I don’t understand why I’m not sleeping well. I don’t think my tea has THAT much caffeine. But I went to bed about 9:00PM after taking a couple of PCs (Packer Candy). Then I toss, and turn, and end up thinking a lot!
Last night I thought about the pain issue. I’m supposed to take the PCs ‘as necessary.’ The only way to determine “necessity” is to actually feel pain, right. So, instead of taking the two PCs I would normally have at my 2:00AM feeding, I took one.
Remarkably, I dropped off to sleep and a rather vivid dream that I felt that I have had before. You ever get those?
Did the same thing at 6:00AM with the same results. Different dream, though.
By 10:00, I was starting to feel stomach pain, so I went back to a double dose. But by then, I was still pretty tuckered. I’ve picked all the branches off the lawn, but haven’t gotten up the gumption to actually mow it. Maybe later today.
The doc yesterday was pleased with my progress, but informs me that my next round of chemo will be cut by 20%. So, I should feel somewhat better. And I’ll be going into it better hydrated and fed. I’m actually eating solid food.
Ben and I ran out to Fazoli’s for a quick lunch yesterday to celebrate. I had the Grilled Chicken Panini. It was pretty good. I regretted the Italian Ice, though; too acidy!
My doc took me off the antibiotic because my WBCs were way up; but he confused me with his reasoning. He said they were cutting my course of treatment short because they don’t want to develop a Levaquin-resistant organism. Historically, and logically, you would want to take the full course of treatment to kill all the bad organisms in the body, eliminating any survivors that might develop resistance. Talk about shaking my confidence….
I may have to get a tattoo. Seems the vein in my left hand, although looking like a “good” vein for use actually has a “knot” in it, making a lot of in and out, side to side, playing with the needle just to draw blood. I still have a bulge there today. So I’ll get a Do Not Use tattoo over that vein! Or not.
Other than that, I have to start documenting actual food consumption. And I want to continue the first post about how this all got started. I still don’t think Amy, the nutritionist, and the doctor understand the pain issue surrounding the eating issue. But you’ll see it here, and then I’ll print it out for their consumption.
Later.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Friday, September 21, 2007
A New Day; A Great Day!
I’m up to 178 pounds this AM; three pounds above recent rock bottom. ‘Course, that’s after a toasted cheese/scrambled egg sandwich that I ate in a normal amount of time. Not like a coyote returning to road kill for three days in a row. I ate it all in one sitting!
But, my veins are showing and I’m sniffling a little, so I know that I’m still hydrated, which has been a struggle here lately.
BTW, it’s nice having a roommate again. I got to swipe a small glass of Ben’s Orange Juice, just to try! See, for me to do this alone, I’d have to spend at least a buck, buck and a half, for a small amount just to try. And then, when I couldn’t tolerate it, I’d have to throw it all away.
This morning before I started my sandwich, the small glass of OJ tasted pretty good, some small amount of stinging in the back of the throat. After I finished my sandwich was another story. But it tastes so good that I’m determined to finish it by very small sips.
Thanks, Ben!
And, it’s not as if I didn’t bring anything to the table. I stopped by Mayflower yesterday afternoon and ordered beef Lo-Mein noodles, chicken noodle soup, and pork fried rice to go. I ate some of everything with very little ill effects. So, I left a note for Ben to have some after he got home from work. It looks like he took me up on my offer, which is good.
Now, I realize that my Packer Candy and antibiotics support my good feelings this morning. But at least it gives me hope that I can “punch” this thing out, yet!
Amy’s gift still brings a tear to my eye. I’m going to have to mount that bag outside by my swing. Help me punch this thing and get a swing ride for free!
Speaking of Packer Candy, I’m wondering about the differences between the liquid and pill forms. Since taking the pill form, things have seemed to stabilize, a more consistent bio-availability release into the body, I’m guessing. Unless they manufactured it with some form of time-release, the liquid form would seem to be available all at once, resulting in more frequent ups and downs.
I have more thoughts but I’ll have to save them for later. I have to get ready for my labs and doctor visit today at 11:00AM.
But, my veins are showing and I’m sniffling a little, so I know that I’m still hydrated, which has been a struggle here lately.
BTW, it’s nice having a roommate again. I got to swipe a small glass of Ben’s Orange Juice, just to try! See, for me to do this alone, I’d have to spend at least a buck, buck and a half, for a small amount just to try. And then, when I couldn’t tolerate it, I’d have to throw it all away.
This morning before I started my sandwich, the small glass of OJ tasted pretty good, some small amount of stinging in the back of the throat. After I finished my sandwich was another story. But it tastes so good that I’m determined to finish it by very small sips.
Thanks, Ben!
And, it’s not as if I didn’t bring anything to the table. I stopped by Mayflower yesterday afternoon and ordered beef Lo-Mein noodles, chicken noodle soup, and pork fried rice to go. I ate some of everything with very little ill effects. So, I left a note for Ben to have some after he got home from work. It looks like he took me up on my offer, which is good.
Now, I realize that my Packer Candy and antibiotics support my good feelings this morning. But at least it gives me hope that I can “punch” this thing out, yet!
Amy’s gift still brings a tear to my eye. I’m going to have to mount that bag outside by my swing. Help me punch this thing and get a swing ride for free!
Speaking of Packer Candy, I’m wondering about the differences between the liquid and pill forms. Since taking the pill form, things have seemed to stabilize, a more consistent bio-availability release into the body, I’m guessing. Unless they manufactured it with some form of time-release, the liquid form would seem to be available all at once, resulting in more frequent ups and downs.
I have more thoughts but I’ll have to save them for later. I have to get ready for my labs and doctor visit today at 11:00AM.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
In The Mail
I got a package in the mail today. There was just one item in the package, a genuine EverLast punching bag. Well, take a look at it!
Now, in case you can't read the labels on the punching bag, let me list them for you:
Chemo,
Surgery,
Cancer,
Liquid Diet,
Difficulty Swallowing,
Weight Loss,
Heartburn,
Pain with swallowing,
Inability to swallow solid foods,
Food sticking in esophagus.
Then a couple of pictures of Esophageal Cancer, a nasty looking tumor, and the Upper Digestive Tract.
What can a father possibly say to a daughter who brings laughter to his lips while she brings a tear to his eye that is more heartfelt than "Thank You, mi hija!"
Now I have to go figure out where to hang it!
Comment Replies.
I see that I go off and get almost nine hours of sleep and all heck breaks out on my blog comments. LOL!
