I had to arrive at MDA for 7:30 am yesterday to have blood work done. My son, Nick, is such a trooper.. he stayed with me the night before so we could go together and then followed me through all the various appointments throughout the day, making sure that I didn't get lost and wander the hospital halls for all of eternity!
It is standard procedure to have blood tested the day of chemo to monitor the effects of chemo and to be sure that everything is functioning as it should be (red & white blood count, liver and kidneys ...). Then you have to wait 2 hours and consult with the doctor for the results.
Between the lab and the doctor appointment, I went to the research department for more testing. I have agreed to contribute to a study to monitor side effects of the specific type of chemo which I am taking. One of the most scary side effects for me is the loss of feeling and/or extreme sensitivity to cold in hands and feet, as this can directly effect my ability to play guitar. The tests include basic motor skills (timed peg board) and sensitivity tests to pressure, sharp, and cold. Without looking, I have to tell them what I am sensing. It is interesting to see how they conduct the testing and has made me much more aware. Also the ladies doing the research are really nice people... so it's a joy to work with them.
After the research testing, I met with Dr. Garrett. I get the feeling that I provide his dry sense of humor with a fresh source of material! He did ask genuinely about my experience at the Integrative Medicine clinic and I was able to tell him that I found it extremely helpful. It seems to have gotten his interest and may be a resource that he was honestly unaware of previously.
We reviewed the side effects that I experienced with my first round of chemo.. and then the blood work. "No chemo today!" He said that my white blood count was too low and that I would have to wait a week for the next treatment. I was very surprised, as I have been feeling really good the last few days, and I asked him why my count was so low .... "Probably all that yoga stuff..." was his dry reply!!
Then he explained that we just might have to reduce the dosage of the chemo. Every person's body responds differently to treatment and we just had to adjust and find the right dosage. He assured me that this would not affect the timeline.
So the good news of the day.. I should be able to have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day... my next chemo will be the day AFTER!!
Today I will spend the day sorting and packing and trying to bring a little order to my chaotic life!! Gordon went to stay on the boat for the weekend... he is a smart man!
Sia
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