I went in for my treatment with my Dad today. The usual stuff; lab first for levels and all is good on that front. Then I met with Dr. Schauer. I had my Dad come in with me. Heart & lungs sound good and he still remarked about not being able to find any mass. Dr. Schauer said that I was handling the pretty intense treatments about as well as can be expected. He continues to be complimentary about my level of activity and encourages me to do as much as I reasonably can. I think he said I was doing excellent and I was glad to hear and glad that my Dad heard it right from the source.
After settling on my favorite recliner for treatment Donna hooked me up and we decided to try the lesser dose of Benadryl and see how I tolerated the Taxol. Not so good. I barely got started on the Taxol and I felt the effects. It was a strange tightening in my throat, flushed cheeks, and immediately went to muscle spasms in my lower back and then all the way up to my neck accompanied by major throbbing all over. As soon as I felt it starting I asked for Donna who came right in, disconnected the Taxol and pushed the other half of the Benadryl into the IV. Within a few minutes everything settled down but it was intense, uncomfortable and I don't want to do that again. Next time I am going to add some steroids to my pre-treatment regimen which should help and we're not going to mess around with less Benadryl.
I'm so OK now. Went to the market for a few things for dinner, typing (obviously), and feeling pretty good. At the market I was winding through the crowds (sort of swimming upstream) and this woman seemed to be aiming for me about 15 feet ahead. I was getting ready to be annoyed and scurry by her when she hooked my arm in hers. She said, "If it's any consolation, I am a survivor". And I softened up. I looked at this woman who I would have normally passed by in a hurry with a different lens. She was offering her support to me. We talked briefly and when I mentioned 2nd opinion she offered the name of her doctor written on the back of her shopping list. She was astounded that I had just left treatment and was out - for her she was leveled until the Wednesday after. That WOULD be awful, way more taxing mentally and physically. We shared a hug and wished each other well and good health.
There it is. I'm part of my first sorority.
2 comments:
Good morning Jenn --
First, you look beautiful. How do you do it, hmmmm?
Second, this post pertaining to what transpired at your treatment was discomfiting what with your reaction. You came through - AGAIN -- with flying colors.
And last, but not least, how touching that a sentient being reached for you as you were swimming upstream in more ways than one on that day of all days.
Was it the salmon aisle, perchance?
There are days when one reads the headlines and the violence, etc. when one cannot help but wonder, 'where is man's humanity to man?'
A thousand profuse "thank you's" for sharing this moment as a reminder that there are far more people who recognize and more importantly, act upon all that unites us rather than the minor quarrels that divides us.
You are nearing the finish line, Jennifer Webb. July 27th is the last one, correct?
You are some kind of wonderful.
I love you,
Cherie
PS -- very nice backdrop
Ahh, unexpected little blessings from the universe. Hot Damn!
xoS
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