Rather than addressing them individually, I’d like to address them here.
I did sleep pretty well last night. I am still tired though. There were times in the past when I would lay half awake between my 2:00AM and 6:00AM meds, listening to my very own internal “white noise generator.” A lot of that seems to have gone away. It seemed like it lasted only one hour or so last night.
So, let’s run out to the comments on “Sticky Schedule.”
Amy, let’s do your Shrek marathon when you come home. You guys have me all curious now about the comparisons. How does flatulence compare to “wit and charm?” I could see a comparison with flatulence and onions! (I miss my stir-fried onions and scrambled eggs for breakfast, *sniff, sniff*) But it sounds like Amy understood the reference, so I guess I’ll just have to wait for the movie. You do have me very curious here, Robin.
And, I can confess to understanding the reference to being somewhat of a loner and a recluse, but I still look for human companionship as evidenced by this blog. My sincere thanks to everyone participating in it.
I’ve always been proud of the fact that I can’t recall a single incident where my kids have had to storm off and slam the door between them and their father, severing communication for even a short while. I prefer to communicate; something that ogres are not inclined to do. So thank you for that, Amy.
How do I describe Nettie? How DO I describe Nettie? As one Browncoat, Mal Reynolds, stated, "You can't open the book of my life, and jump in the middle." But, I’ll let you in for a peek.
There once was a local forum that I frequented, more or less under my real name. This forum was known for quite some time as a place where one could engage in conversation, sometimes spirited conversation, but always civilized conversation. But, as Rawley used to say, “Things change.” That’s another story, however.
There was this one forumite, who, while we seldom commented on the same subjects, I had plenty of opportunity to read her comments and really enjoyed her style.
Years later, on another local forum, under a different name, I did get the chance to discuss issues with another forumite whose familiar style I also enjoyed. While discussing some things off-forum, she mentioned having been on the original forum under a different name. It didn’t take me long to figure out who she was!
Now, most of you know that I don’t usually kiss and tell—another Browncoat line, “So there IS kissing involved.”—but Nettie and I have met only once. She happened to get over this way with her daughter, son, and grandson. After a couple of hours talking with her and her family at a local McD’s, I felt like I was leaving family when they left.
And the “kissing” involved her grandson, who had to kiss me when we parted. I was deeply touched.
One of Nettie’s sig lines runs this way, “"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." That line says a lot about Nettie. When she takes a position, you know that it’s because, for her, it’s the right thing to do. Not because it’s expedient, not because other people think so, but because she thinks so!
Now, we don’t always agree, but that doesn’t matter. I respect and admire her, and the positions she takes. Most folks I can say that about I have had a personal relationship with. Nettie gets to be the exception; for us, we’ve communicated primarily on-line. She once mentioned that it is rare that we can meet someone online and connect as well as we have.
I value her friendship, and despite the pain that this situation might cause her, there was no way I could go through this without sharing it with Nettie. From her sense of humor and her intelligence, I think that you can see why.
Now, for the Browncoats reference; years ago, Fox ran a show for one season called Firefly. I remember I actually did get to see some scenes from the TV show while it was on when Amy was home for Christmas. But without any reference, it was just more TV trash; until it started making a revival on DVD via referrals over the Internet. It became a cult phenomenon.
I brought the set home one week before Ben showed up with his set one weekend, asking me if I’d heard of it. The show appeals to a certain kind of people. To my kind of people.
Kris, I am finding out that chemo isn’t fun, for a variety of reasons. BTW, the “ex-wife” thing was just to help folks like Nettie who don’t have the program listing names and relationships. As I said, I don’t usually kiss and tell so Nettie has very little info about my family, other than us proud parents talking about the kids, if you know what I mean.
As for the reasons why I’m a little “stubborn” about things like pain meds, well that goes back to childhood, and can wait for another day. But your point is taken. I wasn’t complaining about your actions, other than a bit of teasing. I was pointing out how I need to have things pointed out to me rather strongly sometimes. Which is why I’ve always liked the strong, “sassy,” women types.
As of today, my directions for dosing with Packer Candy are 1 to 2 tabs every 3-4 hours. Quite a bit different than the 1 tab every six hours I started out with. I called when it was necessary, but the level that triggers that call may very well be changing.
I did eat my toasted cheese sandwich today while Ben was still here. It was good. Ben even said tath it smelled good. But, just eating a sandwich shouldn’t cause shaking in the limbs, but I guess it was necessary to know. I may stop off for some Chinese noodles this afternoon when I’m out.
See, I’m eating more! Toasted cheese and noodles, and all in one day.
I do have some yogurt, including wonder yogurt, in the fridge, and had been eating it prior to Tuesday. Lord knows what all that bacteria was doing in there, though. I hate to get started back too soon until I know the diarrhea-thing has gone away.
And thanks, Nettie, I still do have your number. Just ask my kids, one of my faults is that I never throw anything away. But I appreciate you offer to talk. So don’t be surprised if I do take you up on it.
I’m off to get my haircut. I found out that Cisplatin might not cause me to lose my hair. See what I mean about conflicting data. So, rather than walk around getting all shaggy, I’ll get it trimmed so that it can fall out neatly trimmed. ;-)
Rather than addressing them individually, I’d like to address them here.
I did sleep pretty well last night. I am still tired though. There were times in the past when I would lay half awake between my 2:00AM and 6:00AM meds, listening to my very own internal “white noise generator.” A lot of that seems to have gone away. It seemed like it lasted only one hour or so last night.
So, let’s run out to the comments on “Sticky Schedule.”
Amy, let’s do your Shrek marathon when you come home. You guys have me all curious now about the comparisons. How does flatulence compare to “wit and charm?” I could see a comparison with flatulence and onions! (I miss my stir-fried onions and scrambled eggs for breakfast, *sniff, sniff*) But it sounds like Amy understood the reference, so I guess I’ll just have to wait for the movie. You do have me very curious here, Robin.
And, I can confess to understanding the reference to being somewhat of a loner and a recluse, but I still look for human companionship as evidenced by this blog. My sincere thanks to everyone participating in it.
I’ve always been proud of the fact that I can’t recall a single incident where my kids have had to storm off and slam the door between them and their father, severing communication for even a short while. I prefer to communicate; something that ogres are not inclined to do. So thank you for that, Amy.
How do I describe Nettie? How DO I describe Nettie? As one Browncoat, Mal Reynolds, stated, "You can't open the book of my life, and jump in the middle." But, I’ll let you in for a peek.
