Well, I had my fifth round of chemo this past week, and it really took me down more than a few notches in terms of fatigue. For the first time in a long time, getting up in the morning, and working through the day, was a challenge. I tried to rationalize my way out of admitting that it was chemo related. Maybe I just didn't get enough sleep, I told myself. But when I went in to get my portable chemo pump disconnected, the nurse reminded me that the side effects are usually cumulative. They will likely get more pronounced as I progress through the regimen. It's not quite "the medicine is worse than the disease," but it is a hard to face up to the fact that it might become the new normal.
But all that aside, the treatments are still proving to be amazingly helpful.
Thank you all for the kind words and good wishes. I recently heard from some of my old friends from Providian days, and it really helped to read their words of support.
I'll just keep taking it one day at a time.
Hi Jim, Donna was kind to forward your blog. Chemo can be very very draining. I survived 6 rounds myself for breast cancer. Some of the things I find helpful: Watermelon for the sores inside my mouth. Veggie juice every day.
ReplyDeleteRecipe:
1/4 Cucumber
1/2 Green pepper
1 Green apple
1/4 Bitter melon
2 stalks of celery
Can add carrots or pineapple to sweeten.
I did the veggie juice faithfully for 5+ years. Still do it occasionally.
I was not very good at meditation. But did acupuncture and massages during treatment. I found both to be very helpful.
My best wishes and prayers.
Ruby (McCarty, in case you do not remember)
Hi Ruby,
DeleteThank you for your kind words, and your recommendations for juice. I really appreciate it. And I'll give it a try ;)
I'm glad you came through your bout with cancer. You're right about chemo -- definitely draining.
Thanks again for reaching out!
Jim
Hi Jim, I sent you a funny ha ha via WhatsApp. Hit everything crossed for scan results xxx
ReplyDelete