Today Joe started back his chemotherapy treatments after a month off due to being hospitalized, on antibiotics and the Thanksgiving holiday. Before his last hospitalization, he had been doing his treatments every week. Now, however, he is doing them once every three weeks, getting a larger dosage (4 hours long). He had his lab and doctor appointments early this morning prior to his treatment. He saw Dr. Zafar and of course after last weeks fever there were lots of questions. Joe was a good patient and told him about every issue he has had in the last few weeks. Since coming off the antibiotics he has been experiencing some stomach issues so now he has to provide a couple of "specimens" to make sure he doesn't have a c diff infection. He is so looking forward to delivering the samples tomorrow. Since he was already scheduled to go back to the Duke Cancer Center tomorrow for a shot to boost his white cell count, he'll just have to make a detour to the third floor to drop off his two cups (hopefully in a non see thru bag).
What made this treatment different is that it was the first long one that I wasn't present for. I'm here to tell you that I didn't like it one bit either. It will be the first and last. His next appointment isn't until December 17th. If he can just stay healthy, keep fevers away and stay out of the hospital, then life will be good.
With the higher dosage, we can expect the accompanying initial symptoms to increase: more fatigue and more joint aches. Hopefully however, by the end of this week, the symptoms will have eased and he will have a couple of really good weeks before his next infusion.
We both really appreciate all the words of encouragement and support this past week. It wasn't the best of weeks but your concern has been a big blessing. Thank you.
While waiting to pick Joe up, I had a lovely ride around Duke Chapel.
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