Summer colds are the worst. You want to take advantage of the warmer weather (whoops, it's been raining here the last two days), you want to enjoy the sunshine and shake off the last remnants of winter. Then along comes the summer cold. Stuffy noses, congested chests and a nagging cough. I have cancer, I should be exempt from the cold. I should be given a pass..."here, head to the no-cold-this-year section..." Apparently someone forgot to put in the paperwork.
Having a cold and cancer really changes your perspective. I called my oncology nurse yesterday...my first words..."I don't want to sound like a hypochondriac, but I think I have a cold." I wasn't sure what I could or couldn't take to get relief from the symptoms, because I don't want it to get worse. Remember the magic number...38C. I've started taking my temperature every time I walk into the bathroom. The cool little digital thermometer remembers the last reading and flashes it to you before you take the next one. The nurse advised me to take cough medicine and over-the-counter cold medicine but to read the ingredients. If it has ASA I can't take it, if it has acetaminophen I have to watch my temperature because one of its properties is it masks a fever; fever indicates infection and I'm almost to the point where my white blood cells won't fight infection, so I really need to know if I'm running a temperature (and need to go to the hospital).
The mail has been busy the past few days. I received a card from my Aunt Pat, one from the Colorado team and one from the upper management team (this includes the various center managers, different department heads, directors and the VP of NAD). These people look at weighty issues like improving sales, improving processes, training, customer retention, etc., and they took the time to sign a card among their other tasks at this meeting. I also opened a present from my Joy Box. This time it was a bottle of sunless tanner, because even though I'm supposed to avoid the sun, nothing says I can't have the healthy glow of a tan. Thanks again Debbie; your box of surprises has held out well. I also got an e-card from Dorothy who admonished me to think of myself as a fluffy sheep instead of a toad. Dorothy can always be counted on for her wisdom.
Tomorrow is the Relay for Life and I'm looking forward to seeing everyone and taking part. Here's hoping my cold goes away overnight along with the clouds and rain.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
My Life as a Toad
The Hero doesn't always have fun. Sure there is the thrill of the chase, the feeling that he's pitching a battle against evil, but there's also the day the wizard hits him with a fireball and he turns into a toad. For the last two days I felt and somewhat resembled a toad, or someone dressed in one of Hollywood's fat suits. Fortunately I'm feeling more like myself today and good enough to whine about it.
In addition to tolerable aches and pains, I have been bloated like a common frog and looked like I was in mid-croak. My neck was swollen, my face and my hands -- I was like a giant puffball. I know fluid retention is listed as a side-effect of one of the drugs...but this is just silly.
In addition I was running a low-grade fever yesterday, which meant I was constantly monitoring it to make sure it didn't reach the magic 38C. That's the point at which have to call the Cancer Center and possibly go to emergency because it means I may have an infection. It's more worrisome 10 to 14 days after treatment because that's when my white blood cells are at their lowest and can't fight infection effectively.
The Celebrex did its job, more or less. Overall the aches were tolerable, although I was still aching yesterday. Today is much better and I've been outdoors already to pick my spinach, which is bolting in the heat.
I did go out for a drive with Rob yesterday. He had to go across the city on a work errand. We stopped for ice cream (which never fails to improve my mood). We also stopped for mail on the way back and there were cards from Aunt Al, Aunt Myrtle and from Beth, Linda, Debbie and Eileen from the local office.
This weekend coming is the Relay for Life and the office has two teams entered. I received an email yesterday indicating the teams have raised $3,075 for the event. I hope everyone is proud of their accomplishment. I'm planning on going for part of the evening, but don't think I'll have the wherewithal to stay for the entire event, at least not this year. I'm looking forward to seeing my colleagues and hanging out. Cross your fingers for the weather, right now it's calling for rain, which could be a bit of a damper on the event.
Today is election day. Rob and I will head out to the polls in a little while and cast our ballots. Hopefully the sunshine today helps voter turnout. Then who knows, maybe we'll stop somewhere for ice cream -- because ice cream is good for the spirit.
In addition to tolerable aches and pains, I have been bloated like a common frog and looked like I was in mid-croak. My neck was swollen, my face and my hands -- I was like a giant puffball. I know fluid retention is listed as a side-effect of one of the drugs...but this is just silly.
In addition I was running a low-grade fever yesterday, which meant I was constantly monitoring it to make sure it didn't reach the magic 38C. That's the point at which have to call the Cancer Center and possibly go to emergency because it means I may have an infection. It's more worrisome 10 to 14 days after treatment because that's when my white blood cells are at their lowest and can't fight infection effectively.
