think is awesome considering it was the size of a walnut. The doctor said the lump, or possibly multiple lumps, were blocking my lymphatic drainage because I was having strange swelling, or retention, on my left side. As the lump has disappeared, so has this strange swelling. Yay! Also, my rash, which the doctor doesn't believe is from my cancer, but I always get with my cancer, is gone. My skin is nice and smooth again!
I was finally starting to feel right in the head again, then it was Thursday again, and time for another chemo. The second infusion didn't seem to make me as crazy. I still felt pretty normal. At least, until last night. At about 4:30, I smelt something that made me crave Chinese food. I came downstairs and googled recipes for fried rice and teriyaki sauce and started cooking. I was finished making, and even eating a little after 6, which is really strange for me. I didn't get distracted...I was very focused on making that food. And, it was delicious..at least it was exactly what I wanted. Yum! I think the girls were a bit confused because we don't normally eat that early, but...
I am still trying to eat good, but it is harder. Maybe it is the steroids, or whatever else they give me, but sometimes I just crave food and have to eat then. I guess I need to stock up on healthier snacks again. I seem to be losing a little bit more weight, possibly because of the cancer or the treatment. It is hard to tell you when I lost it because my scale at home hasn't been working, but when they weighed me on Thursday I was down to 138. (Before diet I was weighing 170-175 and with diet I had gotten down to about 145.)
Thank you for your continued support and prayers.
Showing posts with label Chemotherapy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chemotherapy. Show all posts
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Doctor's Appointment
I had an appointment with my LV oncologist today. He spent quite a bit of time talking to me, explaining things, and trying to answer my questions. He also went over my PET scan results from the 14th. He didn't have the images, which I really wanted to see, but he tried to explain the written findings.
Questions and paraphrased answers
Are we sure that we are treating the right cancer?
We trust the findings of the pathologist. They are the ones that determine the biopsy results. All of the chemos that you have had this time Gemzar/Navelbine and the ICE treat a wide variety of cancers. We have basically been dropping bombs on you...the new treatment (Adcetris) is more targeted.
Why haven't the chemos been working? Why does my lymphoma look different this time? (Not sure if he exactly answered my second question but the answers related to each other.)
I can't tell you for sure why they aren't working. But a few cells probably survived the ABVD from your first time with cancer. Because they survived this effective chemo...they became stronger. When they came out of lying around dormant they starting growing the new lymphoma. It is stronger and more resistant to treatment.
What about treatment?
Brentuximab (Adcetris) was recently approved...I think just last year. I haven't had to give it to any of my patients because they have had results with their chemo and Hodgkin's isn't that common....and usually ABVD works for people the first time. It is a drug of the future. It targets the cancer cells specifically. The antibody that is attracted and attaches to the cancer cell is bonded with a chemo so the chemo goes right into the face of the cancer instead of floating around your whole body killing cancer cells along with good cells. When a new drug comes out it starts out being used for people with few other options and gradually gets used earlier and earlier in treatment. I had to talk with the head of your insurance because they weren't going to approve it...it was only supposed to be approved if you had failed remission after the stem cell transplant. I told the guy that he had a chance to make a difference in your life and he approved it. The goal is to get the cancer to respond to the treatment and then still send you on for the high dose chemo and transplant. We are going to give you two treatments and then send you back for another scan.
What about the side effects? PML?
The side effects are like most chemos...lower blood counts, nausea, tiredness, numbness in the hands or feet. There is nothing we can do for you to prevent or prepare for PML but it is a very rare side effect. And if it happens it would mean I'm dead. Well I wouldn't have said it quite like that. I'm not sure if there is a treatment for PML.
What about my port? If I'm not able to use it...I want it taken out.
I think that we can use it. I would like to have them access it today for your treatment if you are ok with it. Since your arm is no longer swollen it wouldn't appear that you still have a clot. I think that we should use it. Sometimes cancer patients blood gets thicker and is more likely to clot. We are going to keep you on the Lovenox shots rather than Coumadin because it is easier to regulate for someone like you...going through treatment ...and if your counts get low and you need to stop it...you can stop it immediately whereas Coumadin is still in your system for a few days.
The PET results
"new enlarged gastrohepatic, left paraortic and aortocaval lymph nodes, as well as mild uptake in a new left sub pectoralis node, as detailed above, suggestive of progression of malignant disease." This is all new growth since the PET scan from April 24th.
After speaking with the doctor I decided to go ahead with the treatment they had planned for me to have. They accessed my port fine and I received my premeds (anti-nausea and Benadryl) and my first dose of Adcetris. The whole infusion with premeds and Adcetris took about an hour...not very long at all. I am scheduled for my second treatment on July 17th.
Questions and paraphrased answers
Are we sure that we are treating the right cancer?
We trust the findings of the pathologist. They are the ones that determine the biopsy results. All of the chemos that you have had this time Gemzar/Navelbine and the ICE treat a wide variety of cancers. We have basically been dropping bombs on you...the new treatment (Adcetris) is more targeted.
Why haven't the chemos been working? Why does my lymphoma look different this time? (Not sure if he exactly answered my second question but the answers related to each other.)
I can't tell you for sure why they aren't working. But a few cells probably survived the ABVD from your first time with cancer. Because they survived this effective chemo...they became stronger. When they came out of lying around dormant they starting growing the new lymphoma. It is stronger and more resistant to treatment.
What about treatment?
Brentuximab (Adcetris) was recently approved...I think just last year. I haven't had to give it to any of my patients because they have had results with their chemo and Hodgkin's isn't that common....and usually ABVD works for people the first time. It is a drug of the future. It targets the cancer cells specifically. The antibody that is attracted and attaches to the cancer cell is bonded with a chemo so the chemo goes right into the face of the cancer instead of floating around your whole body killing cancer cells along with good cells. When a new drug comes out it starts out being used for people with few other options and gradually gets used earlier and earlier in treatment. I had to talk with the head of your insurance because they weren't going to approve it...it was only supposed to be approved if you had failed remission after the stem cell transplant. I told the guy that he had a chance to make a difference in your life and he approved it. The goal is to get the cancer to respond to the treatment and then still send you on for the high dose chemo and transplant. We are going to give you two treatments and then send you back for another scan.
What about the side effects? PML?
