I am not really sure why I have taken so long to update this blog.
Well, I can say that I am so glad that the chemo is done. They told me the second half would be way easier than the 1st half. It didn't happen that way for me, but now it's done. There are still doctor's visits, other medications - some by IV- and a few outpatient surgeries. I will also be getting body scans to keep an eye out for any baddies that want to make a comeback.
It has been decided that I will NOT be having radiation treatment. This is good news to me. It took a while to get all the information, but it seems that it would do me more harm than good in the long run.
I have been back at work this week and by the end of the day I am pretty tired. The accumulated effects of the chemo took more out of me than I expected. I still have some of the bone aches, especially at night.
On a much more fun note, Rachel is off on her adventure to Machu Pichu and also the Amazon.
Kate is winding up her summer adventure in Washington D.C., and we heard from Danny this weekend (he's doing good, thanks for your prayers). Dan's sister Jean and her husband and two of their sons have been in AZ for a few days. It is a tough time to visit AZ (otherwise known as the nation's convection oven). Tonight we had chinese food at The Great Wall, and then dessert back here at the house. Zeke, our 80 lb. black lab, was so thrilled to have so many in the house and he even got some whipped cream on his nose. It is funny to see yourself become the crazy old aunt. In my case the bald, crazy old aunt. They asked how I would like my hair to grow back in, you know because so many people have it come in different than it was before it fell out - My answer? "Not gross." I mean, what if it comes back only in some spots and not in others? What if I am bald in patches?
I would consider having a luau to celebrate the end of chemo, but unless we drain the pool, we don't have a good place to roast a pig or two, so I will just have to come up with another idea. Maybe a clambake on a beach somewhere? I'll have to think about this. Just know that I am so glad for your support, constant love, and the many prayers said for me.
Love ya,
Carmine
Hoping along with you for wonderful hair! So glad you are done. Thank you for writing a blog to share your journey; I've been inspired.
ReplyDeleteLezlie Shortsleeve
So glad to hear your Chemo is over - I know how happy Erika & Crystal were when they got through with theirs. I loved the hair they both got afterward, hope yours comes in as fun as theirs did. Both had a different color and very curly - looked especially cute when short.
ReplyDeleteYou should slowly get your energy back and with that the ability to do more reading. A couple of books I can recommend are 'Booked to Die' and 'The Bookman's Wake', both by John Dunning. Good writing and a fascinating glimpse into the world of rare book collecting.
Come see us in Germany when you get the strength - in the meantime remember the "Little House" in Sedona is yours for the asking.
You continue to have our love and prayers
Eric & Nancie