I completed session 5 on July 26/27 - only one more to go! I fared a little better this session; inserting the IV went smoother, although my veins are still cringing in fear and pain, and the side effects were challenging but manageable compared to the last session. I felt badly about posting such a forlorn blog after the last session, but my doctor (my personal physician who has the best sense of humor) pointed out that I'm allowed to have a pity party while I go through this. Sorry that you all had to bear the brunt of it, that's all.
So, next and final session is August 23/24, and then a reprieve - at least I think so. After the last session I will have to check in with the oncologist in Victoria following a CT scan that will hopefully show that the lymphoma is in remission. I also have a follow up with "Doogie Howser" in Vancouver at end of September, where we'll firm up logistics for the stem cell transplant to come in December.
We've been experiencing a brutal heat wave here over the last couple of weeks and I've not been venturing outside too much. I find that I am very sensitive to the sun and the heat while on chemo, and am discovering new sensitivities with each session. For instance, I gave myself a facial a couple weeks ago, using an all natural product that I'd used many times before. After only a few minutes my face was on fire and I thought that my skin was literally peeling away. Now I know what it's like to be that kid you went to school with who was allergic to everything!
The other area I've had time to contemplate is the many friends and family members who have gone, or are going through this cancer journey. I'm not certain whether the prevalence of cancer is at epidemic proportions or if I'm just aware of it more since I landed on this path. It's difficult not to feel the pain and uncertainty that everyone experiences, especially those with young children. This in itself gives me strength and purpose to focus less on my own circumstance, and to send prayers and positive thoughts for recovery to my fellow travelers.
I have no firm plans for the 3 month hiatus, but as soon as the tourists have gone back home, I do hope to do some day trips and overnight stays in Vancouver, Victoria, Tofino and other places around the island. We'll also be hosting some visitors in September and October before monsoon season hits in November. Best news though is that, finally after almost 2 years, Don will be moving here next week. For those of you who don't know our history, Don has recently retired and this will be our first time living together. We're starting out with a bit of a setback (there's an understatement); but you know me, I am always up for a challenge.
As summer starts to wind down, wishing everyone safe travels and relaxing holidays.