September 2012 Trip to CTCA

Amazing how fast a month goes by!! Robbin and I went back to CTCA for my second round of chemo on September 7th. When we arrived at the hospital at 7:30am, I had my port accessed, gave blood, we went to breakfast and then the doctor appointment. I love my doctor. She spends at least 20 minutes with us explaining everything in detail!! You just can't find a better doctor than her!! The fist chemo that I got gave me several side affects.....swelling throat, hives, huge pimples, more neuropathy, headache that lasted 3 days,and bad body aches for most of the month. The doctor was very concerned about these and did say that these are not good for me but it is part of going through this chemo. She felt that if I could handle it she would like to see me have another month of the same chemo to see if my body will respond to it a little easier. It is up to me to make that decision and after much discussing with the doctor, Robbin and I thought it would be worth trying it for another month. The other option is to start on a pill that will work like a non hormone. I have been on a couple of these and they are much nicer to except but with my cancer markers going up I just felt like I wanted to get on top of the growth and after 6 treatments I can start on the pills. I need much prayer that my body will except this chemo so that I can continue it for 4 more treatments. I also am having the xgiva shot to help with the bone healing and pain. So I got a double dose of poison. We hope and pray that all of this will help stop the growth for another year and I can have some quality of life. It doesn't seem like much to give up 6 months for one year!!! Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers along this journey!! My daughters have been very helpful after I get home. This is a very difficult time for Robbin and the girls!! The support from you is so needed and appreciated!! While Gwyn goes through the struggle with Chemo, I sometimes feel very helpless and unsure of what I am supposed to do for her. As the side effects take a huge toll physically, they tear her down emotionally. I try to maintain a positive and supportive attitude, but it becomes a challenge. She and I BOTH need the help to cope with the stress involved with treating and living with this disease. Family and friends play a crucial role in the treatment of the mind and soul. Last year when she went through Chemo, we really didn't know what to expect. And since this one is a different type, we have to wait and see how she reacts as the medication accumulates. I would like to ask everyone to pick up the phone and check on her and talk to her about different things. Keep her mind occupied and she does much better!!! I have to say a huge thank you to our girls and Gwyn's sewing friends. Please continue to call and stop by (we need that). Thank You to all!!!