The Celebrex did its job, more or less. Overall the aches were tolerable, although I was still aching yesterday. Today is much better and I've been outdoors already to pick my spinach, which is bolting in the heat.
I did go out for a drive with Rob yesterday. He had to go across the city on a work errand. We stopped for ice cream (which never fails to improve my mood). We also stopped for mail on the way back and there were cards from Aunt Al, Aunt Myrtle and from Beth, Linda, Debbie and Eileen from the local office.
This weekend coming is the Relay for Life and the office has two teams entered. I received an email yesterday indicating the teams have raised $3,075 for the event. I hope everyone is proud of their accomplishment. I'm planning on going for part of the evening, but don't think I'll have the wherewithal to stay for the entire event, at least not this year. I'm looking forward to seeing my colleagues and hanging out. Cross your fingers for the weather, right now it's calling for rain, which could be a bit of a damper on the event.
Today is election day. Rob and I will head out to the polls in a little while and cast our ballots. Hopefully the sunshine today helps voter turnout. Then who knows, maybe we'll stop somewhere for ice cream -- because ice cream is good for the spirit.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Holding My Own
The side-effects of treatment this time are tolerable. I've been taking the anti-inflammatory drug Celebrex to control the aches and pains, and overall it is working. My heels and knees have been somewhat achey, but not too bad. It does raise the question of what to wear on my feet the weekend of June 27, Rebecca's wedding. I have a feeling high heel shoes will not be an option for me. I guess I'll have to go look for something low and flat (and cushioned).
The other side-effect from treatment, which seems to have no rhyme nor reason, is the hot flashes and subsequent chills I get in the night. I was told in general I could experience these menopausal-type symptoms and last night was one of those nights where I woke up feeling far too warm to sleep and the shivering because I was too cold. I guess this is what is in store for me down the road.
Overall, I'm doing well, although I had hoped the aches would be unnoticeable (one can always hope, right?). Rob and I went for a drive yesterday and got groceries last night. He's now waiting for our friend Kevin and the boys are going to the golf course for the afternoon. I think I'll just curl up and read.
The other side-effect from treatment, which seems to have no rhyme nor reason, is the hot flashes and subsequent chills I get in the night. I was told in general I could experience these menopausal-type symptoms and last night was one of those nights where I woke up feeling far too warm to sleep and the shivering because I was too cold. I guess this is what is in store for me down the road.
Overall, I'm doing well, although I had hoped the aches would be unnoticeable (one can always hope, right?). Rob and I went for a drive yesterday and got groceries last night. He's now waiting for our friend Kevin and the boys are going to the golf course for the afternoon. I think I'll just curl up and read.
Friday, June 5, 2009
More from a Mentor
In the Hero's Journey the role of the mentor cannot be understated. These characters provide encouragement, strength, guidance and inspiration. I received a card in yesterday's mail from Kathy E, a person I consider to be one of my personal mentors; her notes are always inspiring and positive.
Kathy's latest card included a photo of herself and her friend Barb. Unfortunately I don't have a scanner so I can't share it. These incredible women took part in the Digby Relay for Life in 2007. I know I've mentioned Kathy is a cancer survivor. Her friend is also, and Kathy provided a few details I hope she doesn't mind me sharing. As I said these women serve as an incredible inspiration for anyone facing adversity.
In 1979 Kathy was diagnosed with Stage 2 cervical cancer at the age of 36. She had a radical hysterectomy and lymph nodes removed. The surgery was so successful she didn't need any other treatment. Twenty years later, in 1999 she was diagnosed with early stage colon cancer. Again, following a successful surgery she was declared cancer-free without any other treatment required.
Kathy's friend Barb A has to be a woman of incredible strength. She has survived not only breast cancer, but also lung cancer, thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer and for the past six years she has been living with and fighting non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It takes real strength and courage to continue an ongoing battle like that.
Throughout my journey I have found inspiration and hope in many places, and that support as well as the energy and prayers continue to provide a strong foundation from which to battle this disease. So far I'm still feeling good after round five. I took my Celebrex this morning and hope it heads off any ill effects before they occur. I want to be energized by next weekend as I'm planning on take part in the Lower Sackville Relay for Life with one of the two teams entered from my workplace.
Kathy's latest card included a photo of herself and her friend Barb. Unfortunately I don't have a scanner so I can't share it. These incredible women took part in the Digby Relay for Life in 2007. I know I've mentioned Kathy is a cancer survivor. Her friend is also, and Kathy provided a few details I hope she doesn't mind me sharing. As I said these women serve as an incredible inspiration for anyone facing adversity.
