I suppose I owe everyone at least one last post. I've completed all 14 Cycles!!! How amazing is that? It took a total of almost 8 months, from the first cycle which start Dec 6th, to the last which ended on July 27th. I had a month off before the wedding, so really it was about 7 months. What an adventure, that I'd really like to never repeat ;o)
Cycle 14 was probably one of the hardest. For some reason I could taste everything that week. So I could taste the chemo once they started it. This caused me to be quite nauseous most of the week. I got smart and started chewing gum to off set the taste, which did help a bit. My brother, Sean, Courtney and my mom and stepdad joined me for the week. Throughout the whole week my red blood counts were low, so I ended up having a transfusion on Saturday. I was so glad to be done with chemo, but just because you are done, doesn't mean you automatically feel better and your hair comes back right away, hahaha. No, no, no.... the next few weeks are the worst and your hair takes months to come back.
The following week my counts, in true chemo fashion, dropped again. When my white counts drop, I usually get a fever, and last time I ended up in the hospital. So this time I did everything opposite of what I typically had done. When I started getting cold, I'd go outside for a while to warm up, I'd also turn up the temperature in the house. Whatever I could do to not spike a fever, it worked!! On Friday, August 3, I had what I was hoping would be my final blood and platelet transfusions. This made a grand total of 11 blood transfusions and 6 platelet transfusions throughout this whole process. I had to get these transfusions on Friday though so I could make my flight to Providence in order to attend my sis-in-law's baby shower that was scheduled for Sunday. Justin was headed out of town, so mom and I went to spend the weekend with Steph. Little did she know that we had a surprise up our sleeve. She said there were some subtle hints here and there but overalls the surprise shower was a success and I was so glad I finally didn't have to miss another important event.
The next week they scheduled me for the CT scan on my chest. The Dr said that if this came back clear, I could have my port removed. I had my Drs appt and the scan came back CLEAR!!! I'm CANCER FREE!!! AHHHHH!!! I have my port removal surgery scheduled for Aug 21, YES!
So now it's time for recovery and reflection. What a crazy whirlwind of a year it has been. At the end of this month will mark when I last had a flare up in my arm and went to see the Dr. Dr Croog took an xray which change my life forever. I then saw two other Drs who finally told me the problem, Ewings Sarcoma, or bone cancer. A cancer that one typically sees in adolescents and not adults. And that I would have to undergo 14 cycles of chemotherapy that would take me past the wedding. But the most overwhelming part was all of the love and support I received from my family. Everyone wanted to play some role. As I'm learning about all of this stuff that could happen to me while undergoing the chemo, everyone was asking how they could help. In the beginning I really didn't know. But everyday I had someone with me during chemo. Even if they just sat there and watched me sleep, I knew they were there.
My brother, Justin, told me he'd be here at least one day a month during my week long treatment. He lived up to his word and so much more. At least once a month he took me to chemo, we worked, side-by-side. He even had to drive me to the Pentagon, during rush hour, one time to get a new CAC card after I locked myself out. Although he got lost on the way home, it meant so much to me that he was willing to go above and beyond to help me out. His wife, Stephanie, thanks for letting him be away so much, especially since you were 7 months pregnant the last time he came out. To my sister who lives across the country and came out for my birthday just to spend the day in the hospital while I received blood. My Aunt Patti, who came twice all the way from New Jersey. To all of my parents, Dad and Becky who sat with me numerous times at treatment; my mom who would always stop in on her way to work, and Julian who stepped in whenever he could. To Diane, who would drive up and stay just to take me to my treatments and who helped out so much with the wedding and made my life just that much easier. To my sis-in-law, Judy, who has helped me from the beginning with the chemo class and throughout my treatments. To Courtney, who although she says she "didn't do much," did more than your typical friend and offered me advice from her mom. Nothing was ever typical when Courtney came with me. From the jawless singer to the young girl trying to escape to go out and smoke, I always knew I was in for something when Courtney joined me. And to Sean, who couldn't always take me to my treatments but was here for me more than I could have ever imagined. Words can not express how grateful I am to be spending the rest of my life with such a great man. He never complained when I couldn't help, he understood and carried on. He listened to my complaints and pushed me to continue on and reach the finish line. Our relationship has already been tested and I think we passed ;o)
And to everyone who sent cards, flowers, etc. you know how to make a girl smile!!
I'm so ready to get back to my normal life and get back to work (thought I'd never say that ;o) I feel like I need to make up for lost time and that starts with getting out of the house because I'm no longer in isolation!! YES :o)
I will have periodic checkups over the next 2 years and then they will taper off through the next 5 years. Highest rate of reoccurrence is within the first 2 years.
Thank you for your continued support. I couldn't have made it this far without all of the thoughts and prayers, I am so grateful!
Here's to the rest of my life, living CANCER FREE!
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Cycle 13 - COMPLETED, Hospital Visit, Blood and Platelet Transfusions
Hi Everyone. Can you believe it, I've completed yet ANOTHER cycle of chemo!!! I only have ONE left. This round through us for a loop but I'm coming back strong and ready to have this chapter of my life done with!!