There once was a local forum that I frequented, more or less under my real name. This forum was known for quite some time as a place where one could engage in conversation, sometimes spirited conversation, but always civilized conversation. But, as Rawley used to say, “Things change.” That’s another story, however.
There was this one forumite, who, while we seldom commented on the same subjects, I had plenty of opportunity to read her comments and really enjoyed her style.
Years later, on another local forum, under a different name, I did get the chance to discuss issues with another forumite whose familiar style I also enjoyed. While discussing some things off-forum, she mentioned having been on the original forum under a different name. It didn’t take me long to figure out who she was!
Now, most of you know that I don’t usually kiss and tell—another Browncoat line, “So there IS kissing involved.”—but Nettie and I have met only once. She happened to get over this way with her daughter, son, and grandson. After a couple of hours talking with her and her family at a local McD’s, I felt like I was leaving family when they left.
And the “kissing” involved her grandson, who had to kiss me when we parted. I was deeply touched.
One of Nettie’s sig lines runs this way, “"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." That line says a lot about Nettie. When she takes a position, you know that it’s because, for her, it’s the right thing to do. Not because it’s expedient, not because other people think so, but because she thinks so!
Now, we don’t always agree, but that doesn’t matter. I respect and admire her, and the positions she takes. Most folks I can say that about I have had a personal relationship with. Nettie gets to be the exception; for us, we’ve communicated primarily on-line. She once mentioned that it is rare that we can meet someone online and connect as well as we have.
I value her friendship, and despite the pain that this situation might cause her, there was no way I could go through this without sharing it with Nettie. From her sense of humor and her intelligence, I think that you can see why.
Now, for the Browncoats reference; years ago, Fox ran a show for one season called Firefly. I remember I actually did get to see some scenes from the TV show while it was on when Amy was home for Christmas. But without any reference, it was just more TV trash; until it started making a revival on DVD via referrals over the Internet. It became a cult phenomenon.
I brought the set home one week before Ben showed up with his set one weekend, asking me if I’d heard of it. The show appeals to a certain kind of people. To my kind of people.
Kris, I am finding out that chemo isn’t fun, for a variety of reasons. BTW, the “ex-wife” thing was just to help folks like Nettie who don’t have the program listing names and relationships. As I said, I don’t usually kiss and tell so Nettie has very little info about my family, other than us proud parents talking about the kids, if you know what I mean.
As for the reasons why I’m a little “stubborn” about things like pain meds, well that goes back to childhood, and can wait for another day. But your point is taken. I wasn’t complaining about your actions, other than a bit of teasing. I was pointing out how I need to have things pointed out to me rather strongly sometimes. Which is why I’ve always liked the strong, “sassy,” women types.
As of today, my directions for dosing with Packer Candy are 1 to 2 tabs every 3-4 hours. Quite a bit different than the 1 tab every six hours I started out with. I called when it was necessary, but the level that triggers that call may very well be changing.
I did eat my toasted cheese sandwich today while Ben was still here. It was good. Ben even said tath it smelled good. But, just eating a sandwich shouldn’t cause shaking in the limbs, but I guess it was necessary to know. I may stop off for some Chinese noodles this afternoon when I’m out.
See, I’m eating more! Toasted cheese and noodles, and all in one day.
I do have some yogurt, including wonder yogurt, in the fridge, and had been eating it prior to Tuesday. Lord knows what all that bacteria was doing in there, though. I hate to get started back too soon until I know the diarrhea-thing has gone away.
And thanks, Nettie, I still do have your number. Just ask my kids, one of my faults is that I never throw anything away. But I appreciate you offer to talk. So don’t be surprised if I do take you up on it.
I’m off to get my haircut. I found out that Cisplatin might not cause me to lose my hair. See what I mean about conflicting data. So, rather than walk around getting all shaggy, I’ll get it trimmed so that it can fall out neatly trimmed. ;-)
On a Soapbox Again.
Toasted Cheese Sandwich - That’s what I’m looking forward to today. I picked up the bread yesterday. I’ve had the Velveeta in the fridge for years now. And I dug out my tortilla pan to do the honors of preparing my lunch.
On Tuesday, while discussing diarrhea, Nurse Diane mentioned the “BRAT” diet: Bread, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. It sounded interesting enough to try.
The handout I received gave a list of things I can do to minimize or avoid the effects of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea.
The first on the list was to drink plenty of clear fluids. OK, I wasn’t doing too well, there. Remember the 5-FU-induced mouth sores? Just the act of swallowing caused mouth irritation and pain. Even today, taking my Packer Candy religiously, it still is an irritation, but I am getting more down. I’ve had my Ensure, a cup of chocolate milk to take my meds, and I’m working on a tall glass of ice tea. I can actually see veins in my hands. And my nose is running.
So, I think we have cleared that hump!
While talking with Cuz yesterday, I hit upon the idea that if I couldn’t DRINK my fluids, there still was another way, barring the use of veins, that I could hydrate myself, if necessary. I’ll keep that one on the “back” burner for the next go-round.
Next on the list is the admonition to eat small amounts of soft bland low fiber foods frequently. Things like bananas, rice, noodles white bread skinned chicken, turkey, or mild white fish.
Thanks to Julie, I’m already making some small amount of headway with her Rice Pudding. I know that I can tolerate Ramen Noodles. So, I thought I’d try some white bread. Maybe it can help strip away the dead tissue in my throat I can feel back there. I may need to take my magic mouthwash to do it, though.
The handout cautions against greasy, fried foods (I wonder if my sandwich fits that category), raw fruits and veggies, I already know about strong spices, whole grain breads and cereals, nuts, and gas-forming foods and beverages.
So, on the one hand I’m supposed to eat low fiber foods, but on the other, I’m advised to add Benefiber to my Ensure drinks.
I think that I could easily get confused here.
At my place of employment, because of their difficulties with communication, I often accuse my management of “Management by Rumor,” as opposed to, say, “Management by Objective.” We hear rumors of what is to be done, or how things are to be done, but rarely do we, the lowly truck drivers, see documentation stating specifically how things are required. We get it filtered through the imaginations of several people before we hear about it. Although, I have to say that I find it heartening to see that some of that is changing.
I don’t have many allergies, but I will lay claim to an allergy to beer and wine. I’ve always had trouble drinking both of them, but it wasn’t until Robin was here, and while trying to share a bottle of wine that it became clear to me that I had an allergy to something in the wine. I developed wheals around my mouth, which is a definite indication of an allergic reaction.
