Friday was my last day at work. I hope to return at the end of April after the transplant is complete. Cathy, of course, tagged along for the last three days at the office. I found out that she doesn't like traveling in the car. She makes driving a bit challenging, but other than that, she's just along for the ride...pun intended.
On Tuesday, I will be admitted to the hospital for one night to get the first of two high-dose chemotherapy treatments. It is a drug called Cytoxan. The chemotherapy I've had up until now has had minimal side effects, but that is not the case with Cytoxan. I should expect major side effects including nausea, severe fatigue, mouth sores, lowered immune system and, unfortunately, the dreaded hair loss.....all this and more from just one dose.
One day after the Cytoxan, I will get an injection of Neulasta. This drug is a white blood cell booster and will stimulate the growth of stem cells in my bone marrow. A common side effect of Neulasta is bone pain. This drug will help prepare my body for the stem cell collection which will be in approximately 2 - 3 weeks.
After my 24 hour jaunt in the hospital, I will come home and wait and watch and hope that the side effects are manageable. I guess Cathy and I will be spending our days with Oprah and Ellen.
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Please not too much Oprah and Ellen - barf!
ReplyDeleteoops - probably should not have said barf.......- sorry - LOL
little hugs D---
I go along with anonymous comments!
ReplyDeletedo you have DVR????
Lots of love,
Anita
Wishing you the very best in the next 3 to
ReplyDelete5 months as you go through this. Thanks to
Dave for being by your side.
Your biggest fans
Love,
Mom and Dad
Only you could turn a styrofoam cup of ensure into a cocktail! Susan, you have the most positive attitude of anyone I know. That and your sense of humor will do so much for your recovery : )
ReplyDeleteBTW - I always drink peppermint tea to settle my stomach. Works brilliantly!