Cycle 13 was a short cycle, only two days. This was right after those horrible storms that took out the electricity. Sean and I were lucky that ours just went out for less than 5 minutes and came right back on. The night before chemo (Sunday July 1) I received a call from one of my nurses that the power was out at the office I would I have to go to the Alexandria office the next morning for treatment. Fortunately the power was restored Monday morning so I was able to go to Fairfax. Sean had taken a sick day since he too was supposed to have a drs appt, so he took me to chemo. The second day, my sis-in-law, Judy, took me for the short couple of hours. This particular combination of chemo is worse than the long chemo combination. I felt awful afterwards. I hadn't had this chemo since before the wedding and yeah, it got me. My red count was really low and therefore I had to get a blood transfusion on the 4th of July at 6am. Sean was off again, so he took me and went and hit golf balls and then came back and picked me up. I slept the rest of the day, what an awesome 4th, huh? On Thursday the 5th, I went in for my Neulasta shot, and then Friday I took it easy since my bones were feeling a bit sore. I do have to say, the pain in my bones has been decreasing with each shot, it's getting easier to tolerate them.
The following week I went in on Tuesday, July 10, for my blood work. I knew I'd be low so I had already made an appt for the next day for a platelet transfusion. The Physician's assistant said I'd most likely need blood and more platelets on Friday so we went ahead and made those appts in the infusion clinic at Fairfax. Little did I know that I'd be headed to the hospital that night and I'd be staying there for 3 days.
My fevers always happen in the evening. Sean keeps the house so cold that most of the time I don't know if I'm shivering because of the temp in the house or because I have a fever. So I'm ALWAYS taking my temperature. But Tuesday night when I couldn't shake the chills even under the heating blanket, I knew I had a fever. The only question was, how high is it? First check, 100.6, wait 15 mins, I had been under a heating blanket, second check 100.7. NOT GOOD. The thresh hold for calling the on-call Dr is 100.5. I called and got a hold of the Dr, he said I could 1) take Tylenol and see if my fever would break, or 2) go to the ER. After talking to him a bit more, he decided I just needed to go to the ER. So off we went at 1120pm to FairOaks ER. We chose FairOaks because, 1) it's closer to our house and 2) the on-call Dr said he'd be there the next day and could check on me.
In the ER, the nurse accessed my port and took blood culture samples. At 315am they said I was going to be admitted and I'd be moved upstairs in about 30 mins. Right on the dot, 345am, they moved me to the Medical/Oncology floor. At this point Sean and I were so exhausted. Once I was settled in the room, he went home to take care of the dogs and sleep a bit. Since I had no idea how long I'd be in the hospital, I had Sean bring me somethings from home. Day 1 - I saw SO many Drs. I had had fevers before but never been in the hospital for them, so this was really interesting. I received two very strong antibiotics, and apparently my counts had plummeted since I had been at the Drs office, so now needed blood and platelet transfusions. So, I received my transfusions at the hospital and of course, in the evening, my temperature once again went up to 100.2. They gave me some Tylenol and I woke up drenched in sweat in the middle of the night. I was hoping that this was the end of my fevers. On Day 2 - I saw all of the same Drs once again and the oncologist said that he couldn't let me go home because I had had a fever the night before. I was upset, but understood the reasoning. I didn't want to go home and have to come back. So, since Sean had gone back to work thinking I would be going home, he came over after work and brought me more of my things from home. My mom, dad, stepmom and neighbor also came over to visit. That night, my fever only reached 99.6 that night and they gave me more Tylenol. Once again I woke up drenched in sweat. Day 3 - Sean took the day off again to spend the day with me. I saw all of the Drs, but much later than usual. First the Infectious Disease Dr came in, told me I still didn't have any growth in the blood cultures and she would release me to go home as long as the oncologist agreed. The oncologist came in around noon and she too said I was good to go home as long as the Internal medicine Dr agreed. So, we waited, and waited and waited for her to show up. At 330pm she came in. She released me and we were headed out around 430pm, FINALLY!!
Over the weekend I just rested. Originally we were going to get away for the weekend, but now, I just wanted to be home. It seems as if whenever we plan to go somewhere I always get sick, but what can you do?
I went in for labs again yesterday. Everything seems to be coming back up. The Dr said I should be fine to receive my LAST cycle of chemo next week, July 23-27.
I'm looking forward to completing this portion of my life and moving on to bigger and better things.
Ok, last round, here goes nothing!
Cycle 13 was a short cycle, only two days. This was right after those horrible storms that took out the electricity. Sean and I were lucky that ours just went out for less than 5 minutes and came right back on. The night before chemo (Sunday July 1) I received a call from one of my nurses that the power was out at the office I would I have to go to the Alexandria office the next morning for treatment. Fortunately the power was restored Monday morning so I was able to go to Fairfax. Sean had taken a sick day since he too was supposed to have a drs appt, so he took me to chemo. The second day, my sis-in-law, Judy, took me for the short couple of hours. This particular combination of chemo is worse than the long chemo combination. I felt awful afterwards. I hadn't had this chemo since before the wedding and yeah, it got me. My red count was really low and therefore I had to get a blood transfusion on the 4th of July at 6am. Sean was off again, so he took me and went and hit golf balls and then came back and picked me up. I slept the rest of the day, what an awesome 4th, huh? On Thursday the 5th, I went in for my Neulasta shot, and then Friday I took it easy since my bones were feeling a bit sore. I do have to say, the pain in my bones has been decreasing with each shot, it's getting easier to tolerate them.
The following week I went in on Tuesday, July 10, for my blood work. I knew I'd be low so I had already made an appt for the next day for a platelet transfusion. The Physician's assistant said I'd most likely need blood and more platelets on Friday so we went ahead and made those appts in the infusion clinic at Fairfax. Little did I know that I'd be headed to the hospital that night and I'd be staying there for 3 days.