So, I report this to my medical care providers. It never fails to worry me when a new nurse comes in and is amused about my allergy to alcohol. Now, alcohol and I get along just fine. We even have fewer problems, alcohol and I, than others seem to do. I’ve only had one serious hangover; the first one. There were mornings when I may have moved a bit slower than everyone else, but it was never an issue.
But, I don’t consider an allergy to wine an allergy to alcohol. And I’m glad they ask. But what about all the assumptions that are made, that don’t get asked about because they’re not quite so amusing as an allergy to alcohol.
Which brings me back to my “Healthcare by Internet Articles.” I find it disturbing to discover that I have to become an “armchair expert” on my own illness, while I’m not at my best, while I’m actually ill. That I can’t rely on my healthcare providers to look at what is actually going on with me, and make their recommendations based on actual fact, rather than on a host of possibilities that may occur with me.
On Tuesday, while discussing diarrhea, Nurse Diane mentioned the “BRAT” diet: Bread, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. It sounded interesting enough to try.
The handout I received gave a list of things I can do to minimize or avoid the effects of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea.
The first on the list was to drink plenty of clear fluids. OK, I wasn’t doing too well, there. Remember the 5-FU-induced mouth sores? Just the act of swallowing caused mouth irritation and pain. Even today, taking my Packer Candy religiously, it still is an irritation, but I am getting more down. I’ve had my Ensure, a cup of chocolate milk to take my meds, and I’m working on a tall glass of ice tea. I can actually see veins in my hands. And my nose is running.
So, I think we have cleared that hump!
While talking with Cuz yesterday, I hit upon the idea that if I couldn’t DRINK my fluids, there still was another way, barring the use of veins, that I could hydrate myself, if necessary. I’ll keep that one on the “back” burner for the next go-round.
Next on the list is the admonition to eat small amounts of soft bland low fiber foods frequently. Things like bananas, rice, noodles white bread skinned chicken, turkey, or mild white fish.
Thanks to Julie, I’m already making some small amount of headway with her Rice Pudding. I know that I can tolerate Ramen Noodles. So, I thought I’d try some white bread. Maybe it can help strip away the dead tissue in my throat I can feel back there. I may need to take my magic mouthwash to do it, though.
The handout cautions against greasy, fried foods (I wonder if my sandwich fits that category), raw fruits and veggies, I already know about strong spices, whole grain breads and cereals, nuts, and gas-forming foods and beverages.
So, on the one hand I’m supposed to eat low fiber foods, but on the other, I’m advised to add Benefiber to my Ensure drinks.
I think that I could easily get confused here.
At my place of employment, because of their difficulties with communication, I often accuse my management of “Management by Rumor,” as opposed to, say, “Management by Objective.” We hear rumors of what is to be done, or how things are to be done, but rarely do we, the lowly truck drivers, see documentation stating specifically how things are required. We get it filtered through the imaginations of several people before we hear about it. Although, I have to say that I find it heartening to see that some of that is changing.
I don’t have many allergies, but I will lay claim to an allergy to beer and wine. I’ve always had trouble drinking both of them, but it wasn’t until Robin was here, and while trying to share a bottle of wine that it became clear to me that I had an allergy to something in the wine. I developed wheals around my mouth, which is a definite indication of an allergic reaction.
So, I report this to my medical care providers. It never fails to worry me when a new nurse comes in and is amused about my allergy to alcohol. Now, alcohol and I get along just fine. We even have fewer problems, alcohol and I, than others seem to do. I’ve only had one serious hangover; the first one. There were mornings when I may have moved a bit slower than everyone else, but it was never an issue.
But, I don’t consider an allergy to wine an allergy to alcohol. And I’m glad they ask. But what about all the assumptions that are made, that don’t get asked about because they’re not quite so amusing as an allergy to alcohol.
Which brings me back to my “Healthcare by Internet Articles.” I find it disturbing to discover that I have to become an “armchair expert” on my own illness, while I’m not at my best, while I’m actually ill. That I can’t rely on my healthcare providers to look at what is actually going on with me, and make their recommendations based on actual fact, rather than on a host of possibilities that may occur with me.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Late, but still today
OK, so these things keep getting posted later and later.
Both Nurse Practitioner Nancy (forgot to mention her yesterday; sorry Nancy!) and Nurse Diane called this morning AT THE SAME TIME, to see how I was doing.
I’m still 175 pounds but am pretty tired today. Had my son take me out to pick up my Packer Candy (the Vicodin), to clarify my dosing instructions for one of my other meds, and we stopped at Barnes & Noble. While there, I was surprised to get a call from my sister, Cuz. We talked for a while which helped considerably. You see, she helped get me up on my soapbox. And then look out! I actually think that a soapbox can be a power source the way some people, like me, use them.
As I mentioned yesterday, I suffer from very little WBC activity. Since they gave me a shot to stimulate that activity, the reason for the lack thereof is probably due to my system fighting an infection or two already. The prescription for a broad spectrum antibiotic, Levaquin, would seem to support this conclusion.
With a low WBC, I won’t get normal symptoms of infections. So we have to look elsewhere for clues. Now, if I recall correctly, an intestinal infection can cause, oh, I don’t know, FLATULENCE! “Anything that causes food to be incompletely digested by the stomach and/or small intestine may cause flatulence when the material arrives in the large intestine due to fermentation by yeast or bacteria normally or abnormally present in the gastrointestinal tract.”
Since taking the Levaquin, the flatulence has, for the most part, stopped. And with the anti-diarrheal med, Lomotil, the liquid stools have cut WAY back; which prompted NP Nancy to suggest that we were over the hump.
Now, you have to blame Cuz for what comes next. She got me started on my soapbox and I have absolutely no control over it, I swear!
I had to clarify my medication instructions, the blue pills I think, with the pharmacist. I was give a prescription for the Lomotil with specific verbal dosing instructions. This was yesterday while I was pretty much out of it. Specific Instructions!
Got my prescription yesterday and I noticed a name change. OK, a different trade name. No big deal. I get home and get ready to take my meds so I read the label. Different dosing instructions. So, somewhere between NP Nancy giving me specific instructions, the script getting prepared, the script transmitted to the pharmacy, the pharmacy dealing with the insurance company and filling the prescription, and the customer, me, getting the darned thing home to consume, things changed.
By now, it’s afternoon, I’m beat and just want to lay down. What to do, what to do?
When I asked NP Nancy about the med this morning, it was back to the Specific Instructions.
