Treatment today

It was quite the ordeal this morning at my pre chemo evaluation.  Since there had been so many medical problems between my last treatment and now, it took a long time for the nurse to debrief me.  They also checked one more time to make sure I didn't have a urinary tract infection.  My blood pressure was elevated today, so that was a concern.  They are thinking that since I had been on a steroid for my flu shot reaction and then immediately started my pre-chemo steroid , that maybe the multiple steroids plus my stress is elevating my blood pressure.  The first time they took it it was in the 140's over 100.  (They just took it again and it was 141/88, so it has gone down!  My last was 136/83.  Relief!)

Anyway, I had to explain all of my medical issues AGAIN to the Oncology doctor.  I saw the doctor 1 1/2 hr. after my scheduled appointment.  He told me to watch the area where I had had my lumpectomy to make sure it doesn't get infected.  He said that there is quite a bit of scar tissue and fluid still in the area.  I told him that the fluid in the area has greatly decreased, but fluid does still collect.  I also explained that I am now able to sleep in my own bed again instead of sleeping on the sofa propped up by pillows.  (I slept on the sofa like that for three months!  I guess Ryan and I invested in a good sofa almost 9 years ago.)

 The doctor then asked if I felt well enough for treatment.  I told him YES!  (If I didn't have my treatment today I wouldn't be able to get my treatment for two more weeks.  That would push every thing back by two weeks.  If I didn't really feel good I wouldn't have taken my treatment today, but Ryan and I agreed that I was well enough for treatment.)  The nurses all told me that the next time I have something strange happen I should just come in to Oncology and then they will contact the Oncology doctor directly.  They felt awful that I had been having so many problems and not getting the answers I needed.  The doctor also told me to call him  in Sioux City if I ever have another problem.  He does not want me to suffer.  Everyone stressed how important it is right now to focus on my health.  (They were emphatic that I need to take it a day at a time.  I have two young children at home.  I should limit my stress as MUCH as possible and TAKE CARE of MYSELF!)

I almost forgot, today is my 1/2 way point for chemo!  I will only have 3 chemo treatments after today!  Then I will have two weeks off and then 6 weeks of radiation.

Meal Train