The side effects are like most chemos...lower blood counts, nausea, tiredness, numbness in the hands or feet. There is nothing we can do for you to prevent or prepare for PML but it is a very rare side effect. And if it happens it would mean I'm dead. Well I wouldn't have said it quite like that. I'm not sure if there is a treatment for PML.
What about my port? If I'm not able to use it...I want it taken out.
I think that we can use it. I would like to have them access it today for your treatment if you are ok with it. Since your arm is no longer swollen it wouldn't appear that you still have a clot. I think that we should use it. Sometimes cancer patients blood gets thicker and is more likely to clot. We are going to keep you on the Lovenox shots rather than Coumadin because it is easier to regulate for someone like you...going through treatment ...and if your counts get low and you need to stop it...you can stop it immediately whereas Coumadin is still in your system for a few days.
The PET results
"new enlarged gastrohepatic, left paraortic and aortocaval lymph nodes, as well as mild uptake in a new left sub pectoralis node, as detailed above, suggestive of progression of malignant disease." This is all new growth since the PET scan from April 24th.
After speaking with the doctor I decided to go ahead with the treatment they had planned for me to have. They accessed my port fine and I received my premeds (anti-nausea and Benadryl) and my first dose of Adcetris. The whole infusion with premeds and Adcetris took about an hour...not very long at all. I am scheduled for my second treatment on July 17th.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Going Bald
Since my hair had been making a mess all over the house I asked my husband to just shave what was left off. He wanted to make sure I really wanted to and that I wasn't just doing it to be crazy. :) So on May 19th or 20th, we did it. I wasn't sure how I would feel....but my sweet husband encouraged me and made me still feel attractive. He said, "Just look at yourself...it doesn't look bad at all...I kind of like it." And I looked in the mirror...and it wasn't that bad. My head actually isn't a bad shape but it sure is white. :) My husband was like, "Dang your head is white." But I have always, since I was a born, had hair on my head...of course it is white. I was kind of nervous on how the girls would react to it so I went down with a scarf on my head. My oldest wanted to know why I had that on my head so I told her that the rest of my hair was gone...Mama doesn't have hair anymore. She of course wanted to see...so I took of my scarf and showed her my head and told her, "Feel it, it feels funny". So, she rubbed my head and laughed, then the youngest followed her big sister and did the same. They handled it so much better than I could have hoped for.
I got some hats and scarves to cover my head, but after I had been bald for a few days, I just started leaving the coverings off at home. I feel much more comfortable without something on my head. Of course I put something on my head when I go out...and now I can't really walk around without people knowing something is wrong. When I had my hair still, no one could tell I was sick...without it...there is no denying it. I tried on my wig...and it just looked wrong...and the girls didn't like it. The oldest said, "What's that hair on you?" :) I recently had the bangs trimmed which helped a lot. It looks better and more natural now, but...it just isn't my hair. Maybe I am just not a wig person...
My husband said I should get a tattoo on my head and then when my hair grows back in...no one will even know it is there. I think that would be entirely too painful...and I really wouldn't want to spend money on a tattoo that would be covered up with my hair...that no one, not even I would be able to see. ;)
I must say there are some nice things about going bald... Showers are much faster and I don't have to spend time blow-drying my hair. I am much cooler outside in this summer heat. I can stand in a wind and there isn't any annoying hair blowing in my face. And the rest of my body too...my legs stay smooth for days after shaving whereas before it was only hours. I only shave my underarms maybe once a week instead of daily. Of course I would rather not have cancer, be going through chemo, and have lost my hair...but I might as well enjoy the benefits while I can.
The two top pictures are right before my husband shaved my head. (I should have put some makeup on..kind of scary picture.) And the bottom is my glamour bald shot. :) It is weird but these pictures capture how I felt...I felt more sick looking balding than bald.
I got some hats and scarves to cover my head, but after I had been bald for a few days, I just started leaving the coverings off at home. I feel much more comfortable without something on my head. Of course I put something on my head when I go out...and now I can't really walk around without people knowing something is wrong. When I had my hair still, no one could tell I was sick...without it...there is no denying it. I tried on my wig...and it just looked wrong...and the girls didn't like it. The oldest said, "What's that hair on you?" :) I recently had the bangs trimmed which helped a lot. It looks better and more natural now, but...it just isn't my hair. Maybe I am just not a wig person...
My husband said I should get a tattoo on my head and then when my hair grows back in...no one will even know it is there. I think that would be entirely too painful...and I really wouldn't want to spend money on a tattoo that would be covered up with my hair...that no one, not even I would be able to see. ;)
I must say there are some nice things about going bald... Showers are much faster and I don't have to spend time blow-drying my hair. I am much cooler outside in this summer heat. I can stand in a wind and there isn't any annoying hair blowing in my face. And the rest of my body too...my legs stay smooth for days after shaving whereas before it was only hours. I only shave my underarms maybe once a week instead of daily. Of course I would rather not have cancer, be going through chemo, and have lost my hair...but I might as well enjoy the benefits while I can.
The two top pictures are right before my husband shaved my head. (I should have put some makeup on..kind of scary picture.) And the bottom is my glamour bald shot. :) It is weird but these pictures capture how I felt...I felt more sick looking balding than bald.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Hair Loss....Boo! :(
Although I can't say I wasn't warned, I can't say that I was expecting it either....bye bye hair.
Sunday, May 6th, I got my hair cut in short chin length bob, with a stacked back. It looked really cute. I wanted to get something shorter, not only to be easier to manage, but also because I knew there was the possibility that my hair would be falling out soon. I had always heard that hair loss was a little easier with shorter hair...it is....I'm positive.
My hair started coming out Thursday, May 10th. There was hair constantly coming out...strands coming out every time I ran my fingers through it. The shower was even worse....handfuls of hair came out. The bathroom trashcan looked like it had a dead hamster in it after every shower. The hair loss became more and more noticeable. There is hair all over my house...on my pillow, all over my bathroom, on the recliner, all over the back of my shirt, in my food...very annoying. I can now see why people just go ahead and shave their heads. By Mother's Day, you could clearly see my scalp. I wore a baseball cap on our trip to the Secret Garden. I would definately feel uncomfortable being seen in public without something covering my head now. I can pretty much forget about it until I look in the mirror....I told my Mom that I look like Smeagol from the Lord of the Rings. Now that I have a few options for head coverings, and more on the way since we ordered some today, I am going to have my husband just shave my head. I know it will be hard to see the last of my hair gone, but the hair all over is really getting on my nerves.
