It’s been one week

Sunday, February 12, 2023

It’s been a week since my chemo treatment and I’ve had some challenges. I’ve experienced just about every side effect the drugs can bring on. With the exception of nausea for which I’m thankful. Mind you I was on the anti-nausea drugs for three days.

Before I received the actual chemo treatment I had two different drugs through IVs that were to prevent an allergic reaction, as well as a huge dose of the steroids. The steroid I got in the first 15 minutes of treatment was equivalent to the three days of pills I took with the last round of chemo. It’s no wonder I was up for more than 24 hours. I managed to get some stitching done in the middle of the night so it wasn’t a complete waste I guess.

Bone aches were the first side effect I noticed. Aches from my hips down to my feet. I had a couple of uncomfortable days but Tylenol helped me get through it. My sore throat may actually have been caused by sores in my esophagus but I got a prescription for ‘Magic Mouthwash’ from the Cancer Agency and that has helped a lot. My toes and fingertips are numb thanks to the neuropathy side effect.

I still struggle to get a good night’s sleep and I have no appetite but both Pat and Kathryn keep me eating whether or not I’m hungry. My energy levels vary but for the most part I’m very low energy.

I have to say that my Oncology team have responded to each of my complaints with either a prescription or other helpful advice. I have two more weeks before my next treatment and then I expect I’ll start the whole thing all over again.

I don’t often get a good day but for the parts of the day that are good I’m making the most of those hours.