Round 10 is officially in the books, and we’re inching closer to the end of this treatment cycle. The day itself was fairly routine, except for one incredibly inspiring moment. My nurse for the day? She’s also going through chemotherapy for breast cancer. Can you believe that?
I didn’t ask too many personal questions, but I was blown away by her positivity and strength while still working full-time. She shared that she just finished her AC (Adriamycin and Cytoxan) cycle and is about to start Taxol and Carbo. When I asked if she lost her taste buds during AC, she said she hadn’t. Armed with that hopeful nugget of information, I’m clinging to the idea that my taste buds might make a comeback before my last treatment on January 23.
Melissa and I passed the time watching Where the Crawdads Sing. That ending? Total jaw-dropper. It was a solid movie and just the distraction I needed during treatment.
Fast Forward to Post-Treatment
The days following treatment have been a mixed bag. The fatigue hit hard, and Saturday turned into a marathon nap session. I’ve never been a napper, so it’s still wild to me how the couch transforms into this irresistible sleep magnet. Once it grabs me, I’m done for.
Bone pain has also been making its usual appearance. It’s mostly concentrated where my thigh bone meets my hip bone. Occasionally, I feel it in my chest, which is not exactly comforting given my ongoing suspicion about the chemo port. Let’s just say having a tube running into your jugular vein and sitting near your heart is a constant source of “fun” paranoia.
Neuropathy, my uninvited guest, is settling in more prominently. The numbness in my fingers is making everyday tasks like picking up pills or typing an ordeal. This blog entry? Took me days to finish because every keystroke feels like an argument with my fingers. My hands are officially staging a protest, and I am not amused.
The Stomach and Food Chronicles
Stomach-wise, I’ve managed to avoid any major disasters by staying ahead with Imodium. A couple of “previews” were enough for me to shut that down quickly.
As for food, it’s still an ongoing battle. I have no desire to eat because everything tastes awful. My daughter even brought me my favorite gummy bears, hoping they’d spark some joy. Sadly, even those failed me. The betrayal! My weight is holding steady, but I know I’m not getting enough calories or protein. Still, forcing myself to eat feels like a chore when food tastes like cardboard dipped in disappointment.
Monday: New Money, Same Old Thigh Pain
I woke up Monday morning feeling like new money, ready to tackle the day. I even got dressed for the office, thinking I’d be able to join my coworkers and maybe sneak into some workplace games. But my thigh pain had other plans, leaving me unsteady and feeling like I might fall. I decided to stay home—better safe than sorry.
Thanksgiving Week and Round 11
This week is special for a couple of reasons: it’s Thanksgiving, and my treatment is on Wednesday instead of Thursday. That will be Round 11 of 12 for this cycle. The end of this chapter is in sight, and I’m feeling optimistic about what’s to come.
I’m holding onto hope, humor, and the love of those around me as I navigate this journey. Here’s to one more round closer to the finish line!