I have two books that I got for the girls that talk about mom's losing their hair. We have read them and talked to my oldest about it. I think she still has questions and she seems more comfortable asking them when we read one of the books. I know that it will be strange for all of us, but it is just hair....it will grow back. I know I will be telling myself this quite a bit over the coming weeks or months. Hopefully it is a good sign....that my cancer will finally be killed...for good this time!!!
Sunday, May 6th, I got my hair cut in short chin length bob, with a stacked back. It looked really cute. I wanted to get something shorter, not only to be easier to manage, but also because I knew there was the possibility that my hair would be falling out soon. I had always heard that hair loss was a little easier with shorter hair...it is....I'm positive.
My hair started coming out Thursday, May 10th. There was hair constantly coming out...strands coming out every time I ran my fingers through it. The shower was even worse....handfuls of hair came out. The bathroom trashcan looked like it had a dead hamster in it after every shower. The hair loss became more and more noticeable. There is hair all over my house...on my pillow, all over my bathroom, on the recliner, all over the back of my shirt, in my food...very annoying. I can now see why people just go ahead and shave their heads. By Mother's Day, you could clearly see my scalp. I wore a baseball cap on our trip to the Secret Garden. I would definately feel uncomfortable being seen in public without something covering my head now. I can pretty much forget about it until I look in the mirror....I told my Mom that I look like Smeagol from the Lord of the Rings. Now that I have a few options for head coverings, and more on the way since we ordered some today, I am going to have my husband just shave my head. I know it will be hard to see the last of my hair gone, but the hair all over is really getting on my nerves.
I have two books that I got for the girls that talk about mom's losing their hair. We have read them and talked to my oldest about it. I think she still has questions and she seems more comfortable asking them when we read one of the books. I know that it will be strange for all of us, but it is just hair....it will grow back. I know I will be telling myself this quite a bit over the coming weeks or months. Hopefully it is a good sign....that my cancer will finally be killed...for good this time!!!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Transplant: Postponed Until Further Notice
My husband and I flew into LA the evening of April 22 and got to our hotel to settle in for the PET scan and stem cell harvest the next day.
The PET scan went smoothly...then I was off to be harvested. I got to the hemapheresis unit at about 12:30 and by 1pm, they had me hooked up. They put in two IVs, one took the blood out and the other brought the blood (minus my stem cells) back in. I just had to sit there, relatively still for about 3 hours while my blood went through this machine that separated out my stem cells. When it was over they took out the IVs and taped on some ice packs. They had me verify my name etc. on a bag of what looked like watery blood, which I later found out was my stem cells. We were told they probably wouldn't have the count, to know if I had to harvest again, until the next day.
The next morning my transplant coordinator called to let us know that harvesting was done. They collected more than enough in one day! They needed 2 million and I gave them over 5 million. I was glad I didn't have to sit there again...mainly just because it was boring and I got tired of not getting to move. The coordinator let me know that a doctor, not my normal UCLA doc because she was on vacation, wanted to meet with me to go over the PET scan results. The meeting was going to happen at 12:30, and we didn't have our flight out until the next day so we decided we would go to the beach after speaking with the doctor. Then...
At the doctor's office the doctor bluntly explained that the scan showed new growth...Ugh! He said he felt bad meeting me that way but...he wanted me to get a round of ICE chemo right away. He asked why my doctors had been giving me the Gemzar/Navelbine chemo and called it an "old lady" chemo. Well,....I don't know why. I just remember hearing something about them preferring to use that over another round with ABVD(my first chemo combination). I think mainly because ABVD can be hard on your heart. So...I got checked into the room and they put me on IV hydration. I assumed they would try to get started early the next day, but I didn't get my PICC line until almost noon and didn't get my first chemo, Etoposide, until 8pm. I don't really like waiting around. Then the next day they tell me that I will be checking out the following day. To which we respond, "How? I've only had 1 day of chemo and I still need two more." That days chemo wasn't scheduled to begin until 8pm. So they figured things out and started my chemo early. I received 1 hour infusions of Etoposide and Carboplatin and then got started on my 24 hour infusion of Ifosfamide. The Ifosfamide one kind of scared me because it came in a glass bottle instead of the regular IV bags and it was the one with the side effects to watch for...but I didn't have any bad side effects. My infusion of Ifosfamide was set to be finished at about 5pm so my nurse ran my last infusion of Etoposide along with it, so they would finish close to the same time. Then I was able to be discharged and go back to the hotel with my husband. My main instruction was to drink a lot of water. I did drink almost a gallon of water in a 24 hour period. Our flight home wasn't until the following evening so...
The next day, we went to the beach. We rode a bus down to the Santa Monica Pier, had lunch, and a nice little walk on the beach. The water was freezing! It was a lot of fun...and of course we had to get presents for the girls! Then we were off on a bus back to the hotel to pick up our luggage and then having to rush to make it to the shuttle back to the airport. We made it...and we were so happy to be home! We missed the girls so much!
I met with my new LV doctor today. Although he isn't sure...he thinks that I will be doing another treatment with ICE before I get another PET scan. Then, hopefully the transplant will be back on track. Die Cancer Die!!!
The PET scan went smoothly...then I was off to be harvested. I got to the hemapheresis unit at about 12:30 and by 1pm, they had me hooked up. They put in two IVs, one took the blood out and the other brought the blood (minus my stem cells) back in. I just had to sit there, relatively still for about 3 hours while my blood went through this machine that separated out my stem cells. When it was over they took out the IVs and taped on some ice packs. They had me verify my name etc. on a bag of what looked like watery blood, which I later found out was my stem cells. We were told they probably wouldn't have the count, to know if I had to harvest again, until the next day.
The next morning my transplant coordinator called to let us know that harvesting was done. They collected more than enough in one day! They needed 2 million and I gave them over 5 million. I was glad I didn't have to sit there again...mainly just because it was boring and I got tired of not getting to move. The coordinator let me know that a doctor, not my normal UCLA doc because she was on vacation, wanted to meet with me to go over the PET scan results. The meeting was going to happen at 12:30, and we didn't have our flight out until the next day so we decided we would go to the beach after speaking with the doctor. Then...
