Chemo #2

Chemo is all about poison to kill poisoned cells

So, today was Chemo day #2. It began at 8 am with the drawing of blood samples. Then waiting.

At 9 am we meet with the Doctor and 'fellow' to go over the tests and the planned treatment. Tests were good! Liver is back to normal so today they could give the full blown dose of chemo. And, since I did so well in Chemo #1, we decided we should go ahead with the nasty R stuff at a faster drip rate. Remember the first treatment they take their time delivering the chemicals to make sure there are no reactions. That saves about 1.5 hours! The bad news today, was that since Chemo #1 was not a full dose, we need to do 7 maybe 8 cycles instead of the 6 which many folks get. The theory was why mess around - let's make sure the cure is for good. Nice theory.

More waiting

Around 11:30 we went in for the chemo (see picture above). Well the fast delivery-rate plan worked for about an hour. then my throat got irritated and scratchy and my abdomen started to hurt. So, fearing my throat may close up, the nurse quickly turned the IV off, gave me benidrill (which made my sleepy) and went back to the slower mode of injection. So, no short cuts for me today.

Anne was a trooper throughout. Working when I slept. She got the new drug supply from the pharmacist. She also brought along 3 surprises - a box a chocolates (yum), a flip book of an egg exploding (more fun to watch than you would think) and a little painting activity (see picture below) - you wet the brush and sketch with water, when it dries the drawing is gone and you reuse the sheet.

Around 4 pm all was done. I was a bit fatigued when we got home, so I took a nap while Anne made a wonderful eggplant dish. Otherwise I'm OK.

The 'Buddha Pad' Anne got me for passing the time. She also brought along flowers to pretty the place up