After a very long couple of weeks, I am pleased to say yesterday was finally a good day! Back at it just in time for chemo again today… This regime of chemo every two weeks is quite simply, hell.
Despite a very weird week, we did have a good check up with the oncologist on Wednesday. He is pleased with the progress and feels like there is a significant reduction in the tumour. You know, as a kid who always wanted to do well, this is the chemo equivalent of a gold star! It really is all about mind set, because in an instant, a lot of the anxiety I have felt about the barrage of weird symptoms and not feeling well, was lifted.
I would be lying if I didn’t share the thought of chemo today is a bit daunting. Although the team tell me, so far, the symptoms have been connected to other stuff- like stomach bugs and weird colds- I'm not convinced this one will be better. And, it’s not just the physical affect it has on me, it’s the toll taking care of things takes on everyone else.
You know when I said “we got this” it really is a WE… because on the days I can’t do things it doesn’t mean things don’t have to be done. Believe me when I say it also sucks to tell Izzy “I'm sorry mommy can’t…[insert a list of things]", or pray that you feel well enough to watch Miah play basketball in her first tournament. But hey ho, this too shall pass.
As always there are some really fun and funny moments too… so here goes…
As I shared, my hair decided to fall out. I've been asked so many times “am I ok?”… honestly in the grander scheme, I am. It’s weird. I look weird. But the other side effects are actually worse.
Except- itchy head!!!
About a week after it fell out and we buzzed what little was left, I was struggling. It’s like some of the little bits are growing, and some are very unhappy. Reaching out to a friend who has recently done this journey, I cried "help!"
"A lint roller," she replied!
Lint roller… Joel obliges… like, really!! Sat there, having my almost-bald head rolled, it’s like it’s not quite enough. Then my phone buzzes…"packing tape- I forgot we needed an upgrade."
In a state of expected relief and horror, Joel takes off to find supplies. He returns with 3M finishing tape (because car guys are car guys). Bright yellow tape attached, and rip… strip by strip my head is “waxed?!?!”
The relief is instant and the pile of yellow strips are accumulating…
Dad thinks he’s onto something and should patent the process. The stuff no one tells you about having chemo!
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