Reasonably smooth sailing

Thought I'd do a quick update as its been a week or so since last blog.

Happy to hear that people aren't thinking it too boring and self absorbing.  One of the things about chemo is that it takes away my brain's theasauras.  So, I'm not writing at my usual fantastic level at the moment.  The amount of times I'm trying to think of a particular word and can't come up with it. Very frustrating.

SECOND CHEMO

Now on day 6 from last chemo. Wasn't as nervous this time and although still not a pleasant experience, it all went smoothly. The oncologist was pleased with my reaction to the first dose. All my blood cells, kidneys etc recovered ok and the side effects were manageable. So all good. After the chemo, I always feel a bit 'invaded' because you know you've got all this crap running through your body and that it's highly toxic, however, it's also highly toxic to the bump, so I have to keep reminding myself of this..

I don't know how I'll feel with number 4 or 5 chemo because it's such a long process.  Hard to keep feeling positive!

Kris came with me which was nice. Nice to be a bit spoilt. Tried not to milk it too much but did get all meals etc handed to me (lovely). I was appreciative of it, and showed my appreciation by spilling a whole plate of tomato soup over the kitchen floor.  Bugger because it was yummy soup.

Kris had a first as well. She injected me the next day (in the belly). I thought that was terribly brave (for both of us) and she didn't hurt a bit. that injection is supposed to help red blood cells recover.

Also, we removed the rest of my hair and I got a number 0. My hair was coming out sporadically - bald around the sides where I sleep on it and still there on top. All I had to do was grab the hair in my hands and it was coming out. So thought it would be best gone. Less hair to vacuum. Feels quite strange (but clean) and I now really look like a cancer patient.

SURGEONS APPT

Also had a follow up appointment with the surgeon's side kick. The aim of this was to see how I'm responding to the chemo and how the lumps responding. Good news!! The doctor found it difficult to locate all of the tumor. The actual mass (width wise) hasn't shrunk, but the proportions have and it has softened considerably. She was very pleased with that. Considering it was only 3.5 weeks since chemo, it's a good sign. So basically, as my body is responding, they are going to continue with the chemo (for the six rounds) and then operate. Looks like it will be late July, early August.

So, whilst I was there, I had another ultrasound, and with an injection, they placed two titanium markers in the lump so that when they'd operate, they'll know what to remove. They are about the size of uncooked grain of rice. Apparently, I won't buzz if I go through airport which would be a bit embarrassing.  I won't go into details of the injection, but needless to say, watching a thin needle going into your breast (via ultrasound screen) was a bit yucky.  Didn't hurt though because I asked for a double dose of local. 

NOW

So, my sister kris flew out Friday which is a bit of a bummer. Was a bit morose and sorry for myself but also realistic that I can't have someone here all the time. Sonny has given me a couple of extra cuddles to make up for it and Pippa popped in and took me to get some DVDs and also had a cuppa. Slept 12 hours Friday night. And have slept for about 3 each day.  The weekend was in the midst of the tired period. Apart from that though, don't feel too bad. Actually quite surprised.  Having one more day at home, and planning to go out tomorrow.  Feel very housebound. 

Have appetite, although for smaller portions and only a little bit icky in the stomach. Have a bit of a headache, but only a constant hum. No sweats so far (fingers crossed) but today has been quiet cool. Last chemo 39' this chemo 22. Much more bearable.

NEXT WEEK

Got to find a project to do. Bummer not being able to garden, so i need to find something to occupy my time. Kris suggested scrapbooking, but I could think of nothing worse. So, need to get creative brain out (albeit clouded).  Am thinking of doing some wall art - you never know, might get my own exhibition (doubt it). 


GOOD NEWS
Just got a phone call from income protection insurance.  Claim has been approved and will get my first payment on 4th May.  So that makes me feel MUCH  better.  It was really easy and very pleased that I didn't have to go through rigmarol.

So, that's about it for now. 

A feeling pretty good (but bored) Kay xxxx