My fevers always happen in the evening. Sean keeps the house so cold that most of the time I don't know if I'm shivering because of the temp in the house or because I have a fever. So I'm ALWAYS taking my temperature. But Tuesday night when I couldn't shake the chills even under the heating blanket, I knew I had a fever. The only question was, how high is it? First check, 100.6, wait 15 mins, I had been under a heating blanket, second check 100.7. NOT GOOD. The thresh hold for calling the on-call Dr is 100.5. I called and got a hold of the Dr, he said I could 1) take Tylenol and see if my fever would break, or 2) go to the ER. After talking to him a bit more, he decided I just needed to go to the ER. So off we went at 1120pm to FairOaks ER. We chose FairOaks because, 1) it's closer to our house and 2) the on-call Dr said he'd be there the next day and could check on me.
In the ER, the nurse accessed my port and took blood culture samples. At 315am they said I was going to be admitted and I'd be moved upstairs in about 30 mins. Right on the dot, 345am, they moved me to the Medical/Oncology floor. At this point Sean and I were so exhausted. Once I was settled in the room, he went home to take care of the dogs and sleep a bit. Since I had no idea how long I'd be in the hospital, I had Sean bring me somethings from home. Day 1 - I saw SO many Drs. I had had fevers before but never been in the hospital for them, so this was really interesting. I received two very strong antibiotics, and apparently my counts had plummeted since I had been at the Drs office, so now needed blood and platelet transfusions. So, I received my transfusions at the hospital and of course, in the evening, my temperature once again went up to 100.2. They gave me some Tylenol and I woke up drenched in sweat in the middle of the night. I was hoping that this was the end of my fevers. On Day 2 - I saw all of the same Drs once again and the oncologist said that he couldn't let me go home because I had had a fever the night before. I was upset, but understood the reasoning. I didn't want to go home and have to come back. So, since Sean had gone back to work thinking I would be going home, he came over after work and brought me more of my things from home. My mom, dad, stepmom and neighbor also came over to visit. That night, my fever only reached 99.6 that night and they gave me more Tylenol. Once again I woke up drenched in sweat. Day 3 - Sean took the day off again to spend the day with me. I saw all of the Drs, but much later than usual. First the Infectious Disease Dr came in, told me I still didn't have any growth in the blood cultures and she would release me to go home as long as the oncologist agreed. The oncologist came in around noon and she too said I was good to go home as long as the Internal medicine Dr agreed. So, we waited, and waited and waited for her to show up. At 330pm she came in. She released me and we were headed out around 430pm, FINALLY!!
Over the weekend I just rested. Originally we were going to get away for the weekend, but now, I just wanted to be home. It seems as if whenever we plan to go somewhere I always get sick, but what can you do?
I went in for labs again yesterday. Everything seems to be coming back up. The Dr said I should be fine to receive my LAST cycle of chemo next week, July 23-27.
I'm looking forward to completing this portion of my life and moving on to bigger and better things.
Ok, last round, here goes nothing!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
CYCLE 12 - D.O.N.E - oh and, I got married!!!
Welcome back to my blog :o) I know, I took a month off, but I needed it, I had to get married to the man I Love and spend some time with my friends who made the journey from Germany to come to the wedding. Oh right, and I completed another cycle of chemo, YES!
Well, as you know about 5 days after the last blog post, Sean and I got married :o) We couldn't have asked or ordered a more perfect day in terms of weather. The ceremony was to be held outside at The Mill at Fine Creek and everything was completely perfect. We had so much amazing help from the staff at The Mill and my family/friends, Sean and I felt completely blessed! As you can see from the picture, I felt so good I teased Sean that I would SMASH the cake in his face. But I didn't because I didn't want him to do the same to me :o) He could've pulled an eyelash off, hahahaha!!!! I felt so beautiful that day. The hair and makeup "Glam Squad" were amazing. I'll never forget being told by someone they were surprised I "hadn't lost my hair....through all the chemo." I chuckled and humbly informed them that I was wearing a wig, and fake eyelashes and that my eyebrows had been drawn on. It didn't matter to me, but it was flattering to know that everything just looked THAT REAL! Our day was just simply amazing. We enjoyed having all of those we love surrounding us and hope that we were able to at least say HI to everyone before they had to leave, if we missed you we are truly sorry!!
The week following the wedding (which should've been our honeymoon, we are going on a Caribbean cruise in November!) was supposed to be Chemo Cycle 12, however, when my lab results came back that my white count was too low to receive chemo, I was pushed a week. Well, it couldn't have come at a better time. My friends from Germany were still here and I was ready to tackle Virginia with them! We had a great week visiting the mountains of the Shenandoah Valley, and going into DC. Although it wasn't by choice, it was great to have more time with them.
Cycle 12 began last week, June 11th and was a full week of chemo. My husband (tee hee!) accompanied me on Monday, Diane, my MIL, on Tuesday and Wednesday, Justin came down and took me Thursday and then Courtney, just back from Jamaica, took me Friday. Sean has only been with me a few times, it was nice to have him there, good quality, errrrr... ok, well, time together at least :o) Diane hasn't missed a beat when it comes to taking me to chemo. She's been amazing, always offering to come up and take me at the drop of a hat. Since my chemo weeks were pushed, she is not going to be able to take me any of the next two cycles. She felt bad about not being able to help, but truthfully, I ONLY HAVE 2 CYCLES LEFT!!!! So Diane, don't feel bad, you've been there so many other times and I'll never forget that. Thank you.
