Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Chemo Dos

Yesterday was my second day of chemo; this time with two completely different drugs than the last time. The reactions will be a bit different. We'll see what this week has in store. It certainly keeps my life interesting. I ended up making it to the beach on Sunday with a friend; much needed sun time. Although, by the end of the day, I realized why it was exactly that they told me to be careful in the sun. My skin is much more sensitive to the sun. ouch, but totally worth it.

My experience at chemo yesterday was much more at ease than my first time. My doctor's said that my blood counts were really good, and given that I didn't have any huge reactions to the drugs, they say that I'm accepting the drugs really well. I guess my body can handle a healthy dose of toxins (smile). I seriously only had one major problem, and that was my right arm (the one they injected me in last time) has become painful, but they say that should fade. Brett has been a great support and friend through all of this. He's pretty entertaining. And I have to say, I enjoy having a little man-slave for the day.

This experience has been a very visceral so far. I've been relying on my own intuition and physical well-being to know what this disease is doing to me. It's quite unnerving to not feel the actual effects of a deadly disease like cancer, but learning to really pay attention to yourself and understanding the awareness of your being is so much a part of how we fit into this world and are able to exist in it peacefully. I'm looking forward to reaching that place where I can swallow what comes at me and grow because of it.

thanks all for so much of the support! more pictures to come!

4 comments:

gardena buddha said...

Hi Catherine,

Amy and I just received the news from Brett. I felt weak and a lot of sorrow reading his email. But, I was uplifted by your blog and your positive attitude and the support from a great group of friends, husband, and family. We know that you will come out of this okay and stronger. I am sending my love and support from far away.

Peace and Love,

Paul

Anonymous said...

my dear catherine,
you are a RAY of sunshine. i know it will all be ok. You are healthy and strong and funny dam it. This counts. Humor has been known to cure much. I love reading your blog. I'd like to accompany you to your chemo. How can i do this. I am home doing mainly baby watching so please let me take you once if i can if you need a ride from a has-been employee of the GAP. miss your sweet smile. Please let me know if i can take you ok....big hugs soraya

Anonymous said...

Hi Catherine,
I spoke with Brett last weekend, and he told me the news, as well as how strong and incredibly positive youve been. I wanted to drop you a note to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers everyday, and i know you'll get through this in no time. Talk to you soon.

Love, Justin

kpcs said...

Hi, Cathy,

Your blog is wonderful-so upbeat, funny, and inspirational also. You are so strong and positive in a negative situation; but at the same time you are a strong woman and you and Brett will get through this one baby step at a time. The fact that you are taking aggressive action proves that! A lot of people would have "caved"

Dad and I also felt our hearts drop-kind of surreal nightmare- when you first told us last month. But since you have gotten such a positive attitude, we have too. You just don't want anything bad ever to happen to your child.

We will come out to see you sometime soon hopefully. You certainly have a wonderful support group there. If you need anything, just call.

With Love, Prayers, and Hugs,

Dad and Mom