Chemotherapy #4 of 6 - Done!
Today was a chemotherapy day - only two left! I tried to draw the infusion pump but it had more buttons and knobs and tubing and hanging bags and all sorts of other things so it was a bit complicated. I'll try again another day.... maybe.
I left kind of bummed. My white cell count is so low that for the next three days I have to go back for Neupogen shots. Instead of grousing I should be grateful. I remember that, some 35 years ago, a friend died from infection as a complication of chemotherapy - but that was before Neupogen was created. I've had constant infections since October so I'm considered high risk and with no real immune system!
I was also told that the next time I have a fever I should do what I did - take Tylenol to see if I can bring it down and avoid going to the Emergency Department - but I should also go directly to the infusion center so they can do some blood testing and track down the cause.
You know, I'm starting to feel like a patient! I spend so much time either in the medical center or emailing doctors, ordering medications, traveling the 45 minutes for blood draws and scans and appointments. I liked remission better, all nine years of it!
I left kind of bummed. My white cell count is so low that for the next three days I have to go back for Neupogen shots. Instead of grousing I should be grateful. I remember that, some 35 years ago, a friend died from infection as a complication of chemotherapy - but that was before Neupogen was created. I've had constant infections since October so I'm considered high risk and with no real immune system!
I was also told that the next time I have a fever I should do what I did - take Tylenol to see if I can bring it down and avoid going to the Emergency Department - but I should also go directly to the infusion center so they can do some blood testing and track down the cause.
You know, I'm starting to feel like a patient! I spend so much time either in the medical center or emailing doctors, ordering medications, traveling the 45 minutes for blood draws and scans and appointments. I liked remission better, all nine years of it!
Congratulations on completing the fourth installment, Barbara. I know the ups and downs must be no fun (major understatement!), but I'm glad you were able to have the chemo today & that the Neupogen is available to address the white blood cell issue.
ReplyDeleteYes, I really need an attitude adjustment. I am alive, after all, and there's a lot to be said for that!
ReplyDeleteI'm grateful for all the many things humans have thought up to combat cancer! God is amazing in the abilities he gave to humans! I wouldn't fault yourself for feeling down occassionally - you are going through a lot, but a cheery attitude (which you usually seem to have) is good for the mind, body and soul!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're ok Barbara! :-)
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