The weekend began with the Neulasta shot which will tell my bone marrow to make more white cells. I had a bit of bone pain this time, especially in my jaw and left arm. But for the most part it was bearable. Went in for labs today and my white count is basically zero, ok, it's 180, but since it should be in the 2,000 range, that's close enough to zero for me. Therefore, I'm back in isolation and taking antibiotics to keep away possible infections. My red blood counts stayed above the critical numbers but my platelets were also quite low. I have to go back on Friday to have my labs drawn again. I have two full weeks off in between cycles now. So my next cycle isn't until July 2-3, short week. Then my last scheduled chemo cycle will be the week of July 23!! Oh my goodness, it's SO CLOSE!
So I'll post again after my next cycle. Life as Sean's wife is awesome, I can't wait for our future after chemo!
The week following the wedding (which should've been our honeymoon, we are going on a Caribbean cruise in November!) was supposed to be Chemo Cycle 12, however, when my lab results came back that my white count was too low to receive chemo, I was pushed a week. Well, it couldn't have come at a better time. My friends from Germany were still here and I was ready to tackle Virginia with them! We had a great week visiting the mountains of the Shenandoah Valley, and going into DC. Although it wasn't by choice, it was great to have more time with them.
Cycle 12 began last week, June 11th and was a full week of chemo. My husband (tee hee!) accompanied me on Monday, Diane, my MIL, on Tuesday and Wednesday, Justin came down and took me Thursday and then Courtney, just back from Jamaica, took me Friday. Sean has only been with me a few times, it was nice to have him there, good quality, errrrr... ok, well, time together at least :o) Diane hasn't missed a beat when it comes to taking me to chemo. She's been amazing, always offering to come up and take me at the drop of a hat. Since my chemo weeks were pushed, she is not going to be able to take me any of the next two cycles. She felt bad about not being able to help, but truthfully, I ONLY HAVE 2 CYCLES LEFT!!!! So Diane, don't feel bad, you've been there so many other times and I'll never forget that. Thank you.
The weekend began with the Neulasta shot which will tell my bone marrow to make more white cells. I had a bit of bone pain this time, especially in my jaw and left arm. But for the most part it was bearable. Went in for labs today and my white count is basically zero, ok, it's 180, but since it should be in the 2,000 range, that's close enough to zero for me. Therefore, I'm back in isolation and taking antibiotics to keep away possible infections. My red blood counts stayed above the critical numbers but my platelets were also quite low. I have to go back on Friday to have my labs drawn again. I have two full weeks off in between cycles now. So my next cycle isn't until July 2-3, short week. Then my last scheduled chemo cycle will be the week of July 23!! Oh my goodness, it's SO CLOSE!
So I'll post again after my next cycle. Life as Sean's wife is awesome, I can't wait for our future after chemo!
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Cycle 11 - Fertig, more blood and platelet transfusions....
Cycle 11 is DONE and I only have 3 more cycles left. but not unit after the wedding :o)
It's been a long journey but I finally feel like this is all about to end. I still have 3 more grueling chemo cycles but there's an end in sight and first, I'm going to get married!!
My MIL and my SIL took me to the two chemo cycles this time. This was the first time I had had two days of chemo since the end of radiation. Don't forget, during radiation my short week was only one day... so they added the extra chemo back in this time and boy did my body not like that. I felt pretty good through the end of the chemo week, but by Friday I was already getting winded and so I knew I was going to need a blood transfusion. What I wasn't prepared for was how awful I was going to feel the following week. By Monday I could barely stand up for more than 5-10 mins without getting tired and having to lay back down for at least 20 mins. I laid in bed most of Monday and ended up developing a fever. My mom was so worried that she told me to email the nurses to get an appt for Tuesday instead of waiting for my scheduled appointment on Wednesday. I was able to get in the office Tuesday afternoon and sure enough, everything was critically low. I think if it was possible to have negative counts, mine would have been negative. So a blood transfusion was scheduled for Wednesday and because of my fever, I was put on IV and oral antibiotics.
The blood transfusion gave my red counts a bit of a boost, but on Thursday when I went back for more labs and IV antibiotics, my platelets were down to 19 (should be 140 at the lowest 'normal' level), so I was headed back to the hospital in the morning for a platelet transfusion. I also had to go in over the weekend for more antibiotics.
My Bridal Shower was May 12th and because I had had such a rough week and basically no white count, we had to make sure that no one showed up sick to the shower. Luckily I have an awesome Matron of honor (Cat) who sent out a quick email just asking people to keep me safe by not showing up if they'd been sick or had sick little ones at home, etc. Luckily it didn't seem to have affected too many people and the shower was awesome! We had a lot of fun dressing our models in wrapping paper and bows made into fashionable wedding dresses... if I hadn't already found mine, I would've taken one of those ;o)
The next week I did go pick up my wedding dress and it fits perfectly! I went back for more labs on Thursday May 17th and they were so good that the nurses told me I didn't have to come back until after the wedding!! I couldn't believe it. Not only did I have time off of chemo, but now I had time off of going to the drs office!! Sweet :o) On Friday the 18th, Cat and I went down to Richmond for my hair and makeup trail. Everything worked out great. Cat was even nice enough to take a detour home and drop me off with Sean so I could go with him down to Culpepper to watch his dad land his new plane that he had flown from Ohio that morning. It was pretty awesome to see it! I'm excited to one day take a ride!!