At the doctor's office the doctor bluntly explained that the scan showed new growth...Ugh! He said he felt bad meeting me that way but...he wanted me to get a round of ICE chemo right away. He asked why my doctors had been giving me the Gemzar/Navelbine chemo and called it an "old lady" chemo. Well,....I don't know why. I just remember hearing something about them preferring to use that over another round with ABVD(my first chemo combination). I think mainly because ABVD can be hard on your heart. So...I got checked into the room and they put me on IV hydration. I assumed they would try to get started early the next day, but I didn't get my PICC line until almost noon and didn't get my first chemo, Etoposide, until 8pm. I don't really like waiting around. Then the next day they tell me that I will be checking out the following day. To which we respond, "How? I've only had 1 day of chemo and I still need two more." That days chemo wasn't scheduled to begin until 8pm. So they figured things out and started my chemo early. I received 1 hour infusions of Etoposide and Carboplatin and then got started on my 24 hour infusion of Ifosfamide. The Ifosfamide one kind of scared me because it came in a glass bottle instead of the regular IV bags and it was the one with the side effects to watch for...but I didn't have any bad side effects. My infusion of Ifosfamide was set to be finished at about 5pm so my nurse ran my last infusion of Etoposide along with it, so they would finish close to the same time. Then I was able to be discharged and go back to the hotel with my husband. My main instruction was to drink a lot of water. I did drink almost a gallon of water in a 24 hour period. Our flight home wasn't until the following evening so...
The next day, we went to the beach. We rode a bus down to the Santa Monica Pier, had lunch, and a nice little walk on the beach. The water was freezing! It was a lot of fun...and of course we had to get presents for the girls! Then we were off on a bus back to the hotel to pick up our luggage and then having to rush to make it to the shuttle back to the airport. We made it...and we were so happy to be home! We missed the girls so much!
I met with my new LV doctor today. Although he isn't sure...he thinks that I will be doing another treatment with ICE before I get another PET scan. Then, hopefully the transplant will be back on track. Die Cancer Die!!!
Friday, April 13, 2012
Last chemo...
Well, today was the last chemo of the Gemzar and Navelbine that I will receive. I never really thought that it would be bittersweet to end chemo but it really was. I was hoping that my INR level would be high enough so that I could stop the Lovenox shots, but unfortunately it wasn't. So, since I start my Neupogen injections tomorrow and still have to take my Lovenox, I will be getting 4 shots a day, 2 of each. And my poor husband has to give them all to me since I'm a chicken. :) My stomach is running out of places to poke so he might have to use my thighs and upper arms. I am getting my INR tested again on Thursday...please let it be high enough!!
Yesterday my husband and I flew to LA to meet with the doctor and transplant coordinator. It was a very long day. We flew out at 8:30am and got to UCLA earlier than needed. We just sat around waiting for the coordinator to meet with us. Before she came over to meet with us she called and asked me if I would be able to squeeze in a PET scan while I was there. I knew that I wouldn't have time with our return flight being at 5:30 so I called the airline to see how much they would charge to switch to a later flight. When they said, "No charge" I went ahead and changed our flights to 7:45. Later, after we had been talking with her for awhile we found out that I wouldn't be able to get the PET scan anyway because one of their machines was down...we changed our tickets for nothing. I also found out that they won't be able to use my port for my high dose chemo/SCT. They need something called a double lumen so I will have to have something temporary inserted for my stay there. So that means....I didn't need this port! The Gemzar/Navelbine could have just gone in an IV, it gave me another scar and it most likely caused my blood clot...and I didn't even need it... :( Oh well...it's already done.
Yesterday my husband and I flew to LA to meet with the doctor and transplant coordinator. It was a very long day. We flew out at 8:30am and got to UCLA earlier than needed. We just sat around waiting for the coordinator to meet with us. Before she came over to meet with us she called and asked me if I would be able to squeeze in a PET scan while I was there. I knew that I wouldn't have time with our return flight being at 5:30 so I called the airline to see how much they would charge to switch to a later flight. When they said, "No charge" I went ahead and changed our flights to 7:45. Later, after we had been talking with her for awhile we found out that I wouldn't be able to get the PET scan anyway because one of their machines was down...we changed our tickets for nothing. I also found out that they won't be able to use my port for my high dose chemo/SCT. They need something called a double lumen so I will have to have something temporary inserted for my stay there. So that means....I didn't need this port! The Gemzar/Navelbine could have just gone in an IV, it gave me another scar and it most likely caused my blood clot...and I didn't even need it... :( Oh well...it's already done.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Transplant is a Go!....AHHH!
Well, I got the call....the transplant is approved! My transplant coordinator gave me a tentative schedule which could change depending on how smoothly (or not) things go. So, here it is...for now anyway.
Thursday, April 12th- Husband and I fly to LA to sign paperwork and meet with transplant doctor.
Friday, April 13th- Have my normal chemo at the VA.
Saturday, April 14th-Tuesday, April 24th- Take Neupogen injections to increase white blood cells and stem cells.
Monday, April 23rd- Be in LA for blood test
Tuesday, April 24- possibly April 27- Stem cell harvesting (hopefully they will get as many as they need sooner, but said to plan to stay until Friday)
Wednesday, May 2nd- Admitted into the hospital to begin high dose chemo with transplant.
Wednesday, May 23rd- Hopefully released from the hospital but still have to stay in LA area
Wednesday, June 6th- Hopefully allowed to return home (Alexa turns 2 on the 7th. I hope I am home for her birthday.)
These are just estimates. Some of it depends on how well my body recovers. AHHH!!! It is almost here!!
Thursday, April 12th- Husband and I fly to LA to sign paperwork and meet with transplant doctor.
Friday, April 13th- Have my normal chemo at the VA.
Saturday, April 14th-Tuesday, April 24th- Take Neupogen injections to increase white blood cells and stem cells.
Monday, April 23rd- Be in LA for blood test
Tuesday, April 24- possibly April 27- Stem cell harvesting (hopefully they will get as many as they need sooner, but said to plan to stay until Friday)
Wednesday, May 2nd- Admitted into the hospital to begin high dose chemo with transplant.
Wednesday, May 23rd- Hopefully released from the hospital but still have to stay in LA area
Wednesday, June 6th- Hopefully allowed to return home (Alexa turns 2 on the 7th. I hope I am home for her birthday.)
