This extra week has been good. Thankful for some time away from this place. Jon and the boys drop me off after the trek in. Unclear on if today I will get infusion; have had some signs of continued low platelets from chemo (bruising easier, bleeding gums with brushing my teeth, etc.). So hard moving forward with all of the signs my body has been giving me. After a pep talk last night with my mentor, I feel ready for whatever comes.

My primary nurse is in today. She and I have catch up on symptoms, plan, then review of animal adventures. She is currently figuring out and managing 9 cats… I love this, and her. She is the most empathetic and endearing soul.

Port accessed, labs drawn.

Waiting. Watching the others around me. Realizing how lucky I am to be on this side of my battle. I exchange gentle glances of acknowledgement with the other patients. Many of the nurses pop by and say hello.

Labs came back with some recovery and almost normal, so we proceed! I get my pre- medications; steroids, extra hydration, anti-nausea, antihistamines. At this point a nap is induced from the Benadryl, which helps ease nervousness as well. Then comes the chemo. It creates an ache in my entire body, and slows me down almost immediately. I tell myself that means it’s working. The infusion lasts a couple hours, I rest for the majority, somewhat thankful for the Benadryl haze.

Disconnect from clinic fluids and chemo. Bolus of 5FU. Connect to home pump.

Round 9 of 12 in! I will return Wednesday for disconnect. My nurse and I high five, 3 more and I get to ring the damn bell!!! (When someone finishes treatment, there’s a bell that puts a tone and noise to the epic battle cancer patients go through).

My dear friend’s husband gives me a ride home. His humor is always appreciated.

Home to a quiet house and beautiful double rainbow. Another round almost down.

Mantras:

Trust the Universe. Find the light. The bell.

Music:

BJ Thomas, “Raindrops keep falling on my head”