The next week I went into work Monday and Tuesday. It was great to see everyone. I can't wait to be there full time again. It was definitely hard getting up on Tuesday after having such a long day with no nap on Monday (haha.. no nap)... but totally worth it. I went back to working from home the rest of the week but look forward to going back sometime in June, I hope.
That brings me to this weekend. We've had some house projects to get done in anticipation of our house guests that start coming in tomorrow. We are hosting some of my former exchange students while they stay here in the States and so we had to make sure we had adequate accommodations while they are here.
I can't believe the wedding is less than a week away. And as of tomorrow, May 28th, Sean and I will have been engaged for a year!! We have been through so much in this year, really in these last 5 months, I just can't believe it's here. But I'm ready. I'm ready to walk down the aisle and see the man who didn't flinch when the Dr told us I had cancer. I'm ready to marry the man who continues to stand beside me while I endured the most painful experience of my life. I'm ready to say "I Do" to the man who even though I have no hair, eye brows or eye lashes, still tells me I'm beautiful. I'm ready to tell him that I too will be there to support him now and forever as his wife. I'm ready to throw an amazing party and celebrate this time with some of our closest friends and family. and I'm ready to not have to plan this wedding anymore :o) hahaha....
In my next post I will be Mrs. Dani Strait.... won't that be different? At least my initials stayed the same FTW!!
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Cycle 10 and Radiation- COMPLETED, more blood and platelet transfusions
Hey everyone. SO so sorry it has taken me so long to post this. I was fairly sick after this last round and it really took a toll on me.
Radiation is DONE, after 31 treatments. I received a certificate and everything for completing it all! The nurse told me my arm would get worse before it started to heal, boy was she right. For the first week and a half after I finished treatment I could barely even use my left arm. It was so tender and bright red. Compare it to a REALLY BAD sunburn. The skin was weeping, peeling, and swollen. It is now starting to heal and I can actually start bending and straightening it. The Dr told me I may need physical therapy but I'm trying my best to move it as much as I can.
Cycle 10 went as well as could be expected. I had some great company that week, my mom/Sean, step mom, brother, friend Courtney and my Aunt Patti came down from New Jersey. Thursday was the off day. I felt so sick and actually had to stick my head out of the window on the way to the office. Needless to say the nurses gave me some great drugs and I began to feel better. On Friday, after chemo, Sean decided we needed to go and find out about the cost of our wedding rings. Good thing I sucked it up and went. It takes 6-8 weeks to make a custom wedding band and we had 7 weeks until the wedding. Somehow Sean misunderstood how long it was going to take. We had to give them my ring for a week so they could make the mold. I'm so glad that we are going to have wedding rings ;o)
The week after chemo was a different story. The whole week I just felt awful. I scheduled my dress fitting for Tuesday and one of my former bosses came down to go with me. We had a lovely lunch and she stayed for dinner, but I wasn't feeling all that great. We had a lovely time and my dress only needed minor alterations, thank goodness! I had scheduled a blood transfusion for Thursday and my labs on Wednesday showed that I also needed platelets. During the transfusions I began to run a fever and my left hand started swelling. The nurse said the swelling was from the radiation and was nothing to be worried about. When I left the hospital it had reached 100.0. If I ever have a temp of 100.5 or higher, I have to call the on-call Dr. At 430, my temp had reached 100.8. I called the Dr, she told me that it was probably from the transfusion and to take Tylenol. The next day I went back for more labs, I waited in the waiting room for over 30mins, watching all of these people who came in after me get their blood drawn. I finally asked what was going on and apparently because of my fever the night before, they wanted to get blood cultures to check for infection. I wish someone had told me about this, but what can you do. I wasn't running a fever at the time, but my labs showed that my platelets hadn't recovered, in fact they had gone down. So I needed another transfusion. I also showed the nurse practitioner my hand and she was worried about the swelling and ordered a scan of my arm. So I went and got the scan done, everything was fine, then I headed to the hospital. When the nurse took my vitals at the hospital, my temp was 101.0. I couldn't believe that in just a few hours my temp had risen that much. So, the nurses at the hospital called the Drs office and they decided to put me on IV antibiotics. We were supposed to leave for Florida on Saturday, but now I had to go to the office and get antibiotics all weekend.
I messaged Sean that we weren't going to be able to go to Florida and he was fine with the change in plans. He said my health was more important than anything else so getting me healthy should be our priority. What a guy, huh? He decided to keep the week off and spend it at home with me and the pups. By Monday, I hadn't had a fever all weekend and Dr Spira said I was on the mend. He blamed my arm for the fever/infection.
We decided to go down to Charlottesville to visit Sean's parents for a few days this past week. I decided to keep Thursday and Friday off and enjoy the mountains. Although we didn't get to go to Disney or see the beach down in Florida, it was a nice week with my hubby-to-be and he took such great care of me. Since Sean was home, we decided to go and get our marriage certificate so he wouldn't have to take another day off work. The process was so simple and I'm glad we can check that off of our list of things to do. I also went and picked out the flower girl dress and fabric. Linda Boggs is going to make the dress for our flower girl who is coming all the way from Germany. She is the daughter of my former exchange students and I'm so excited she is going to be a part of our special day.