Now, I’m wondering if I even have the right medication or not. Time for the sick customer to check everything out so I can be assured of taking the correct meds according to Specific Instructions.
Anybody, besides me, see a problem there?
Here’s another one.
As I was being set up with my first bag of chemo, I was given a very nice 1-1/2” three-ring-binder chock full of stuff relating to my chemotherapy. I was given handouts which were Internet informational sheets about the drugs that were to be used on me.
Since I knew I was going to be at the Cancer Clinic for a while, I had brought my Ensure and some liquids. I wasn’t sure what was going to be available, and anyone who knows me knows that “Inspector Gadget” is my middle name; if I might need it, I bring it!
So, I did note that the Cisplatin handout said that I should drink extra fluids. One of the myriad of possible side effect might be dry mouth, increased thirst, stuff like that.
The Docetaxel handout said there may be a decrease in urinary output.
The Flurouracil (5-FU) handout doesn’t mention thirst at all but does say that I may get mouth sores that may keep me from drinking liquids.
By the time I finished up the second drug, I was already thirsty. Lucky for me that I had brought fluids, although I’m sure the VLCC would have supplied me with some had I asked.
So, while in the Clinic for my first chemotherapy, I had a sensation in the back of my mouth that felt like I had a hair caught in the dry mucous membranes. The next day I identified the sensation as thin strips of mucous membrane; the “skin” inside my mouth was already breaking down. Now, was that significant? At that point in time? I had no way of knowing if it were significant at all.
And things were just getting started.
Over the course of the next few days, I continued to have the same problems I’ve had for some time, along with my newfound thirst.
The loss of 16 pounds over the weekend after the removal of the pump seemed to constitute a serious “possible side effect” that prompted a call to the on-call oncologist over the weekend. From my descriptions of the problem, it didn’t sound as if there were anything to worry about. I COULD go into ER if I REALLY needed to but otherwise….
Which finally prompted my visit to the clinic on Tuesday.
We’ve already mentioned the flatulence due in part to the WBC being low and a possible infection. Did I mention the dry, dry thirsty mouth? There was more going on with that, but how can a customer separate out all the possible side effects into neat discrete one-liners on a handout?
Remember the Flurouracil handout mentioned mouth sores that could prevent me from drinking liquids? From quenching my thirst?
Yep, mouth sores; otherwise known as mucositis, occurs in 40% of the folks taking 5-FU. While not a certainty, maybe it’s something that should be mentioned a little more than just in passing. Especially considering the implications. Read what mucositis is like!! Maybe I’m not such a wimp after all.
So this is why I was given a script for the “magic mouthwash” I mentioned.
However, by now, the dead tissue in the back of my throat is already sloughing off, leaving me with little pieces of tissue floating around in a mouth that’s filled with other strange sensations already. This is what the “magic mouthwash,” in earlier stages, is supposed to help. It’s interesting to note that I’m almost to stage 5, the healing stage, when I first get something to treat the issue!
I guess I don’t complain enough, because I sure don’t know WHAT to complain about.
Bored yet?
I guess I have problems with my “service” providers not giving me timely, pertinent information on my treatments rather than having to consult “information” providers who may have no idea what I’m going through. They wouldn’t know what is significant because I may not know what is significant.
Why give a customer a book with questions to ask your doctor? Why not give the doctors a book with the information they are to provide for their customers in a report format? They should be used to providing reports. Then, they can answer follow-up questions if necessary.
Well, I certainly need to go play with my colored meds; I forget if this hour is the red or the blue pills. And I certainly don’t want to miss my Packer Candy.
I try to take as little pain meds as possible. Always have; always will. I still remember my ex-wife, Kris, ordering my nurse to give me my pain shot after having my wisdom teeth removed and I tried to refuse the shot. LOL But maybe I need to take my pain meds a little more freely than I’m normally inclined to.
Anyway, I’ll keep my appointment on Friday for more lab work and a visit with the Doctor. Maybe we'll hear the hump has been passed.
Both Nurse Practitioner Nancy (forgot to mention her yesterday; sorry Nancy!) and Nurse Diane called this morning AT THE SAME TIME, to see how I was doing.
I’m still 175 pounds but am pretty tired today. Had my son take me out to pick up my Packer Candy (the Vicodin), to clarify my dosing instructions for one of my other meds, and we stopped at Barnes & Noble. While there, I was surprised to get a call from my sister, Cuz. We talked for a while which helped considerably. You see, she helped get me up on my soapbox. And then look out! I actually think that a soapbox can be a power source the way some people, like me, use them.
As I mentioned yesterday, I suffer from very little WBC activity. Since they gave me a shot to stimulate that activity, the reason for the lack thereof is probably due to my system fighting an infection or two already. The prescription for a broad spectrum antibiotic, Levaquin, would seem to support this conclusion.
With a low WBC, I won’t get normal symptoms of infections. So we have to look elsewhere for clues. Now, if I recall correctly, an intestinal infection can cause, oh, I don’t know, FLATULENCE! “Anything that causes food to be incompletely digested by the stomach and/or small intestine may cause flatulence when the material arrives in the large intestine due to fermentation by yeast or bacteria normally or abnormally present in the gastrointestinal tract.”
Since taking the Levaquin, the flatulence has, for the most part, stopped. And with the anti-diarrheal med, Lomotil, the liquid stools have cut WAY back; which prompted NP Nancy to suggest that we were over the hump.
Now, you have to blame Cuz for what comes next. She got me started on my soapbox and I have absolutely no control over it, I swear!
I had to clarify my medication instructions, the blue pills I think, with the pharmacist. I was give a prescription for the Lomotil with specific verbal dosing instructions. This was yesterday while I was pretty much out of it. Specific Instructions!
Got my prescription yesterday and I noticed a name change. OK, a different trade name. No big deal. I get home and get ready to take my meds so I read the label. Different dosing instructions. So, somewhere between NP Nancy giving me specific instructions, the script getting prepared, the script transmitted to the pharmacy, the pharmacy dealing with the insurance company and filling the prescription, and the customer, me, getting the darned thing home to consume, things changed.
By now, it’s afternoon, I’m beat and just want to lay down. What to do, what to do?
When I asked NP Nancy about the med this morning, it was back to the Specific Instructions.
Now, I’m wondering if I even have the right medication or not. Time for the sick customer to check everything out so I can be assured of taking the correct meds according to Specific Instructions.
Anybody, besides me, see a problem there?