These are just estimates. Some of it depends on how well my body recovers. AHHH!!! It is almost here!!
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Having Fun
Well I have had two chemos since my last entry...hopefully Friday will be my last of this chemo, but I'm still not sure....
I did something unusual for me on St. Patrick's Day...I went out...had a girls night. It was so fun! We ate at the Hard Rock and went to see the Jabawokeez. Then we even went down to Fremont Street for a little while...I think everyone there was wearing green.. I even saw a guy with a green tutu on his head. :) Now I just need to go on a date with my husband. :)
Last week I felt better than I have felt in a really long time. I felt like I had more energy and I was so happy I could breathe again after that bronchitis. The only "bad" thing that happened was I had a rash that started on my chest, then spread to my arms and legs. It wasn't a bad rash...just a little annoying. I let the doctor know about and look at it on Friday at chemo. He said it looked very mild and to continue using topical cream and take Benadryl if needed. It is actually one of the side effects of one of my chemos. I thought it was kind of weird to show up now but...
I have my dental exam scheduled for the 3rd, so hopefully after the transplant team and the insurance get that information the transplant can be approved. I am pretty sure that I will be getting another PET scan soon; probably after my next chemo. They will want to make sure that my cancer is still shrinking (hopefully gone) so that the high dose chemo and transplant can move forward.
I try not to think about it...but it makes me so anxious. I'm not sure why...I wish I had a little better understanding of how I will feel...my limitations etc. This is something that is hard to research because peoples' bodies respond differently.... I guess it is time to start writing those questions down again and asking my transplant coordinator and/or doctor. I hate that I will be away from my husband and little girls for that length of time but I'm not sure I would want them to see me that way either...I don't like being seen as sick or weak... And I get pretty grumpy when I don't feel good... I'm just going to miss them so much!!
I did something unusual for me on St. Patrick's Day...I went out...had a girls night. It was so fun! We ate at the Hard Rock and went to see the Jabawokeez. Then we even went down to Fremont Street for a little while...I think everyone there was wearing green.. I even saw a guy with a green tutu on his head. :) Now I just need to go on a date with my husband. :)
Last week I felt better than I have felt in a really long time. I felt like I had more energy and I was so happy I could breathe again after that bronchitis. The only "bad" thing that happened was I had a rash that started on my chest, then spread to my arms and legs. It wasn't a bad rash...just a little annoying. I let the doctor know about and look at it on Friday at chemo. He said it looked very mild and to continue using topical cream and take Benadryl if needed. It is actually one of the side effects of one of my chemos. I thought it was kind of weird to show up now but...
I have my dental exam scheduled for the 3rd, so hopefully after the transplant team and the insurance get that information the transplant can be approved. I am pretty sure that I will be getting another PET scan soon; probably after my next chemo. They will want to make sure that my cancer is still shrinking (hopefully gone) so that the high dose chemo and transplant can move forward.
I try not to think about it...but it makes me so anxious. I'm not sure why...I wish I had a little better understanding of how I will feel...my limitations etc. This is something that is hard to research because peoples' bodies respond differently.... I guess it is time to start writing those questions down again and asking my transplant coordinator and/or doctor. I hate that I will be away from my husband and little girls for that length of time but I'm not sure I would want them to see me that way either...I don't like being seen as sick or weak... And I get pretty grumpy when I don't feel good... I'm just going to miss them so much!!
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Thrombosis??
People should probably not be allowed to google their symptoms when they are feeling nervous about them. Since Friday afternoon I have had pain in my left shoulder and my port has felt very sensitive. Yesterday I discovered that I have a low grade fever, which I still have. And today my hands and arms just don't feel quite right...they feel weak...tingly maybe...kind of hard to explain. So, I googled my symptoms and it brought up thrombosis, which is a blood clot restricting the flow of blood. Apparently they are common in people with ports... I put in a call to the doctor and hopefully they will get back to me soon...I am really trying not to overreact.
Monday, February 27, 2012
3rd Cycle Done!
I haven't written in a while...I guess everything kind of becomes a routine and I don't want to bore the people who actually read this. :) I go to chemo and come home.
Friday was the last chemo of my third cycle. I have this Friday off and on Monday, the 5th, I am off to LA again. I will be doing pulmonary testing along with another echo cardiogram, an EKG, a chest x-ray, and a lot of labs. My coordinator said they would take about 8 tubes for different blood testing that they will do. I hope I don't pass out. :) This should take care of all my pre-testing. The only other thing that I need to do is get an oral exam from a dentist to ensure that my mouth is healthy. After I pass all these tests I will get approved for the stem cell transplant.
The closer I get to the transplant, the more anxious I become. I just want to hurry up and get it over with. I hope that my body is strong and does well with the chemo and transplant. I hope that I don't have to stay in UCLA for any longer than I have to. I need to start thinking of how I am going to handle things when I get home. I know my Mom is going to stay with me for a while but she can't stay forever...and my husband is most likely going to deploy in June. I am going to need help with cleaning and get someone to come clean out the cat box for sure. I am hoping that I won't need any more help than that but I don't know yet.
On another note, my oncologist said that it is OK for me to get a massage so I am getting one on Friday. I can hardly wait. I really need it. Something is wrong with my left shoulder...maybe a pinched nerve or maybe just a really bad crick in the neck. It is kind of irritating my port tubing and freaking me out a little bit.
Friday was the last chemo of my third cycle. I have this Friday off and on Monday, the 5th, I am off to LA again. I will be doing pulmonary testing along with another echo cardiogram, an EKG, a chest x-ray, and a lot of labs. My coordinator said they would take about 8 tubes for different blood testing that they will do. I hope I don't pass out. :) This should take care of all my pre-testing. The only other thing that I need to do is get an oral exam from a dentist to ensure that my mouth is healthy. After I pass all these tests I will get approved for the stem cell transplant.
The closer I get to the transplant, the more anxious I become. I just want to hurry up and get it over with. I hope that my body is strong and does well with the chemo and transplant. I hope that I don't have to stay in UCLA for any longer than I have to. I need to start thinking of how I am going to handle things when I get home. I know my Mom is going to stay with me for a while but she can't stay forever...and my husband is most likely going to deploy in June. I am going to need help with cleaning and get someone to come clean out the cat box for sure. I am hoping that I won't need any more help than that but I don't know yet.
