Thursday, September 29, 2016

End of September Update

I have been quiet lately on this blog thing and there has been one reason for that. Fatigue. I wake up when close to 9am most days this week, but if my body needs the rest then that is what I will do.

I did have chemo last week, and my next one isn't until October 10th. The long break is mostly due to the fact my doctor is changing chemo-clinic days. By the time I go back in for chemo I will have celebrated my birthday and anniversary and this year will be a low-key for sure. I typically love any sort of celebrations because I know how important these things are in life.

A few weeks ago I had a bit more energy and I got out and did a few things. Leo and I went to the Iowa v. North Dakota football game and had a great time! I sad down most of the game, and minimized my walking around the stadium. We attended an event in North Liberty for the Children's Cancer Connection where I donated some scarves for auction

I am still spending a lot of time with my parents, husband, and dogs during the day. They are helping with chores, meals, etc. I need them more than ever before as the chemo builds up and the fatigue has gotten worse. I am thankful for their love, help, and commitment to my treatment. It's hard, but I am so thankful we have each other.
My Lifeline- dogs, family friends!

Truthfully, it has been emotionally challenging as of late. You can only do so much to pull yourself up when you are fatigued. I do the best that I can to stay optimistic, but when you are in the thick of it, it usually gets worse before you can get better. Thankfully, my back pain has mostly been under control lately- although taking pills on a regular basis for that.

So far I have had 8 of 12 chemo treatments, and after the 9th one will have another scan to see how the progress is going. After the 12, I will be on a series of maintenance treatment. I am still learning things as we go.