Here’s another one.
As I was being set up with my first bag of chemo, I was given a very nice 1-1/2” three-ring-binder chock full of stuff relating to my chemotherapy. I was given handouts which were Internet informational sheets about the drugs that were to be used on me.
Since I knew I was going to be at the Cancer Clinic for a while, I had brought my Ensure and some liquids. I wasn’t sure what was going to be available, and anyone who knows me knows that “Inspector Gadget” is my middle name; if I might need it, I bring it!
So, I did note that the Cisplatin handout said that I should drink extra fluids. One of the myriad of possible side effect might be dry mouth, increased thirst, stuff like that.
The Docetaxel handout said there may be a decrease in urinary output.
The Flurouracil (5-FU) handout doesn’t mention thirst at all but does say that I may get mouth sores that may keep me from drinking liquids.
By the time I finished up the second drug, I was already thirsty. Lucky for me that I had brought fluids, although I’m sure the VLCC would have supplied me with some had I asked.
So, while in the Clinic for my first chemotherapy, I had a sensation in the back of my mouth that felt like I had a hair caught in the dry mucous membranes. The next day I identified the sensation as thin strips of mucous membrane; the “skin” inside my mouth was already breaking down. Now, was that significant? At that point in time? I had no way of knowing if it were significant at all.
And things were just getting started.
Over the course of the next few days, I continued to have the same problems I’ve had for some time, along with my newfound thirst.
The loss of 16 pounds over the weekend after the removal of the pump seemed to constitute a serious “possible side effect” that prompted a call to the on-call oncologist over the weekend. From my descriptions of the problem, it didn’t sound as if there were anything to worry about. I COULD go into ER if I REALLY needed to but otherwise….
Which finally prompted my visit to the clinic on Tuesday.
We’ve already mentioned the flatulence due in part to the WBC being low and a possible infection. Did I mention the dry, dry thirsty mouth? There was more going on with that, but how can a customer separate out all the possible side effects into neat discrete one-liners on a handout?
Remember the Flurouracil handout mentioned mouth sores that could prevent me from drinking liquids? From quenching my thirst?
Yep, mouth sores; otherwise known as mucositis, occurs in 40% of the folks taking 5-FU. While not a certainty, maybe it’s something that should be mentioned a little more than just in passing. Especially considering the implications. Read what mucositis is like!! Maybe I’m not such a wimp after all.
So this is why I was given a script for the “magic mouthwash” I mentioned.
However, by now, the dead tissue in the back of my throat is already sloughing off, leaving me with little pieces of tissue floating around in a mouth that’s filled with other strange sensations already. This is what the “magic mouthwash,” in earlier stages, is supposed to help. It’s interesting to note that I’m almost to stage 5, the healing stage, when I first get something to treat the issue!
I guess I don’t complain enough, because I sure don’t know WHAT to complain about.
Bored yet?
I guess I have problems with my “service” providers not giving me timely, pertinent information on my treatments rather than having to consult “information” providers who may have no idea what I’m going through. They wouldn’t know what is significant because I may not know what is significant.
Why give a customer a book with questions to ask your doctor? Why not give the doctors a book with the information they are to provide for their customers in a report format? They should be used to providing reports. Then, they can answer follow-up questions if necessary.
Well, I certainly need to go play with my colored meds; I forget if this hour is the red or the blue pills. And I certainly don’t want to miss my Packer Candy.
I try to take as little pain meds as possible. Always have; always will. I still remember my ex-wife, Kris, ordering my nurse to give me my pain shot after having my wisdom teeth removed and I tried to refuse the shot. LOL But maybe I need to take my pain meds a little more freely than I’m normally inclined to.
Anyway, I’ll keep my appointment on Friday for more lab work and a visit with the Doctor. Maybe we'll hear the hump has been passed.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Symptoms…
Now, I advise you to reconsider whether or not you want to read this post. It will contain descriptions of graphic symptoms in keeping with my use of this blog as a diary that may not be in keeping with your use of the blog.
Reader, Beware!
In retrospect, maybe I shouldn’t be quite so grateful to Becky for her actions when I walked into the VLCC this morning. As soon as I croaked my name and that I didn’t have an appointment and that I’d like to see someone, she was up and off like a shot (whatever that means) and returned almost instantly with news that she had a nurse coming as soon as one could get free. PDQ! Something a customer likes to see.
Now, it did take a while for a nurse to free up—did I mention that I didn’t have an appointment?—but Becky kept an eye on me. She even came out to where I was waiting to reassure me that a nurse was coming.
I must have looked like I felt. And for that to get fast action in a Cancer Clinic must have been pretty bad.
They finally took me in back, drew some blood from my implanted port to get lab tests started, and then we talked. I told them about the 16 pound weight loss over the weekend, the diarrhea that wouldn’t be controlled by Wal Mart’s version of Imodium AD, the constant awful-smelling gas, the rumbling intestinal sound effects, hemorrhoid #3 (I have had so few, they’re actually numbered), the inability to swallow due to sores at the back of the mouth
Nurse Cate got me started, but Nurse Diane, I believe, hooked me up to some fluids to get me started rehydrating while we talked and waited for test results.
Now, that‘s not to say that Diane hung around; she had other things to do. And I was more than happy to doze in the chair. I would like to have slept but dozing was fine.
Long story short, what White Blood Cell Count? Although I had had some aches and pains from the shot I had on Friday to stimulate the white blood cell recovery, the WBCs hadn’t taken off yet.
So, I have new meds for treating diarrhea, an antibiotic to treat the mouth sores and other infections, and a “miracle mouthwash” that is an oral topical pain-killer. I take it before taking the rest of the meds.
Now, it’s taken me several hours to jot this down, what with my bathroom habits and all. And, all the ways I get to play with my meds just to consume them is starting to get to be an irritation as well; “Take this first so I can take the pills, so I can take the awful tasting pain meds.” In addition to not feeling very well. Now I am starting to get depressed!
Maybe I’ll get a good night’s sleep…
Nurse Diane will be calling me tomorrow unless I show up at the VLCC first.
Reader, Beware!
In retrospect, maybe I shouldn’t be quite so grateful to Becky for her actions when I walked into the VLCC this morning. As soon as I croaked my name and that I didn’t have an appointment and that I’d like to see someone, she was up and off like a shot (whatever that means) and returned almost instantly with news that she had a nurse coming as soon as one could get free. PDQ! Something a customer likes to see.
