The Chemotherapy Has Begun

This photo is my simplistic view on a cancer diagnosis . And the weirdness of all that must be done to make it go away!!!

Day 1 of chemotherapy was on Monday, March 27th and my biggest fear was some sort of immediate allergic reaction with vomiting and distress. None of those things happened! 

The details: we are pursuing treatment at the Roswell Cancer center. I am getting two types of chemo for the first four rounds and then switching it up halfway through. They give you ALL the anti-nausea drugs a half hour befor it starts. The first drug, is pushed through for the first ten minutes. It is bright red and immediately caused my urine to turn red and can do the same to your eyes. Gregory had packed a cooler with items we read about online - popsicles, italian ice and cold drinks. I inhaled two popsicles during the doxorubicin push in attempt to "save" my mouth from sores and irritation. (So far, no mouth issues - but they can develop anytime in the seven days after treatment.) 

The last half hour of chemo was the Cytoxin (gotta love the toxin right in the name!) and uneventful. To give an idea of how long the entire process takes - medicine took up to a little over an hour to administer but we were at the hospital for about five. And it was CROWDED. If that gives me any perspective, it's that there are so many other people going through the same process. 

Now here is the question: How am I doing? 

I have several anti-nausea medications. One for the morning, which contains steriods... which kind of make you move whether you want to or not! Another for night, which has knocked me out both times I've taken it. And two others that can be taken as needed. I also went for my first acupuncture session yesterday which was weird but wonderful. This is from another provider because the cancer center was booked a month out for their one (!!) acupuncurist. She basically stuck little needles in my ears, stomach, hands and lower legs, shut off the light and told me to nap for 30 minutes. :) I have one small needle in my ear that remains for a few days to help alleviate nausea. Even if the "belief" that it works is all in my mind - then that's great too. So far, I feel like I have morning sickness that comes and goes. I've been able to eat and drink. 

My sister came up to help watch Finian and deliver several tasty meals. Gregory continues to manage our chaos. It's funny and scary how fast life continues to move - even in the midst of a dramatic illness - Monday night kids had dance class and Jackson his induction into the Art Academy at high school. Tuesday Elliot had a big choral concert and I felt just fine attending. Although for the first time since Covid, I was starting to look around at the crowd of people as if they all had germs they were trying to share with me. 

Two amazing meals were delivered for the meal train and I am looking forward to some Doordash action tonight. AND... Ayla has her drivers' license! (Which might be more anxiety inducing than chemo, seriously.) But HOORAY! 

I appreciate all of the texts and check ins. With all the emotions this brings up, I mostly feel love and appreciation. And tired. :)