Medical Update
I met with my doctor yesterday. She wanted to discuss all the side effects I've been having from the chemo and maybe decide to stop chemo early. The doctor's biggest concern is neuropathy (numbness) I've been having in my hands and feet. It is from the chemo drug Taxol. The doctor is concerned how bad it is because it can be permanent. Because I am 45 she doesn't think it's a benefit for me to have this condition at an early age. Yeah, the doctor thinks I'm still young!! After this chemo I feel like I've aged 20 years. To make a long story short, we decided to continue the chemo. I wasn't comfortable stopping it early. She had told me other drugs didn't have as successful clinical trials as the Taxol did. The dosage will be reduced by only 10% and she has taken me off work. I work at a school kitchen and I am on my feet 4 hours a day. By the end of work my feet are burning and then I'm not very productive at home. I'm am really happy with our decisions. So I had chemo yesterday and I only have one chemo treatment left. It's been a long journey, I've had 19 weeks of chemo, so finally only have one left feels great. Two weeks off work will be great and hopefully give me some energy back. I wish I had taken off work earlier. I didn't want to except I couldn't do it, but now I'm glad I okay with not working. I knew I needed the rest. Radiation will start in mid-May, but I don't know exactly when. Now that I'm home and off my feet I'll probably be on DS a lot more getting to know you.
Replies
My God, you are only 45 years old and have been through so much! My heart aches for you. I can not imagine having cancer. Losing my mom to that terrible disease broke my heart. Sounds like you have a strong will to live. I hope you become healthy again and go into remission soon~Peace,Katie
The neuropathy can be bad and it really lasts, my hands are okay now but my feet still kill me. glad to hear you\'ve only got one left. It\'s a long road but you have to believe it will be worth it in the end. I\'m just done my radiation and ask about the possible side effects of it too as they can be nasty. Hope you are feeling alright right now. Love and hugs Cathy