It's been a while since I felt well enough for a proper update. I've been trying to keep snip-its on social media, but my body has not been cooperating for much computer time.
This week is my LAST full week of radiation and my LAST chemo is scheduled for Wednesday! I am VERY excited to have this part of the process behind me. My last radiation is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov 13th! I can hardly wait to ring the bells of completion in both departments!
Currently I am experiencing boatloads of side effects and trying my best to manage them as well as possible.
Right at this moment, my day includes nausea, diarrhea, neuropathy - tingling, burning in my hands and pain throughout my arms, tinnitus- loud high pitch siren in my ears, pain, chemo brain/fog... really, my head is not my own right now. And the most tender belly that allows for only slow, calculated movements.
My hands hurt, and I have found it nearly impossible to write with a pen. If you have done something kind for me, please consider this your "thank you" note as my ability to send written notes seems to have been put on hold.
BUT I am nearing the end. I can see the light. I know that these next weeks will not be easy, but I will get thru them. Because my will for MORE, for everything, is so much greater than the pain or the ickiness.
I am eternally grateful for the friends and family that are serving as my drivers and companions. With my host of side effects, driving became too much about two weeks ago, and I have become a little old lady shut-in. If I do go out, I am wearing my mask and it is only for a brief visit.
I have learned to anticipate the good days and the bad days, typically Wednesday-Friday afternoon are my best days- the chemo drugs are fresh, which means the stronger anti-nausea and steroids have given me energy. Those are the days I feel like I can get things done. Once Friday evening hits, the meds start to dissipate and the nausea and ickiness take over. This weekend has been no exception.
I hate that the weekends are full of family time and also full of feeling my worst, but it has proven to be a blessing as it keeps me from being home alone. Hunter, Marilyn & Spencer are doing a tremendous job of taking care of me and doing all the little things that make me most comfortable.
Now I just need to make it to Wednesday to get my next boost of power drugs.
The Oncologists said it will take several weeks to months for the side effects to fade away, my energy to return and life to start feeling more normal... so it appears our goal is that 2019 will bring a return to our new normal. I am still recuperating from the surgery as well and am feeling the intensity and weight of this cancer fight.
While chemo and radiation together has been very tough, I am glad that I can knock them both out at once and pray that it achieves our goal or "cancer free- remission".
Keep the positive vibes coming and the well wishes, they mean so much to us. Our tribe has been incredibly supportive of not only me, but especially the kids- getting them home from school, keeping them included, able to attend functions without us and helping them feel loved. It means the world to me. THANK YOU!
Hugs,
Sarah
No comments:
Post a Comment