In 1979 Kathy was diagnosed with Stage 2 cervical cancer at the age of 36. She had a radical hysterectomy and lymph nodes removed. The surgery was so successful she didn't need any other treatment. Twenty years later, in 1999 she was diagnosed with early stage colon cancer. Again, following a successful surgery she was declared cancer-free without any other treatment required.
Kathy's friend Barb A has to be a woman of incredible strength. She has survived not only breast cancer, but also lung cancer, thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer and for the past six years she has been living with and fighting non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It takes real strength and courage to continue an ongoing battle like that.
Throughout my journey I have found inspiration and hope in many places, and that support as well as the energy and prayers continue to provide a strong foundation from which to battle this disease. So far I'm still feeling good after round five. I took my Celebrex this morning and hope it heads off any ill effects before they occur. I want to be energized by next weekend as I'm planning on take part in the Lower Sackville Relay for Life with one of the two teams entered from my workplace.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Round Five -- Done!
The countdown is truly on. This morning was round five of six. By the end of this month I'll be through the second phase of this particular journey (if you count all the testing beforehand as Phase I).
My treatment was at 9 a.m. but I was up at 6 a.m. to take dose number two of the requisite Decadron. I had to take one dose before bed last night and another at 8 a.m. This is all so I don't have a horrible allergic reaction to the chemo drugs. However, I rarely sleep well the night before chemo, so I'm thinking a nap is in order this afternoon.
I'll take my Celebrex tomorrow and hopefully won't encounter the same aches and pains I had after the last treatment.
I took advantage of both the weather and the fact that I was at a high point in terms of energy yesterday. I mowed the back yard, did a little weeding and played nine holes of golf with Rob (actually I played eight). I took a golf workshop a few years ago and we were told because we're beginners we should play like we're 10 -- for the fun of it. As a result I don't keep score, if I don't like where my ball landed I move it, and if don't feel like playing a hole I skip it. Rob doesn't care one way or another, he's just glad I'm willing to go with him. Plus, playing my way eliminates a lot of the frustration and means I'll probably play again.
My treatment was at 9 a.m. but I was up at 6 a.m. to take dose number two of the requisite Decadron. I had to take one dose before bed last night and another at 8 a.m. This is all so I don't have a horrible allergic reaction to the chemo drugs. However, I rarely sleep well the night before chemo, so I'm thinking a nap is in order this afternoon.
I'll take my Celebrex tomorrow and hopefully won't encounter the same aches and pains I had after the last treatment.
I took advantage of both the weather and the fact that I was at a high point in terms of energy yesterday. I mowed the back yard, did a little weeding and played nine holes of golf with Rob (actually I played eight). I took a golf workshop a few years ago and we were told because we're beginners we should play like we're 10 -- for the fun of it. As a result I don't keep score, if I don't like where my ball landed I move it, and if don't feel like playing a hole I skip it. Rob doesn't care one way or another, he's just glad I'm willing to go with him. Plus, playing my way eliminates a lot of the frustration and means I'll probably play again.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Too Windy for My Hat
So, yesterday afternoon I went to the grocery store for dog food and milk. It was so windy as I was getting out of the car a gust took my ball cap and blew into the next row of cars. Picture me ducking between cars to try to catch it before the next gust of wind. I don't mind my bald head, I'm actually quite used to it now and rarely wear anything on it when I'm home...but the poor woman who was getting out of her car in the row where my hat had landed did a double-take. The sad part is not only did this happen on the my way into the grocery store, but also on the way out again.
Rob and I went for ice cream last night. When I got back there was a message on my phone. Mike B, the VP of NAD had called to wish me well etc. I work for a great company where people are treated as individuals and not just some cog in the machine. I've had tremendous support and positive energy from various levels from manament to hourly staff.
I went for blood work this morning and because I didn't have a doctor's appointment I went to the hospital in Musquodoboit Harbour, a nearby village. I've gotten spoiled by going into the Cancer Center for this task. It was a little over an hour from the time I went through the doors of the hospital to the time I left again. It rarely ever takes more than 20 minutes at the Cancer Center. It wouldn't normally be a concern but I wanted to rush home to vacuum and prep lunch because my cousin Peggy and her daughter Sam were coming for lunch. It was a lovely visit too.
Like many of my visitors these days, they came with gifts -- a funny book, a prosperity starfish (a gorgeous silver starfish necklace with sparkles -- the five points represent wishes for health, prosperity, happiness, friendship and wealth) as well as a little glass cat Sam picked out. I made us salad with cold salmon, roasted red pepper bruschetta and rhubarb crisp. Cole loved having visitors, especially when Sam took him outside to play. We had a great visit full of laughs. Another cousin, Helen, was supposed to come but unfortunately she's sick with a cold and opted not to bring it to me. Helen, hope you're feeling better. Now Peg knows where I live, so we'll have other visits soon.
