Just Checking In...

So it's been a week since my 4th chemo. At the 75% dose, it was presumed that I would feel less crappy. It didn't exactly work that way - I threw up for the first time on chemo night. But it was a shortlived session and I felt better afterward. I have been generally tired and lazy and just not feeling the greatest but I think I'm on the upswing of that now. I always feel the most 'bleh' the several days after chemo.

3rd round, I did not get the several really painful canker sores that I had in the 2nd round. I did get one at the corner of my mouth, plus a cold sore - but it was way preferable to those darn cankers. But I am prepared, just in case - having been provided some sting-free canker meds from a friend. VERY much appreciated! Orajel works ok after you get over the burning sensation of putting it on but I'll be happy to try sting-free.

My GP called me in to see him - says my blood is low. Knew that already from chemo, but he obviously has something he wants to talk to me about - perhaps nag me about taking my multi-vitamins and iron pills. I have no idea why, but I have been negligent in taking them regularly. I think it's because the new multis that I bought smell and taste bad. The first ones had no smell or flavour. Perhaps it's worth it to just get another bottle of the first kind and pass along these smelly ones to someone less picky... That probably is the answer - I can't think of any other reason why I wouldn't take the multi-vitamin. I will find out specifically what his concerns are on Friday.

I find myself more tired now - doing something motivated for 10 minutes and then needing to rest for an hour. I got really motivated today and was out and about most of the day - but when I got home, I was bagged and fell asleep for 3 hours. That does not work well for getting a proper sleep pattern as now it is 1:12 am and I am not sleeping.

My eyelashes and eyebrows are getting really skimpy now. I used eyebrow powder for the first time today. The onco says eyelashes don't usually fall completely out, but I have very few left and am only halfway through, so I'm not holding out much hope of keeping any lashes. He also went to great lengths to explain how weird it is when someone has no lashes and you don't really notice exactly WHY they look weird right away... This guy is not my regular onco - only the fill-in one, and while he is a little funnier and more animated, he has said a few things to me that I think I would prefer he had kept to himself. My own onco is much more professional and less garrulous. I think I might be happy to have him back... But, I actually have very little contact with them. A quick appointment every 3 weeks before chemo where they ask me about my side effects and then off they go to the next appointment.

We're trying to beat the HRTC deadline for renovations - now we're in the market for a new kitchen, plus floors and I have to get some carpet too. Send any recommendations my way. It seems a little odd to imagine my kitchen NOT having pink shiny cabinets - but I'm happy to make the effort. Rancid pink cupboards....

Until next time!