Wedding is only 34 days away. Only little things left to do. One more cycle of chemo this week and then I'm off until after the wedding. I'm going to need this time in order to feel well at the wedding. I'm glad that I will have this time off even if it means it will take me longer to finish chemo.
So many great things to look forward too, hope you will continue to follow me through them!
Radiation is DONE, after 31 treatments. I received a certificate and everything for completing it all! The nurse told me my arm would get worse before it started to heal, boy was she right. For the first week and a half after I finished treatment I could barely even use my left arm. It was so tender and bright red. Compare it to a REALLY BAD sunburn. The skin was weeping, peeling, and swollen. It is now starting to heal and I can actually start bending and straightening it. The Dr told me I may need physical therapy but I'm trying my best to move it as much as I can.
Cycle 10 went as well as could be expected. I had some great company that week, my mom/Sean, step mom, brother, friend Courtney and my Aunt Patti came down from New Jersey. Thursday was the off day. I felt so sick and actually had to stick my head out of the window on the way to the office. Needless to say the nurses gave me some great drugs and I began to feel better. On Friday, after chemo, Sean decided we needed to go and find out about the cost of our wedding rings. Good thing I sucked it up and went. It takes 6-8 weeks to make a custom wedding band and we had 7 weeks until the wedding. Somehow Sean misunderstood how long it was going to take. We had to give them my ring for a week so they could make the mold. I'm so glad that we are going to have wedding rings ;o)
The week after chemo was a different story. The whole week I just felt awful. I scheduled my dress fitting for Tuesday and one of my former bosses came down to go with me. We had a lovely lunch and she stayed for dinner, but I wasn't feeling all that great. We had a lovely time and my dress only needed minor alterations, thank goodness! I had scheduled a blood transfusion for Thursday and my labs on Wednesday showed that I also needed platelets. During the transfusions I began to run a fever and my left hand started swelling. The nurse said the swelling was from the radiation and was nothing to be worried about. When I left the hospital it had reached 100.0. If I ever have a temp of 100.5 or higher, I have to call the on-call Dr. At 430, my temp had reached 100.8. I called the Dr, she told me that it was probably from the transfusion and to take Tylenol. The next day I went back for more labs, I waited in the waiting room for over 30mins, watching all of these people who came in after me get their blood drawn. I finally asked what was going on and apparently because of my fever the night before, they wanted to get blood cultures to check for infection. I wish someone had told me about this, but what can you do. I wasn't running a fever at the time, but my labs showed that my platelets hadn't recovered, in fact they had gone down. So I needed another transfusion. I also showed the nurse practitioner my hand and she was worried about the swelling and ordered a scan of my arm. So I went and got the scan done, everything was fine, then I headed to the hospital. When the nurse took my vitals at the hospital, my temp was 101.0. I couldn't believe that in just a few hours my temp had risen that much. So, the nurses at the hospital called the Drs office and they decided to put me on IV antibiotics. We were supposed to leave for Florida on Saturday, but now I had to go to the office and get antibiotics all weekend.
I messaged Sean that we weren't going to be able to go to Florida and he was fine with the change in plans. He said my health was more important than anything else so getting me healthy should be our priority. What a guy, huh? He decided to keep the week off and spend it at home with me and the pups. By Monday, I hadn't had a fever all weekend and Dr Spira said I was on the mend. He blamed my arm for the fever/infection.
We decided to go down to Charlottesville to visit Sean's parents for a few days this past week. I decided to keep Thursday and Friday off and enjoy the mountains. Although we didn't get to go to Disney or see the beach down in Florida, it was a nice week with my hubby-to-be and he took such great care of me. Since Sean was home, we decided to go and get our marriage certificate so he wouldn't have to take another day off work. The process was so simple and I'm glad we can check that off of our list of things to do. I also went and picked out the flower girl dress and fabric. Linda Boggs is going to make the dress for our flower girl who is coming all the way from Germany. She is the daughter of my former exchange students and I'm so excited she is going to be a part of our special day.
Wedding is only 34 days away. Only little things left to do. One more cycle of chemo this week and then I'm off until after the wedding. I'm going to need this time in order to feel well at the wedding. I'm glad that I will have this time off even if it means it will take me longer to finish chemo.
So many great things to look forward too, hope you will continue to follow me through them!
Monday, April 2, 2012
Cycle 9 - Fertig! Weeks 4-5 of Radiation, Blood and Platelet Tranfusions
Wow, I can't believe my wedding is exactly 2 months away. Sean and I went and finalized the menu, table covers and went over the plans for the wedding at the venue yesterday. We also get "fun mail" everyday with our RSVP's coming back. I actually enjoy going to the mailbox :o)
Well, a lot has gone on since I last blogged. If I recall correctly I had let you know that I was scheduled for a blood transfusion during week 4 of radiation. I was lucky enough to get a place in the infusion clinic on the 9th floor of the main tower at Ffx hospital. Those ladies had me in and out like clock work. Shortest time yet, 5 hours, amazing! Well, the following day, I went in for labs like usual and my platelets were a mere 28 (lowest in the range is 140), so needless to say, they told me I had to go right back to the hospital for a platelet transfusion. Luckily, this doesn't take nearly as long as blood and I was in and out of there in no time.
