Over the Hump

I made it through treatment #6 and I am looking forward with only 2 remaining.  This week the Taxol was not as bad or at least I have not been experiencing neuropathy.  I definitely have metal mouth, tiredness and nausea but I am able to do light exercise and my appetite has been really good.  I still love the thought of a good old hamburger but salad and vegies are a crucial part of my diet!

On piece of good news from this last treatment - my red blood count was up slightly and I did not need to have an infusion of iron nor a transfusion!

Rick married a young couple from our ward last night (Rachel Fisher and Cody Clinger) and here is a picture of us at the wedding.

Here is a picture of Rick with Cody and Rachel during the ceremony.

My sister Dee and her husband Harold are coming to stay with us this week.  It has been so fun to have sisters, a daughter and friends come to spend time with us and to help out with meals, etc.  I am looking forward to November when my treatments will be complete but I am also enjoying this summer at home with friends and family!

Spinderella and After

My daughter Jacqueline sent me an email saying that I needed to get some postings on my blog.  I am so sorry that I have been so neglectful.  I can't say that I have been super busy because usually there is nothing on my calendar unless it is a bi-weekly treatment or fluid.  

I was able to ride in Spinderella on June 15 and rode 25 miles.  One of the best parts of the ride were the fellow riders who would take the time to ride with me and to encourage me about my progress.  I also had my husband close by in our car so that he could keep an eye on me and he was able to make sure that I did not get over tired.

After the ride.

A photo shot with Lorie Murray when we picked up our packets.

The first four of my chemo treatments were completed on June 25th and I was really happy to be moving on to the next set of treatments.  Nausea had been the most difficult side effect of the treatments and it was present pretty much 24/7.  On July 9, I started a series of four treatment of Taxol.  I was warned by one of the PA's that Taxol would not be easier but it would be different.  I came to realize that difference the very next day.  Any callouses or rough spots on my feet had become super sensitive from the prior chemo.  A possible side effect from the Taxol is neuropathy and my feet and hands were extremely effected with redness, swelling, tingling, etc.  Steph Victor and I were talking on the phone on July 11th and I just broke down in tears.  I knew that there were side effects but for some reason I was not prepared for the pain and inability to walk on my feet.  Fortunately Steph took me for fluid, gave me an awesome foot massage and took me to lunch afterwards.  When I got home, Joan Hansen had sent me a darling teddy bear and a box of delicious chocolates!  I don't know how I am so lucky to have such wonderful friends and family!  You are all fabulous!!!!

I don't remember having a stuffed animal before and I have really been enjoying this cute pink teddy!

Rick and I had signed up to participate in the Joint Jaunt on July 13 - he was doing a 10K run and I was doing a 5K walk.  We really didn't know if I would be able to participate because of the neuropathy .  Fortunately, Steph's massage along with several more and Melagel took the swelling and pain down so that I was able to do the walk.  I took my time but I came in 8th out of 14 in my age group.  The Joint Jaunt was to honor participants with full joint replacements so I fit right in with my two miracle hips. 

My next treatment is scheduled for Tuesday (5 of 8).  My biggest health problem is anemia due to a low red blood cell count.  If my count continues to drop then I will probably receive either an iron infusion or a transfusion.  The anemia could also push the treatments back one week.  I will let you know how things go.