Chemo #4

   Thomas and I arrived at the Cancer Center at 9am. They drew blood and then we seen Dr. Olivarez. She was concerned with my fingers being numb and tingling all the time. She decided to decrease the drug--Vincristine. Using this drug over a period of time with the side effect could cause nerve damage in my hands and fingers. She was concerned with me being a florist that it would have a long term effect on me. She was also worried with the night sweats that I'm having. These are different from hormonal hot flashes. I'm going to keep track of what day and time I have them in my journal and let her know what days in the cycle I have them. Another side effect of Vincristine is hair loss. Combing my hair before going bed I placed quite a few hairs in my bag. Maybe this will slow it down too. Let's hope so. I've had to change my hair style somewhat trying to make it look fuller.
   I was anxious on the drive up, was worried how this treatment would effect me. Some have told me the more treatments you have the harder it is on your body. That was weighing heavy on my mind.
Thomas held my hand during the drive and that was a comfort to me. I knew he could sense my concerns. He knows me so well I don't have to tell him whats on my mind.
   My white blood count was down a few more points as was my platelet count. But not low enough to cancel the chemo. My weight was also down. We made our way out to the chemo room and I picked out my usual chair. I got settled in and being tired from not sleeping well the night before I dozed off and slept for an hour and half. I finally woke up and  Thomas had gotten me a light lunch. Sandra came in and checked on me and the nurse said she knew who's daughter she was as soon as she came through the door--she looks just like you. But we're told that all the time....:)
   We were finally done at 3:30 and we headed home. Linda and Sarah text me just as I got in the truck to make sure I was doing ok. We got home and Thomas tucked me in and I slept for a few more hours while he made us supper. I helped him clean up the kitchen and I laid back down. Lily laid right next to me. Animals can sense when their owner is not well or something is wrong. Thomas tried to get her to come into the living room with him but she wouldn't budge. She laid there most of the evening with me.
   So, I have four down and two to go. What a way to spend your summer. But as I've said so many times I'm thankful that I can still work and have the energy to work around the yard in my flowers. I even got my bicycle out and rode up to Daddy's last week. Daddy was clapping his hands as I drove up to his shop. The smile on his face was priceless to me......