On another note, my oncologist said that it is OK for me to get a massage so I am getting one on Friday. I can hardly wait. I really need it. Something is wrong with my left shoulder...maybe a pinched nerve or maybe just a really bad crick in the neck. It is kind of irritating my port tubing and freaking me out a little bit.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Stress
Today I had an appointment to get my very first massage...a sweet Valentine's gift from my husband. I let them know that I was going through chemo and the massage therapist called to see if she could give me a massage...turns out she will need permission from my oncologist. I was so bummed out...I had been looking forward to it and definately need it...my shoulders are so tense.
Being unable to get a massage for some reason brought on a small "Poor me pitty Party". I had a little cry...luckily not in front of the therapist...then I got mad at myself for crying. I told myself, "Stop being a crybaby...it's not even a big deal." I think I may be even more stressed out than I thought.
Being unable to get a massage for some reason brought on a small "Poor me pitty Party". I had a little cry...luckily not in front of the therapist...then I got mad at myself for crying. I told myself, "Stop being a crybaby...it's not even a big deal." I think I may be even more stressed out than I thought.
Friday, February 10, 2012
PET scan update
I went to see my oncologist on Wednesday and he was able to tell me the results, or atleast approximations, of my most recent PET scan. He said that the smallest spot was no longer there and that the other two, the ones near my lung and heart had shrunk about 30-40%. I was glad to hear this because I knew that if there hadn't been progress then they would want to switch my chemo drugs and I rather like the ones that I am on now....as much as you can "like" your chemo. The infusion of chemo is quick compared to how long it was the first time with the ABVD. And my body handles it well, with very few side effects.
Today I started my 3rd cycle of chemo. I'm still not sure, but I think I will end up completing 4 cycles.
I now have two transplant coodinators...one from UCLA and one from my insurance. I received my packet of information from UCLA yesterday. I haven't read it word for word...just skimmed, but one thing that I read stuck out. This is from a copy of the autologous transplant consent form:
Because of the risks associated the the procedure, the chance of six-month
survival may be greater without stem cell transplantation. However, it is hoped that
the chances for long-term survival will be greater with stem cell transplantation.
I sure hope the long-term is the part that applies to me. I stumbled on a support group online talking about their experiences with stem cell transplant...and they seemed positive...like it was a cure.
Today I started my 3rd cycle of chemo. I'm still not sure, but I think I will end up completing 4 cycles.
I now have two transplant coodinators...one from UCLA and one from my insurance. I received my packet of information from UCLA yesterday. I haven't read it word for word...just skimmed, but one thing that I read stuck out. This is from a copy of the autologous transplant consent form:
Because of the risks associated the the procedure, the chance of six-month
survival may be greater without stem cell transplantation. However, it is hoped that
the chances for long-term survival will be greater with stem cell transplantation.
I sure hope the long-term is the part that applies to me. I stumbled on a support group online talking about their experiences with stem cell transplant...and they seemed positive...like it was a cure.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
LA Trip 1
Yesterday morning I flew to LA. I had never been to LA....so, I was a little nervous. I wasn't sure what to expect. I think I was afraid that I would get mugged or something... I was able to find my way pretty good...and I took a shuttle and a taxi...first time in a taxi.
I got a PET scan and will hopefully hear the results from that pretty soon. Hopefully it will show that the chemo is working. If this chemo isn't doing its job, they will want to try something else... They would like to see the disease shrink as small as possible before the high dose chemo...the smaller the better my chances to remain cancer free.
I will have to return to LA for my stem cells to be harvested...still not sure when exactly but the doctor said it will be when my blood counts have recovered after chemo. My bone marrow will have to be checked again before the harvesting to make sure that the cancer hasn't moved into my marrow. As long as my marrow is clean, the stem cells will be harvested from my blood. This process may be able to be done in one day, but will probably take a day or two. They will take out blood, spin it to remove the stem cells and give me back the rest of my blood. After this...I will be able to do the high dose chemo at any time.
The high dose chemo will be about a week of different chemos given, rest one day, and then injecting the stem cells on the next day. She said my body will be fighting and I will probably be in the hospital for a few weeks...and I will be getting blood. I will lose my hair and my fertility. boo! :( I will be on a diet of all cooked foods. After my blood counts are high enough, and probably pretty stable, they will release me from the hospital, but I will have to remain in the area, with someone looking after me, for another week or two.
Not really looking forward to being away from my family for that long...but I want to have this cancer gone for good and that is my best chance....
I got a PET scan and will hopefully hear the results from that pretty soon. Hopefully it will show that the chemo is working. If this chemo isn't doing its job, they will want to try something else... They would like to see the disease shrink as small as possible before the high dose chemo...the smaller the better my chances to remain cancer free.
I will have to return to LA for my stem cells to be harvested...still not sure when exactly but the doctor said it will be when my blood counts have recovered after chemo. My bone marrow will have to be checked again before the harvesting to make sure that the cancer hasn't moved into my marrow. As long as my marrow is clean, the stem cells will be harvested from my blood. This process may be able to be done in one day, but will probably take a day or two. They will take out blood, spin it to remove the stem cells and give me back the rest of my blood. After this...I will be able to do the high dose chemo at any time.
The high dose chemo will be about a week of different chemos given, rest one day, and then injecting the stem cells on the next day. She said my body will be fighting and I will probably be in the hospital for a few weeks...and I will be getting blood. I will lose my hair and my fertility. boo! :( I will be on a diet of all cooked foods. After my blood counts are high enough, and probably pretty stable, they will release me from the hospital, but I will have to remain in the area, with someone looking after me, for another week or two.
Not really looking forward to being away from my family for that long...but I want to have this cancer gone for good and that is my best chance....
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Cycle Two, Almost Through
Tomorrow will be my last chemo of my second cycle. It will be nice to have a week off...then on to cycle 3. I think...
Yesterday I actually gave myself my Neupogen shot...and I didn't pass out. :) I was sitting down just in case...ha ha...I'm such a wieny!
I finally have all the details of my appointment and travel plans for Monday's trip to UCLA. I went ahead and bought the plane tickets yesterday because I didn't want the cost to go up anymore than it already had. It went from $34 one-way to $60 while I was waiting for some answers. I got an early flight because I thought they would schedule the PET scan in the morning but.... Today I finally got a call and they scheduled the scan for 1:45 and told me to go to the appointment with the doctor as soon as I am through with the scan. My doctor's appointment was originally scheduled for 2pm and now I probably won't be at the office until about 4pm. Hopefully my flight out is late enough...it should be...I hope.
