Rosie's Cancer Journey

I had my 3rd of 6 infusions on Monday. I am supposed to expect that the effects of this round will be more like round 2, which means I will start to feel lethargic this Thursday through Sunday, then I might have flu-like symptoms for a couple of days, and start to feel better after that, maybe in time for Christmas. I got hives again after my last post, but it was manageable. My white blood count has dropped, but I’m still in the expected range, although immunocompromised, so I need to avoid anyone that is sick. And the reason I’m up again so early today? Steroids. Ugh! I even took Benadryl which at least helped me sleep for 5 hours. The steroids won that battle! These are a some of the things I just have to work through to keep fighting cancer.

The holidays this year are difficult due to sickness, grief deaths of close loved ones and loss, and also empty nesting with 3 of our 4 kids no longer living at home or nearby anymore. Traveling to visit family is not an option at this point. But we have plans after Christmas to attend and host a couple of celebrations, which is great because by then I should be feeling better. And thank goodness for technology so we can keep in touch with those we can’t be with physically, and we can still talk to loved ones in spirit. Some days, or even moments, will be hard, and some not so hard. All we can do is find ways to cope through it.

Another side effect of chemo that I have managed to avoid so far is neuropathy. During my chemo infusion, I suck on ice chips to help with mouth sores, and put ice mitts on my hands and feet. It is freezing! But worth it as it seems to be helping. Here is a funny picture that Jeff took of me during that process on Monday.