Chemo #7 - One More to Go

Mentally and emotionally - this was the most challenging treatment so far. 

It was hard to wrap my mind around going in and having the treatment again.  Recognizing the work it takes to 'dig myself out' of the physical impact and to rebuild strength. 

Alan went with me so that we could spend our Valentine's Day together and it was nice to spend the day with him.  The night before, he brought me roses so that I could have something to look at this weekend.  We celebrated our 25 year engagement anniversary on February 7th with a romantic dinner out.  Unfortunately - I was not feeling very well but we still had a good time.

The treatment itself was non-eventful.  Dr. Legant went over my numbers with us and I'm happy to report my liver enzymes are 'back to normal'.  My glucose numbers are up but that likely has more to do with the chocolate kisses I ate the night before.  Alan and I played Yahtzee and chatted.  The treatment lasted from 0900 until about 2:30pm. 

Recovery has been consistent with the other Taxol treatments.  Friday - fatigue and nausea.  Saturday - Monday - pain.  Tues - Thurs - GI issues.  We've gotten very good at managing the various drugs - knowing when to stop the anti-nausea pills and start the pain killers.  Alan has his schedule and sets everything up for me.  He even sets the alarm and wakes me up to 'stay ahead' of things.  The neuropathy of my hands, feet and mouth continue and food/drink taste different - less appetizing but I'm still able to eat.  :)

We set up our appointment with Dr. Gaffney - the Radiation Doctor for March 12th.  We wanted to continue treatment and not take a break between chemotherapy and radiation. Basically - looking forward to getting this all behind us.   Radiation will last for 6 weeks - and will take place every Monday - Friday.  Reading the side effects - this should be much easier to manage through than the chemo. 

The good news - we only have one more treatment left.  One more time.  I'm looking forward to having this milestone completed.  It may well be the hardest thing I've ever done.  The hardest thing we've ever done as a couple and a family.  Almost there.