I am planning or hoping that this doctor will answer my questions...I need to start writing them down....
How and when will the stem cells be harvested?
What chemos will be involved in the high dose chemo?
How long will I have to be in the hospital?
Will I really lose my hair with the high-dose chemo?
Will the h-d chemo really make me infertile?
What are the additional risks/side effects that come with this treatment?
I'm sure I'll think of at least a few more to add to the list...
Yesterday I actually gave myself my Neupogen shot...and I didn't pass out. :) I was sitting down just in case...ha ha...I'm such a wieny!
I finally have all the details of my appointment and travel plans for Monday's trip to UCLA. I went ahead and bought the plane tickets yesterday because I didn't want the cost to go up anymore than it already had. It went from $34 one-way to $60 while I was waiting for some answers. I got an early flight because I thought they would schedule the PET scan in the morning but.... Today I finally got a call and they scheduled the scan for 1:45 and told me to go to the appointment with the doctor as soon as I am through with the scan. My doctor's appointment was originally scheduled for 2pm and now I probably won't be at the office until about 4pm. Hopefully my flight out is late enough...it should be...I hope.
I am planning or hoping that this doctor will answer my questions...I need to start writing them down....
How and when will the stem cells be harvested?
What chemos will be involved in the high dose chemo?
How long will I have to be in the hospital?
Will I really lose my hair with the high-dose chemo?
Will the h-d chemo really make me infertile?
What are the additional risks/side effects that come with this treatment?
I'm sure I'll think of at least a few more to add to the list...
Sunday, January 22, 2012
5 down...??? to go
It is kind of strange to be going through treatment and still not really know how much longer I have with this chemo or when I will start the high dose chemo. Hopefully most of these questions will be answered when I see the UCLA doctor on the 30th. Now I not only have an appointment to meet the doctor, but they also want me to have a PET scan there the same day. I was trying to make travel plans, but since I don't have a time for the scan yet I haven't been able to do that. Hopefully I will know tomorrow so that I can get my plane tickets. I decided that it would be easier for me to fly to LA on my own than trying to drive by myself or trying to take the whole family, I think it will be easier and faster to just fly alone.
Today is my least favorite day in my week of chemo treatment....I usually feel fine, great even, the day of chemo and fine the next day. But today...it is the day when I feel the most...yuck! I don't even really know how to explain it...nauseous, tired, just...not good. I know this is still much better than what other people going through chemo experience...And my hair seems to have started to thin just a bit...just feeling some loose hairs on me. I wish I had the bald Barbie...If you haven't already joined the movement on Facebook or signed the petition to Mattel, look into it. I think the bald Barbie could do a lot of good.
Today is my least favorite day in my week of chemo treatment....I usually feel fine, great even, the day of chemo and fine the next day. But today...it is the day when I feel the most...yuck! I don't even really know how to explain it...nauseous, tired, just...not good. I know this is still much better than what other people going through chemo experience...And my hair seems to have started to thin just a bit...just feeling some loose hairs on me. I wish I had the bald Barbie...If you haven't already joined the movement on Facebook or signed the petition to Mattel, look into it. I think the bald Barbie could do a lot of good.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Second Round, Second Cycle---Take two
I drove to have my chemo on Thursday and to my surprise found that my treatment day had been moved to Friday...so now I will be getting chemo on Fridays. I didn't so much mind that the day had been changed...I just wish I would have known about it before making the almost hour round trip to the VA clinic and back home. Oh, well....
So, I went back on Friday, had my labs drawn, talked with my oncologist and had my chemo. My labs all looked really good. The doctor asked about side effects...if I was noticing any hair loss, etc. I told him that I hadn't noticed any hair loss, which I didn't really expect too since I didn't lose my hair with the ABVD treatment from the first time. The only side effect continues to be the numbness in my fingers and toes...more so my fingers. I asked if the second part of my treatment, the high dose chemo, will cause me to lose my hair, which he said he thought it would...not permanently of course...but...boo!! I still have a wig that my brother and sister-in-law bought for my the first time I had cancer. I am thinking about getting my hair cut the same style as the wig early, so maybe it won't be as big of a shock for the girls. I asked again about how long I would have to be at UCLA for the treatment...he said 2-4 weeks depending on whether or not there are any complications like infection. I can't imagine being away from my family that long. I have never been away from my girls for more than a few hours....what am I going to do? What are they going to do?
I have an appointment scheduled to meet with the UCLA doctor on the 30th of this month. Hopefully she will be able to give me more in-depth information and expectations for treatment and recovery...I just want to be through with this.....and never have to hear "You have cancer" again....
So, I went back on Friday, had my labs drawn, talked with my oncologist and had my chemo. My labs all looked really good. The doctor asked about side effects...if I was noticing any hair loss, etc. I told him that I hadn't noticed any hair loss, which I didn't really expect too since I didn't lose my hair with the ABVD treatment from the first time. The only side effect continues to be the numbness in my fingers and toes...more so my fingers. I asked if the second part of my treatment, the high dose chemo, will cause me to lose my hair, which he said he thought it would...not permanently of course...but...boo!! I still have a wig that my brother and sister-in-law bought for my the first time I had cancer. I am thinking about getting my hair cut the same style as the wig early, so maybe it won't be as big of a shock for the girls. I asked again about how long I would have to be at UCLA for the treatment...he said 2-4 weeks depending on whether or not there are any complications like infection. I can't imagine being away from my family that long. I have never been away from my girls for more than a few hours....what am I going to do? What are they going to do?
I have an appointment scheduled to meet with the UCLA doctor on the 30th of this month. Hopefully she will be able to give me more in-depth information and expectations for treatment and recovery...I just want to be through with this.....and never have to hear "You have cancer" again....
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
I did end up having some minor complications from my low potassium level. My right arm felt like it was asleep and weak until I got some potassium in me...scary stuff.