Like so many others, as Peg was leaving she said "You look good, you still have your sparkle." It always surprises me when someone says that. I guess, unlike many people receiving chemo treatments, I haven't lost a lot of weight or developed a gaunt appearance. Of course the drugs and treatments today are much improved compared to even a decade ago, and aside from cancer I'm healthy and young (relatively). Of course it's easy to stay positive when you have the support that I've had since the beginning of this journey.
Rob and I went for ice cream last night. When I got back there was a message on my phone. Mike B, the VP of NAD had called to wish me well etc. I work for a great company where people are treated as individuals and not just some cog in the machine. I've had tremendous support and positive energy from various levels from manament to hourly staff.
I went for blood work this morning and because I didn't have a doctor's appointment I went to the hospital in Musquodoboit Harbour, a nearby village. I've gotten spoiled by going into the Cancer Center for this task. It was a little over an hour from the time I went through the doors of the hospital to the time I left again. It rarely ever takes more than 20 minutes at the Cancer Center. It wouldn't normally be a concern but I wanted to rush home to vacuum and prep lunch because my cousin Peggy and her daughter Sam were coming for lunch. It was a lovely visit too.
Like many of my visitors these days, they came with gifts -- a funny book, a prosperity starfish (a gorgeous silver starfish necklace with sparkles -- the five points represent wishes for health, prosperity, happiness, friendship and wealth) as well as a little glass cat Sam picked out. I made us salad with cold salmon, roasted red pepper bruschetta and rhubarb crisp. Cole loved having visitors, especially when Sam took him outside to play. We had a great visit full of laughs. Another cousin, Helen, was supposed to come but unfortunately she's sick with a cold and opted not to bring it to me. Helen, hope you're feeling better. Now Peg knows where I live, so we'll have other visits soon.
Like so many others, as Peg was leaving she said "You look good, you still have your sparkle." It always surprises me when someone says that. I guess, unlike many people receiving chemo treatments, I haven't lost a lot of weight or developed a gaunt appearance. Of course the drugs and treatments today are much improved compared to even a decade ago, and aside from cancer I'm healthy and young (relatively). Of course it's easy to stay positive when you have the support that I've had since the beginning of this journey.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Testing Results
I finally heard back from the genetic clinic. They have the results of my genetic testing, but like all good stories we have to build a sense of anticipation and we won't get the analysis until June 23, the earliest appointment I could get. The good news is I'll have an appointment at the genetic clinic in the morning and my regular appointment with my oncologist in the afternoon and we can discuss the results and what they mean.
This is my best week and I took advantage of feeling well over the weekend. Yesterday Rob and I took the dogs for a hike and then went to the driving range to hit a few golf balls. We're hoping to get in a nine-hole round of golf sometime before chemo on Thursday. I also mowed the front lawn which was getting a little shaggy looking.
Wally, Jen and the kids were out on Saturday for supper. I made ham and Rob made his delicious garlic mashed potatoes.
Friday's mail contained a card from the Southville Church of Christ.
Tomorrow or Wednesday I need to go for blood work. Not having an appointment with the oncologist is throwing me off. Thursday is round five of chemo. In general June is shaping up as a busy month. The Relay for Life is June 12, Rob has a fishing weekend with Dave and Ian, I have two rounds of chemo, doctors appointments, plus there is Father's Day, Jen's birthday and Reba's wedding. Before you know it the month will be gone and we'll be into July.
This is my best week and I took advantage of feeling well over the weekend. Yesterday Rob and I took the dogs for a hike and then went to the driving range to hit a few golf balls. We're hoping to get in a nine-hole round of golf sometime before chemo on Thursday. I also mowed the front lawn which was getting a little shaggy looking.
Wally, Jen and the kids were out on Saturday for supper. I made ham and Rob made his delicious garlic mashed potatoes.
Friday's mail contained a card from the Southville Church of Christ.
Tomorrow or Wednesday I need to go for blood work. Not having an appointment with the oncologist is throwing me off. Thursday is round five of chemo. In general June is shaping up as a busy month. The Relay for Life is June 12, Rob has a fishing weekend with Dave and Ian, I have two rounds of chemo, doctors appointments, plus there is Father's Day, Jen's birthday and Reba's wedding. Before you know it the month will be gone and we'll be into July.
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