The Treatment Plan

For the cancer I've got there is a specific treatment plan. I do this and the odds are 90% I will never see this cancer again. Here's what will take place:
Radiation: There will be approximately 33 radiation treatments aimed at my pelvic area. They began July 5 and will conclude at approximately August 18th.
Reaction: First third: No issues. Second third: Discomfort. Final third: Increasing discomfort, culminating in 'brutal'.
Chemotherapy: There will be two courses of treatment. The first was started on July 5. The second will begin August 1st.
Reaction: First course produced nasty mouth sores, an overall sludgey feeling and 'chemo brain'. At least I know what to expect for the second course, and can make some plans.

I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

Monday, August 22, 2011

The News from Providence St. V., Room 501

Yep. I'm hangin' in the hospital, gettin' all fixed up.
Just couldn't face starting rad treatments again while feeling so very debilitated.
Rad Doctor agreed, so, after my treatment (now only four left,) I checked in here.
Very glad I did.
Needed more electrolytes/Potassium.
Had low grade bladder infection that needed treating.
Got professional burn care, and some helpful advice on self care, and a new dandy prescription ointment.
Got vague nausea feelings controlled.
And the bathroom is only 10 feet away.
Hmm. Did I mention cable TV? Got to watch some cable only little league games between naps. Lovely.
Pleasant view of the west hills. Sky and trees. Don't think I'll need to close the blinds, just like at home.
Good comfort food. Not the way of choice for lifetime eating, but perfect for now.
Oh, and would you believe, the painters were back, this time at the front, so I effectively escaped them yet again.
Special note to Becky, Carolyn and Sharon - Guess who my nurse is? Remember dear sweet Bjorn? Well, he's just as sweet as ever, and says hello to you all. The rest of the staff is really nice and good at their jobs.
And that, friends, is the news from Providence St. V., 501

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.
Fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing.
The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.
Psalm 34:8-10

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