My third chemo went well and I was done early. We ended up leaving to drive back home for a visit after my treatment. It is a 12 hour drive that we split into two days so that it won't be as hard on the girls. Our first night there the youngest started throwing up and within the next day or two, we all threw up and had the stomach bug. This might sound horrible, but for a little while I was more worried about me getting sick than about my daughter throwing up. I just didn't know what the result of me getting sick with my lowered blood levels would be. Luckily, I got over it quickly. Well we all did, except for my youngest daughter. She threw up a few more times throughout the week, so we took her to the clinic and they prescribed an antibiotic. Now we are home and happy to be...it's always nice to get home.
Tomorrow I will begin my second cycle of chemo...
My third chemo went well and I was done early. We ended up leaving to drive back home for a visit after my treatment. It is a 12 hour drive that we split into two days so that it won't be as hard on the girls. Our first night there the youngest started throwing up and within the next day or two, we all threw up and had the stomach bug. This might sound horrible, but for a little while I was more worried about me getting sick than about my daughter throwing up. I just didn't know what the result of me getting sick with my lowered blood levels would be. Luckily, I got over it quickly. Well we all did, except for my youngest daughter. She threw up a few more times throughout the week, so we took her to the clinic and they prescribed an antibiotic. Now we are home and happy to be...it's always nice to get home.
Tomorrow I will begin my second cycle of chemo...
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Chemo Number Two
I had my second chemo today and it still went really well. I took some yummy brownies for the patients; who are mostly vets; and the nurses. :) I wanted to do something nice since it is so close to Christmas. I got to finish watching the movie I had started at the end of my chemo last week and got a little reading in.
My labs today showed that I had a low potassium level, so the nurse gave me some information on foods that are high in potassium. When I had been home for a while, the doctor called and let me know that he put in a prescription for a potassium supplement. I didn't pick it up yet because I snuck in a nap, and I am not sure that they pharmacy will be open tomorrow, but hopefully it will be. I guess if not I will be eating a papaya a day until I get my supplements. lol. I am not sure that I have ever had papaya but it has the highest amount of potassium per fruit, and it sure sounds a lot better than a banana. (I don't like bananas...I know I'm weird.) I still have the slight numbness in my fingers and toes, which the nurse said I would need to watch...I guess I just need to make sure that it doesn't get any worse.
In case I don't write again before Christmas.....Merry Christmas!!!! And remember that Jesus is the reason for the season. I am reminding myself too, as it is always easy to get caught up in the presents, decorations, etc.
My labs today showed that I had a low potassium level, so the nurse gave me some information on foods that are high in potassium. When I had been home for a while, the doctor called and let me know that he put in a prescription for a potassium supplement. I didn't pick it up yet because I snuck in a nap, and I am not sure that they pharmacy will be open tomorrow, but hopefully it will be. I guess if not I will be eating a papaya a day until I get my supplements. lol. I am not sure that I have ever had papaya but it has the highest amount of potassium per fruit, and it sure sounds a lot better than a banana. (I don't like bananas...I know I'm weird.) I still have the slight numbness in my fingers and toes, which the nurse said I would need to watch...I guess I just need to make sure that it doesn't get any worse.
In case I don't write again before Christmas.....Merry Christmas!!!! And remember that Jesus is the reason for the season. I am reminding myself too, as it is always easy to get caught up in the presents, decorations, etc.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Side Effects/Shots
The main side effect that I've had from the chemo is numbness in my finger and toes. It happened almost immediately and has been constant. It is isn't horrible, and I would much rather have that than nausea. So far I haven't had much nausea. There were a few times when I thought I be getting a little nauseous, but I just took some of my anti-nausea medicine and was fine.
Three days after my chemo I am supposed to take a shot of Neupogen, which is a drug to stimulate growth of white blood cells. I am supposed to take it three days in a row, at about the same time each day. Yesterday was my first shot. I knew that I would not be able to do it to myself very well. I figured I would pass out while trying to put the needle in my skin. That is just the way I am. I get so freaked out with needles and blood. :) Luckily, my husband agreed to give it to me. I think he was a little nervous, but he did it and he kept asking me how I was afterwards. He was really sweet. The main side effect of the Neupogen is bone pain, which they told me to take Aleve and Claritan for. I did go ahead and take an Aleve, and everything was fine. One shot down, two to go....
I want to do some baking before Thursday, my next chemo, so that I can take some goodies with me to the VA cancer patients and nurses. I was thinking Christmas cookies and brownies...sounds good to me. I hope I get it done.
Three days after my chemo I am supposed to take a shot of Neupogen, which is a drug to stimulate growth of white blood cells. I am supposed to take it three days in a row, at about the same time each day. Yesterday was my first shot. I knew that I would not be able to do it to myself very well. I figured I would pass out while trying to put the needle in my skin. That is just the way I am. I get so freaked out with needles and blood. :) Luckily, my husband agreed to give it to me. I think he was a little nervous, but he did it and he kept asking me how I was afterwards. He was really sweet. The main side effect of the Neupogen is bone pain, which they told me to take Aleve and Claritan for. I did go ahead and take an Aleve, and everything was fine. One shot down, two to go....
I want to do some baking before Thursday, my next chemo, so that I can take some goodies with me to the VA cancer patients and nurses. I was thinking Christmas cookies and brownies...sounds good to me. I hope I get it done.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
First Chemo
Today was my first chemo and it went really well. We started later than I thought we would because they went over my treatment and then had to wait for the lab to mix and deliver my chemo drugs. Also, when the nurse attempted to access my port there was not a blood return, so she had to put something in there to open it up. When I finally received my treatment, it went really fast. I don't think it took two hours at all. I did take a book with me to have something to do, but the nurse put the movie Zookeeper on, so I watched that while I was there.
When I got home I had to eat quickly and then go to my post-op appointment for my port, which was really quick. He just looked at it and said it looked good. I told him he did a beautiful job on my stitches, and he said, "I know." lol. He really did do a fantastic job though. :) Then I ran to the post office to get stamps to mail Christmas cards. Finally, I made it back home to relax. I haven't been nauseous though. I feel really good so far... hope it stays this easy.
When I got home I had to eat quickly and then go to my post-op appointment for my port, which was really quick. He just looked at it and said it looked good. I told him he did a beautiful job on my stitches, and he said, "I know." lol. He really did do a fantastic job though. :) Then I ran to the post office to get stamps to mail Christmas cards. Finally, I made it back home to relax. I haven't been nauseous though. I feel really good so far... hope it stays this easy.
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