Now, it did take a while for a nurse to free up—did I mention that I didn’t have an appointment?—but Becky kept an eye on me. She even came out to where I was waiting to reassure me that a nurse was coming.
I must have looked like I felt. And for that to get fast action in a Cancer Clinic must have been pretty bad.
They finally took me in back, drew some blood from my implanted port to get lab tests started, and then we talked. I told them about the 16 pound weight loss over the weekend, the diarrhea that wouldn’t be controlled by Wal Mart’s version of Imodium AD, the constant awful-smelling gas, the rumbling intestinal sound effects, hemorrhoid #3 (I have had so few, they’re actually numbered), the inability to swallow due to sores at the back of the mouth
Nurse Cate got me started, but Nurse Diane, I believe, hooked me up to some fluids to get me started rehydrating while we talked and waited for test results.
Now, that‘s not to say that Diane hung around; she had other things to do. And I was more than happy to doze in the chair. I would like to have slept but dozing was fine.
Long story short, what White Blood Cell Count? Although I had had some aches and pains from the shot I had on Friday to stimulate the white blood cell recovery, the WBCs hadn’t taken off yet.
So, I have new meds for treating diarrhea, an antibiotic to treat the mouth sores and other infections, and a “miracle mouthwash” that is an oral topical pain-killer. I take it before taking the rest of the meds.
Now, it’s taken me several hours to jot this down, what with my bathroom habits and all. And, all the ways I get to play with my meds just to consume them is starting to get to be an irritation as well; “Take this first so I can take the pills, so I can take the awful tasting pain meds.” In addition to not feeling very well. Now I am starting to get depressed!
Maybe I’ll get a good night’s sleep…
Nurse Diane will be calling me tomorrow unless I show up at the VLCC first.
I should be working...
...but I'm not.
175 pounds this AM. I have a few things to do this morning and then a stop at the VLCC. Sorry!
I'll keep you posted.
175 pounds this AM. I have a few things to do this morning and then a stop at the VLCC. Sorry!
I'll keep you posted.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Roommates again.
It’s true; I picked up some roommates yesterday. My son, Ben, and his two cats, Mousebane and “Himmy” (short for Him Who Must Be Obeyed), have come to stay.
They’ve been moving in a little at a time over the last few weeks but finally made the break and slept here last night. It’s so strange having to respect the rights of a fellow border after having the place to myself for so long. And Ben works second shift. But I’ll get used to it. J
But it’s also very nice to receive the attention from the cats. Mousebane remembers me from back when he lived with me before. He came right up to me and started the re-introductions. We've progressed to him getting brushed already.
I was wondering about Himmy, though. Unlike Mousebane and myself, Himmy and I have very little history together; just the few times I’d come to visit Ben. So it was nice to see that Himmy just jumped right in there and decided to get friendly.
Himmy has some medical problems, so I’m especially proud of my son for taking care of a cat that requires so much attention. I think Ben was a little worried what effect the move would have on Himmy. But from what I have seen, Himmy has perked up and has been getting around pretty well. It's also nice to see my son smiling at the antics of his 'kids.'
Anyway, welcome, guys!
Well I didn’t lose any more weight overnight, although I did lose everything that I put in me yesterday. So, I’ll get back with the doctors and see what’s up with that.
BTW, Amy, what with all my “bathroom” time, I’m getting quite a few of my Sudoku puzzles done. Now don’t worry, I have plenty more. But I remember that, at one time, you were concerned that I wasn’t giving them enough play. They’re getting play!
Unfortunately, that also means that I’m not sleeping as well, what with all the rumblings going on and all. I was up fairly early this AM and ran (drove) down to the local Subway for a breakfast wrap; I’m not used to Subway doing breakfast. Got back, ate half the wrap, did a little work, vewy, vewy, qwietwy, and fell asleep in the chair with a book. That’s why this is getting out late.
At the same time, I have picked up a nice set of mouth sores. It seems that the chemotherapy is supposed to kill the fast growing cells, usually the cancer. But, the cells in the mouth grow pretty fast as well, and therefore get targeted. Nuttin' but side-effects. Or, would that be considered "collateral damage?"
Well, I’m gonna get this posted and go from there.
Later.
They’ve been moving in a little at a time over the last few weeks but finally made the break and slept here last night. It’s so strange having to respect the rights of a fellow border after having the place to myself for so long. And Ben works second shift. But I’ll get used to it. J
But it’s also very nice to receive the attention from the cats. Mousebane remembers me from back when he lived with me before. He came right up to me and started the re-introductions. We've progressed to him getting brushed already.
I was wondering about Himmy, though. Unlike Mousebane and myself, Himmy and I have very little history together; just the few times I’d come to visit Ben. So it was nice to see that Himmy just jumped right in there and decided to get friendly.
Himmy has some medical problems, so I’m especially proud of my son for taking care of a cat that requires so much attention. I think Ben was a little worried what effect the move would have on Himmy. But from what I have seen, Himmy has perked up and has been getting around pretty well. It's also nice to see my son smiling at the antics of his 'kids.'
Anyway, welcome, guys!
Well I didn’t lose any more weight overnight, although I did lose everything that I put in me yesterday. So, I’ll get back with the doctors and see what’s up with that.
BTW, Amy, what with all my “bathroom” time, I’m getting quite a few of my Sudoku puzzles done. Now don’t worry, I have plenty more. But I remember that, at one time, you were concerned that I wasn’t giving them enough play. They’re getting play!
Unfortunately, that also means that I’m not sleeping as well, what with all the rumblings going on and all. I was up fairly early this AM and ran (drove) down to the local Subway for a breakfast wrap; I’m not used to Subway doing breakfast. Got back, ate half the wrap, did a little work, vewy, vewy, qwietwy, and fell asleep in the chair with a book. That’s why this is getting out late.
At the same time, I have picked up a nice set of mouth sores. It seems that the chemotherapy is supposed to kill the fast growing cells, usually the cancer. But, the cells in the mouth grow pretty fast as well, and therefore get targeted. Nuttin' but side-effects. Or, would that be considered "collateral damage?"
Well, I’m gonna get this posted and go from there.
Later.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Catch Up
Let’s try to catch up on some comments, etc.
First, my thanks to Ronny for coming up with the Esophageal Cancer Ribbon campaign. I didn’t use the way to display it that you suggested, Ronny, at least I don’t think so. But it worked and I appreciated the help.
I had made mention some time ago of my personal cheerleader squad horoscope. I’ve gotten some responses based on that horoscope, but not in the manner I had intended.
