The first week of my chemo journey - chemo 1
8 Feb – first chemo day arrives - very nervous, but shouldn’t have been. The experience whilst not the most pleasant was much more bearable than I thought it would be, as good as could be hoped. I declined the cold cap after hearing the misgiving and possible pitfalls – let my hair drop I say – and will don my baldness with pride (or at least a hat or scarf…maybe a wig?).
Bolstered by my support buddy at my side as always, (my wonderful daughter Mel) we were met with a ton of paperwork then off to the chemo cubicle. I had this infusion through an intravenous line, but will have a central line put in for the next, apparently. No major sideaffects, bar a pretty sore head and a feeling like I am heavy – kind of like the beginnings of the flu. Pretty tired, though……
9 Feb – killer diarrhea kicked in overnight. Just slight nausea, and I kept waking up every two hours (mostly to go to the bathroom). Apart from that an ok night. Developed a headache that won’t quit, but not sure what I am able to take so will grin and bear.
10 Feb – still got the headache but went to my GP who told me to take Panadol. She advised that the first chemo is the ‘best and the worst’ as it is like the body is at its strongest fighting the chemicals which is why it fatigues and tries to expel the toxins rapidly (either by the north or the south gates). So I am embracing the current situation as I really hate to throw up. All good though today all things considered.
11 Feb – today I got my wig. Very happy with ‘Faith’ who will be a companion to me on my journey to recovery. I also picked up some snazzy caps, scarves and a wide brimmed hat which looks quite funky, even if I do say so myself.
