Number 5, Still Alive

Treatment number 5 yesterday went well, apart from a long wait to see the doctor -  my regular oncologist was out so I saw a different doctor, who had a long queue.

Things of note:

• Lump is noticeably smaller and softer - hurray!
• No return of the lump under my arm - also great news.
• My white blood cells have recovered well, but I'm running a little low on haemoglobin, so there is a chance I may need a blood transfusion before my next treatment.
• No flu jab until after chemo, as it's too risky - all my family have had theirs though, so that should give me some protection.
• I'm going off for genetic testing - partly for me, but also for peace of mind for Kate, who is also going for genetic testing in the new year.
• My side effects from the Taxotere were nothing out of the ordinary, but they've made some alterations to my drugs that should hopefully make this round a bit easier - specifically to try and prevent a recurrence of the mouth infections I've been having.
• Just 2 more sessions to go after this, and I'm starting to be able to look forward to retuning to normal life. I'm hoping to be able to get back to work by the end of March.

After I'd seen the doctor, it was into the chemo suite to receive my drugs. Due to the mix up in dates, I had to have an extra steroid dose as well as the Taxotere.  The nurse managed to get the cannula into my hand again, which was a relief as the vein in my elbow has gone very hard. I was lucky enough to get the bed in the suite rather than the chair, so once I was up and running I was able to have a little nap. I get insomnia the night before chemo, so having had 2 nights in a row of little sleep, I needed a rest.

After the session, Kate treated me to lunch out at a Thai place in Windsor, before she drove me over to my parent's house, where I'll be staying for a little while. Simon is taking a long weekend, it's Kate's birthday on Monday, and my Grandparents and Aunt are coming to visit, so it should be a good couple of days.

At the moment, the side effects from the treatment haven't kicked in yet, so for now, I'm feeling pretty good. Last time it was 2 days out that I started to feel ill, so I should have another good 24 hours yet.