Last week, despite having the transfusions, my platelet counts were still not quite high enough to receive chemo on Monday, so they pushed me to Thursday hoping everything would recover by then. On Thursday I went in and they drew my blood, everything was good to go so I was able to get chemo. Unfortunately, the nurses told me that my Dr wanted to talk to me about going to 3-week cycles instead of the 2-week cycles I'm on now since my body isn't responding quick enough. This upset me because, well, I just want to be done! Dr Spira told me that we knew there may come a point when this would happen. The regimen is set up for 14-15 kids, not adults. Our bodies just don't regenerate as fast, thus having to change the cycle weeks. I was able to show Dr Spira that in April I basically have a 3-week cycle since we are going to Florida, and in May, well..... I will only have one cycle of chemo and I'll have 3 weeks off before the wedding (perhaps a blessing in disguise?) and then 3 cycles left after the wedding. Originally I was only going to have 2, but with the changes, another long cycle got pushed to directly after the wedding *sigh* In the whole grand scheme of things, it won't matter that I finished in July instead of June, the only thing that matters is that I no longer have cancer.
Week 5 of radiation really took a toll on my arm. It is so red now especially in my elbow area. I keep it lathered in Aquaphor as much as I can but I have to keep it covered when I got outside as well so then the lotion just comes off on my sleeve. The nurse told me to try Aloe, but that dries so quickly and then my arm still hurts. They also suggested using powder to prevent friction but that really dries out my skin so the best solution is still the Aquaphor. Last Friday once I finished my treatment they told me I still had 6 more treatments. I was confused, I thought this week was my last week, so 5 more. Apparently, somewhere, someone added 1 more treatment making it 31 sessions instead of 30. Ok, so you would think one more session, isn't a big deal, BUT IT IS!!! I was so mad. I couldn't believe that they somehow forgot to tell me that they added another session. So now I finish on a Monday, instead of a Friday. And on that Monday I have chemo, so I'm not going to feel like celebrating afterwards. Again, will it matter in 6 months? No, but I feel like I've had so many setbacks recently that this just really upset me last week. As of today, I have 5 sessions left. Next time I blog the radiation piece will be completed! YES!!!
I just wanted to Thank everyone who reads this blog and has followed me through my journey. Even if I don't hear from you, I know you are out there and I really appreciate all of the support! Not much longer :o)
Chemo: 5 more cycles
Radiation: 5 more days
April: Trip to Florida
May: Bridal Shower
June: Wedding!!!
Let's do this!!
Well, a lot has gone on since I last blogged. If I recall correctly I had let you know that I was scheduled for a blood transfusion during week 4 of radiation. I was lucky enough to get a place in the infusion clinic on the 9th floor of the main tower at Ffx hospital. Those ladies had me in and out like clock work. Shortest time yet, 5 hours, amazing! Well, the following day, I went in for labs like usual and my platelets were a mere 28 (lowest in the range is 140), so needless to say, they told me I had to go right back to the hospital for a platelet transfusion. Luckily, this doesn't take nearly as long as blood and I was in and out of there in no time.
Last week, despite having the transfusions, my platelet counts were still not quite high enough to receive chemo on Monday, so they pushed me to Thursday hoping everything would recover by then. On Thursday I went in and they drew my blood, everything was good to go so I was able to get chemo. Unfortunately, the nurses told me that my Dr wanted to talk to me about going to 3-week cycles instead of the 2-week cycles I'm on now since my body isn't responding quick enough. This upset me because, well, I just want to be done! Dr Spira told me that we knew there may come a point when this would happen. The regimen is set up for 14-15 kids, not adults. Our bodies just don't regenerate as fast, thus having to change the cycle weeks. I was able to show Dr Spira that in April I basically have a 3-week cycle since we are going to Florida, and in May, well..... I will only have one cycle of chemo and I'll have 3 weeks off before the wedding (perhaps a blessing in disguise?) and then 3 cycles left after the wedding. Originally I was only going to have 2, but with the changes, another long cycle got pushed to directly after the wedding *sigh* In the whole grand scheme of things, it won't matter that I finished in July instead of June, the only thing that matters is that I no longer have cancer.
Week 5 of radiation really took a toll on my arm. It is so red now especially in my elbow area. I keep it lathered in Aquaphor as much as I can but I have to keep it covered when I got outside as well so then the lotion just comes off on my sleeve. The nurse told me to try Aloe, but that dries so quickly and then my arm still hurts. They also suggested using powder to prevent friction but that really dries out my skin so the best solution is still the Aquaphor. Last Friday once I finished my treatment they told me I still had 6 more treatments. I was confused, I thought this week was my last week, so 5 more. Apparently, somewhere, someone added 1 more treatment making it 31 sessions instead of 30. Ok, so you would think one more session, isn't a big deal, BUT IT IS!!! I was so mad. I couldn't believe that they somehow forgot to tell me that they added another session. So now I finish on a Monday, instead of a Friday. And on that Monday I have chemo, so I'm not going to feel like celebrating afterwards. Again, will it matter in 6 months? No, but I feel like I've had so many setbacks recently that this just really upset me last week. As of today, I have 5 sessions left. Next time I blog the radiation piece will be completed! YES!!!
I just wanted to Thank everyone who reads this blog and has followed me through my journey. Even if I don't hear from you, I know you are out there and I really appreciate all of the support! Not much longer :o)
Chemo: 5 more cycles
Radiation: 5 more days
April: Trip to Florida
May: Bridal Shower
June: Wedding!!!
