Chemo infusions: 10 down, 1-2 to go
Treatment yesterday went well and they did lower my dose by another 20%. So far I've had 6 treatments with a full dose, 3 with 80% of a normal dose and now the latest one at 60% of a normal dose. No decision on next week's treatment yet, we'll see how things go over the next week. My symptoms unfold over the course of several days after treatments so we won't decide until next Tuesday whether to do more chemo or not.
I need to really pay attention to the neuropathy and asses whether or not it's worsening but it's hard to tell! Last week the numbness in my fingers progressed down from the fingertips to my second knuckle and the tip of my tongue went numb. It was easy to notice a new area being impacted, but determining if the numb areas are worse is more subtle.
Thankfully, I'm not in pain, with regards to the neuropathy or in any other way and I am so lucky that I'm not. I am acutely aware that this chemo experience could have been so much worse, and it is for many, many people. I'm weary but I am up for this 1 or 2 more times if that's what needs to happen. Early detection meant my tumor was really small and I was saved from needing multiple harsh chemotherapy drugs, radiation and the side effects patients suffer miserably with both. Cancer isn't going away anytime soon but we are currently able to stop it in its tracks like never before, especially when it is found really early. Whatever cancer screenings your body qualifies you for- get them regularly!
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