Well, I've been on my cancer meds for two weeks. I had my first check up yesterday. I'm doing great as far as side effects. Didn't get any of the scary ones-- yet. But, sadly, I did get decreased appetite. On top of my already decreased appetite. which really sucks. I didn't even realize I was having a side effect until I called the doctor's office asking for help with food, and they put two and two together.
Sigh. I lost more weight, which is bad, but now that I know what I'm up against with food, I'm approaching it was food is fuel and I'm drinking a lot of my calories, since solid food is a tough sell for me. Drinking lots of Ensures (bleck...) and eating the same solid foods at the same time every day, just trying to get enough calories in to stem the weight loss.
These last few weeks have been tough, because I'm basically relearning how to live. I won't probably ever feel 'good' like my normal cancer-free self. So I'm learning to how to still get up and accomplish things and live some sort of basic functioning life while not feeling good. Boy. Learning to be chronically ill is not easy.
But, I'm not giving up. I can't.
Yesterday we got some early possible good signs. Although I won't know if the medicine is working on the tumor until the end of April ( I can't believe I have to wait that long.)... my bloodwork had improved this visit. Something approaching closer to normal levels. The doctor said it could be a fluke or it could be an early promising sign. He is cautious. I like this approach. He doesn't spread false hope.
So fingers crossed it's something good happening in me, and not a fluke.
In other news, my will and healthcare papers are signed and legal and finished.
And, my credit card number was stolen, and someone charged $2000 worth of hotel rooms. I didn't catch it for a week because I haven't been online as much. I called Saturday to cancel the card, and we're still waiting for replacement cards.
Learning to live as a different person
February 14th, 2018 at 10:52 pm
February 15th, 2018 at 12:02 am 1518652974
I hung up the phone and walked away from anyone who said anything unhelpful.
Remember you've a huge crew out here rooting for you every day!
February 15th, 2018 at 12:31 am 1518654686
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February 15th, 2018 at 02:05 am 1518660315
Justvwishingvall good things for you!
February 15th, 2018 at 02:54 am 1518663281
February 15th, 2018 at 03:18 am 1518664720
When a good family friend was going through chemo for advanced breast cancer, she was struggling with food, too. There was a book out there that had recipes for the new/lack of palette for those going through therapy. I can see if I can find the name of the book, if you are interested. There was a pea soup we made for her that she said was the first thing that tasted good in a long time.
Sending my prayers and best wishes and crossing fingers and toes for that miracle!
February 16th, 2018 at 02:46 am 1518749175
Can you do milk shakes? I saw someone mentioned smoothies. Hopefully you can find something more tasty than Ensure. Glad you have a positive spirit. Been thinking about you.
February 16th, 2018 at 12:50 pm 1518785449
February 16th, 2018 at 05:24 pm 1518801879
Wanted to let you know that was the one who sent the pics from the shrine in Chicago.
February 17th, 2018 at 07:02 pm 1518894131
Also, I thought you might like knowing I bought both of your books!
February 18th, 2018 at 01:46 pm 1518961606
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