Five Down, One More to Go

I can vaguely see a light at the end of the tunnel, five chemo sessions done and one more to go. It's almost over.

It's my chemo day. I woke up feeling somewhat good and ready for the big day. It was an early start for us, my bloodwork was scheduled at 8:15 this morning but didn't have it done until almost an hour after. The clinic was packed. Like a domino effect, meeting Dr. K and the chemo were delayed by an hour. My blood pressure, as expected, was higher than usual and I also gained weight (gulp!), thanks to the steroids. We saw Dr. K, he said all blood tests were ok and my white blood count excellent. Everything was all set for my chemo.

I asked about the results of the abdomen ultrasound and he said they were normal too except for the fatty liver. Dr. K said nothing to worry about it since it's part of getting old. Dr. K was quite surprised Dr. S requested an abdomen ultrasound when in fact high liver enzymes is one of the side effects of the Taxotere (chemo). So I had it done for nothing?!?!?! Well that's reassuring. :{

I also asked if there's a way to find out if the chemo is working or not since I'm close to the finish line. Well I got a blunt "no" from Dr. K, he said there is no way to find that out. Dr. K said we will discuss it further what happens next on my follow-up check-up after the last chemo. If he can discuss it then, why not tell me now?!?!?! Well his explanation was most patients forget if he tells them now and would rather do it when he sees me after the last chemo. What the heck? This confirms why I don't like Dr. K.

Then the chemo started. The nurse put the IV/needle, it hurt but I didn't cry. I told the nurse and Mark that after the traumatic overnight stay at the hospital where my left arm was treated like a pin cushion and bruises from needles, this morning's prick was nothing. The actual chemo was long, over two hours. No tears were shed but I did feel dizzy halfway through the treatment. I felt a bit nauseous on our way home. I think the metal taste is starting so I ate lunch as soon as we got home, before the taste gets worse.

So far I feel good after the chemo but like before who knows what will happen the next few days. Dr. K told me that is more likely that I will not develop a fever after cycle 5 but he can't guarantee it. Great. :-|

Only one more damn chemo to go and that is it. That will be on May 5th, another day which I will never forget in my life.