This week I'm off chemo, which is a double-edged sword because I like the fact that I'm actively doing something to kill the tumor and its brethren, but it was a rough ride because it decimated my platelet counts. It got so bad that when I asked if I could ride my bike or try a light jog the nurses furrowed their brows, and waggled their fingers at me indicating that any activity that increases my blood pressure could cause an internal bleed, which is extremely risky with my current counts.
Needless to say, I also caught a cold about 3 weeks ago, and it's been keeping me company thus far. In addition to having low platelets, my white blood cell counts have also been impacted, and my immune system is weaker. It's taking forever to kick this thing.
Another lovely side effect involves the return of the neuropathy in my toes. It's like walking on pins and needles. I keep feeling like the protagonist from a children's book of mine, "The Pobble Who Has No Toes". I won't spoil the ending for you in case you read it. The illustrated version was the one I had. Awesome.
There are other things going on too, but we don't need to delve into such topics. I don't mean for this to be a bitch session, rather I wanted to have some sort of record or journal of what was going on with me at this time when I look back.
I'm trying to use this week to kick this cold and get my platelets back up because it looks like I actually am going to resume chemo next week. I'll go in the day after Christmas to start my second cycle. Shortly after that I go back for the scan that will be used to determine if I'm good to go for the procedure that'll involve taking out the tumor and re-plumbing my innards.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again, this shit has really put things into perspective. All I want for Christmas is a good scan and a green light for surgery. Let me make 2013 the year I beat this shit. Amen.
That's my prayer for you too!
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