Let's do this!!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
CYCLE 8 - Completed, weeks 2-3 of Radiation
Cycle 8 is done and I'm halfway through radiation, awesome!
Sorry I didn't post after week 2 of radiation. There really wasn't anything to post, it was pretty easy, although getting to FFx hospital during rush hour is not my idea of fun, and my arm hadn't really changed.
Last week was my only full week of radiation AND chemo. I'm so glad this week is over! It was difficult getting up each morning for radiation and then sitting through a whole day of chemo. I was lucky to have some great company in my dad, brother and MIL.
Overall uneventful, on Wednesday I somehow locked my computer card for work and had to make a mad dash to the Pentagon after chemo and have my PIN reset. Unfortunately, my finger prints wouldn't register on their scanning device. I tried every finger, multiple times, to no avail. Apparently, the chemo has had it's effects on my hands. They do look quite different, less plump, more wrinkly, but I had no idea I could lose my fingerprints! I had just been through radiation and chemo that day, this was the last thing I needed. The guy told me I'd have to get a new card, which means a new picture. I broke down, I didn't want my picture taken, I was wearing a scarf, I was pale as a ghost, this was the last thing I wanted at this point. He was really nice about the whole thing and I finally just sucked it up because, what else was I going to do? Yes, the picture is awful, but right now, I'm the only one that has to see it and when my contract is up in August, I'll make sure I'm looking awesome for the next one ;o)
I had a pretty rough weekend. Tired and uncomfortable. I really wanted to get out and enjoy the nice weather, but it's kind of hard to enjoy when you feel like crap. Luckily Sean took Sapper down to Charlottesville on Friday night, so I only had Zoe to take care of and she's fairly easy. Sean went and met with the Pastor who is going to marry us and got some information. We meet with him again this coming weekend. So exciting!!
This week is week 4 of radiation and a full week of labs and shots. My arm is just now starting to be sore and appear more red and sun burn like. Right now I'm just putting aquaphor lotion on my arm everyday so that it doesn't get dry. Unfortunately it's my left arm, which is the one that get the sunlight in the car. I asked the Radiation Oncologist about putting sunblock on it and he recommended Neutrogena so I'll have to go pick up some of that as soon as possible. Labs today revealed that I need another blood transfusion. I'll be headed back to the hospital for blood in the morning. This time I'll be in the infusion clinic, so I'm looking forward to this experience, since all they do all day is blood transfusions. My nurses think I'll be done in record time, I'll update you on whether this is true next time :o)
Let's recap where I am, 2 1/2 more weeks of radiation and 6 more cycles of chemo to go!! I'm going on vacation at the end of April to Florida and I'm getting married in June, so many great things to look forward too, just some small hurdles to jump over on the way.
I'll post again after the next short cycle. Hope everyone is having an amazing First Day of Spring!
Sorry I didn't post after week 2 of radiation. There really wasn't anything to post, it was pretty easy, although getting to FFx hospital during rush hour is not my idea of fun, and my arm hadn't really changed.
Last week was my only full week of radiation AND chemo. I'm so glad this week is over! It was difficult getting up each morning for radiation and then sitting through a whole day of chemo. I was lucky to have some great company in my dad, brother and MIL.
Overall uneventful, on Wednesday I somehow locked my computer card for work and had to make a mad dash to the Pentagon after chemo and have my PIN reset. Unfortunately, my finger prints wouldn't register on their scanning device. I tried every finger, multiple times, to no avail. Apparently, the chemo has had it's effects on my hands. They do look quite different, less plump, more wrinkly, but I had no idea I could lose my fingerprints! I had just been through radiation and chemo that day, this was the last thing I needed. The guy told me I'd have to get a new card, which means a new picture. I broke down, I didn't want my picture taken, I was wearing a scarf, I was pale as a ghost, this was the last thing I wanted at this point. He was really nice about the whole thing and I finally just sucked it up because, what else was I going to do? Yes, the picture is awful, but right now, I'm the only one that has to see it and when my contract is up in August, I'll make sure I'm looking awesome for the next one ;o)
I had a pretty rough weekend. Tired and uncomfortable. I really wanted to get out and enjoy the nice weather, but it's kind of hard to enjoy when you feel like crap. Luckily Sean took Sapper down to Charlottesville on Friday night, so I only had Zoe to take care of and she's fairly easy. Sean went and met with the Pastor who is going to marry us and got some information. We meet with him again this coming weekend. So exciting!!
This week is week 4 of radiation and a full week of labs and shots. My arm is just now starting to be sore and appear more red and sun burn like. Right now I'm just putting aquaphor lotion on my arm everyday so that it doesn't get dry. Unfortunately it's my left arm, which is the one that get the sunlight in the car. I asked the Radiation Oncologist about putting sunblock on it and he recommended Neutrogena so I'll have to go pick up some of that as soon as possible. Labs today revealed that I need another blood transfusion. I'll be headed back to the hospital for blood in the morning. This time I'll be in the infusion clinic, so I'm looking forward to this experience, since all they do all day is blood transfusions. My nurses think I'll be done in record time, I'll update you on whether this is true next time :o)
Let's recap where I am, 2 1/2 more weeks of radiation and 6 more cycles of chemo to go!! I'm going on vacation at the end of April to Florida and I'm getting married in June, so many great things to look forward too, just some small hurdles to jump over on the way.
I'll post again after the next short cycle. Hope everyone is having an amazing First Day of Spring!
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