When I stand up in front of the squad and holler, “Give me a B…” and all I hear is off-blog mutterings, it kinda negates the purpose of the squad, don’t ‘cha think?
I have handed out quite a few straight lines, recently, in hopes that the squad will pick up on them and hand me back a few curves. Not just for me, but for the rest of the squad as well. Then, the rest of the squad can pick up on something said and try to top it. It makes for more fun. And, I don’t know about you, but I could certainly use some more fun. So, why be good? Have some fun, for all of us on this blog!
So think about it when it comes to posting those comments. You always have the option of remaining anonymous, which is usually my choice.
My Pump-less!!!! post did garner some offline comments.
No, there has been no thought given to piercing anything. I’d rather do without the implant, all things considered. But that would mean that I would have to stay in the hospital for five days at a time, being waited on hand and foot, wearing out veins while they tried to pump small amounts of chemicals into my body. So I guess I’ll go with the implant.
And I see today that someone thinks my 56-year-old body looks pretty good. That’s always a boost to the ego, even if I disagree. But “…different strokes for different folks…”
As I mentioned, I did come up with something for the overnight liquid meds. It’s not up to my usual standards, but then I’m somewhat “challenged” right now. Concentration-wise, that is.
I did appreciate the off-blog suggestion that the “little colored balls” could actually be M&Ms, just in case I didn’t wake all the way up. If they get swallowed, no Hu-Hu!
As for the “hard-of-hearing” issue in the same email, you’ve actually hit on something, here. One of the chemo therapies does kill nerves, including those in the ears. So, I am going to lose some hearing. Huh? (Ben, you’re just going to have to speak up more!!) So, I got a chuckle out of your salutation, especially after I read your explanation.
Ben and I just got back from shopping for a bunch of stuff including air freshener. Sorry, but that’s a reference to off-blog conversations that I’ll leave for your imagination. For now.
We ran into my friend, Teo and his family, while we were out. Ben got to meet Teo’s family, including his two delightful little girls. It was a good day.
I did talk to the doctor today about current symptoms, and will check back with them tomorrow as well.
So, sweet dreams, all. I’ll check in tomorrow to keep you updated.
First, my thanks to Ronny for coming up with the Esophageal Cancer Ribbon campaign. I didn’t use the way to display it that you suggested, Ronny, at least I don’t think so. But it worked and I appreciated the help.
I had made mention some time ago of my personal cheerleader squad horoscope. I’ve gotten some responses based on that horoscope, but not in the manner I had intended.
When I stand up in front of the squad and holler, “Give me a B…” and all I hear is off-blog mutterings, it kinda negates the purpose of the squad, don’t ‘cha think?
I have handed out quite a few straight lines, recently, in hopes that the squad will pick up on them and hand me back a few curves. Not just for me, but for the rest of the squad as well. Then, the rest of the squad can pick up on something said and try to top it. It makes for more fun. And, I don’t know about you, but I could certainly use some more fun. So, why be good? Have some fun, for all of us on this blog!
So think about it when it comes to posting those comments. You always have the option of remaining anonymous, which is usually my choice.
My Pump-less!!!! post did garner some offline comments.
No, there has been no thought given to piercing anything. I’d rather do without the implant, all things considered. But that would mean that I would have to stay in the hospital for five days at a time, being waited on hand and foot, wearing out veins while they tried to pump small amounts of chemicals into my body. So I guess I’ll go with the implant.
And I see today that someone thinks my 56-year-old body looks pretty good. That’s always a boost to the ego, even if I disagree. But “…different strokes for different folks…”
As I mentioned, I did come up with something for the overnight liquid meds. It’s not up to my usual standards, but then I’m somewhat “challenged” right now. Concentration-wise, that is.
I did appreciate the off-blog suggestion that the “little colored balls” could actually be M&Ms, just in case I didn’t wake all the way up. If they get swallowed, no Hu-Hu!
As for the “hard-of-hearing” issue in the same email, you’ve actually hit on something, here. One of the chemo therapies does kill nerves, including those in the ears. So, I am going to lose some hearing. Huh? (Ben, you’re just going to have to speak up more!!) So, I got a chuckle out of your salutation, especially after I read your explanation.
Ben and I just got back from shopping for a bunch of stuff including air freshener. Sorry, but that’s a reference to off-blog conversations that I’ll leave for your imagination. For now.
We ran into my friend, Teo and his family, while we were out. Ben got to meet Teo’s family, including his two delightful little girls. It was a good day.
I did talk to the doctor today about current symptoms, and will check back with them tomorrow as well.
So, sweet dreams, all. I’ll check in tomorrow to keep you updated.
More Weight Loss...
Let's see, at 176 pounds this AM, that means I've lost 16 pounds since the day before yesterday. Sixteen pounds in two days. And that's while I'm still eating.
My blood pressure was hard to take this AM as well. The little automated readers are neat, except when things start to get difficult. I finally got two readings, 116/84 and 104/76, with pulse rates of 95 and 97.
So, I guess I give 'em a call this AM just to check in and to ask a few questions.
The wonder yogurt is OK, Amy. I hope that it helps. It occurrs to me that I used to take all these vitamins when I felt pretty good, and now that I'm feeling like crap, I'm not supposed to take anything that might mess up my chemotherapy. I'm supposed to get all my vitamins from Ensure?
Thanks for all the suggestions regarding the "overnight liquid meds" issue. I survived last night with my new system. We'll see how it goes...
I want to go out to get some things today, but with my pulse rate up and feeling unsteady, I think I'll wait until Ben comes over. In the meantime, I have some notes to jot down and talk to a doctor about.
Maybe later.
My blood pressure was hard to take this AM as well. The little automated readers are neat, except when things start to get difficult. I finally got two readings, 116/84 and 104/76, with pulse rates of 95 and 97.
So, I guess I give 'em a call this AM just to check in and to ask a few questions.
The wonder yogurt is OK, Amy. I hope that it helps. It occurrs to me that I used to take all these vitamins when I felt pretty good, and now that I'm feeling like crap, I'm not supposed to take anything that might mess up my chemotherapy. I'm supposed to get all my vitamins from Ensure?
Thanks for all the suggestions regarding the "overnight liquid meds" issue. I survived last night with my new system. We'll see how it goes...
I want to go out to get some things today, but with my pulse rate up and feeling unsteady, I think I'll wait until Ben comes over. In the meantime, I have some notes to jot down and talk to a doctor about.
Maybe later.
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