On 01.02.02, I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Too late for surgery, I had chemotherapy, which failed. In May the chemotherapy was changed and I was soon in remission which was celebrated and welcome and lasted nine years - until October 2011. There was progression in 2011 so more treatment was indicated and I am now back in partial remission. But I'm not only a cancer patient - I also enjoy my family, walk my dogs and am learning to draw and paint. Life is good!

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

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!

4 comments:

  1. 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.

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  2. Yes, I really need an attitude adjustment. I am alive, after all, and there's a lot to be said for that!

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  3. I'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!

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  4. I'm glad you're ok Barbara! :-)

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