Cycle 2

Officially we’re at the end of my 2nd cycle.

I do five hours of infusion, followed by 2 days on a portable pump, and then a much appreciated shower a few days later. It seems around this time, the fatigue starts to settle in.

The cycles seem to link from one to another; as I recover from the first one, the second begins. Things are manageable, but it’s a rhythm I must get used to.

My side effects seemed to appear sooner and a little stronger than before in this second cycle. In addition to my fingers, I can feel the neuropathy in my temples now which include a stabbing pain when I tear up.

While I am still not experiencing some of the more common side effects of chemo like nausea, etc., the additional side effects that I am seeing with each treatment is a little daunting of what the future holds.

During this process, I also have to figure out my insurance coverage for next year as my current carrier is leaving the state after this year. Please pray for that to come together as I have to figure out which coverage will best suit my current health needs.

I’m also trying to bolster my support system. I’ve been given the names of several peer counselors and support groups and hope to join one or several of them soon.

Beyond dealing with the actual cancer, I’ve found that there are many practical things that need to be dealt with as well. I appreciate all of the support that I’ve received and the patience afforded to me in my late or lack of response. Dealing with everything can get to be time-consuming and just overwhelming.

On a sad note, last Thursday, a friend and client of 35+ years passed away after a long battle with a number of health conditions. He had recently moved into an assisted care facility, and his family tried to make it feel as much like his old home as possible. He was a kind and independent man, and I know accepting his limitations was difficult for him. I saw how he was trying to maintain his self-respect and independence as it was slipping away from him. With my recent diagnosis, I selfishly wondered if and when I’d be in his position. I loved him like a brother and am grateful for having known him and all the times that we shared.

Three years ago, during COVID, my father fell ill, required hospitalization, and there was the chance he would stay with me for his final days. The idea of changing my life to make room in my apartment for my Dad was startling, but I prepared for the possibility. Sadly, as much as he tried to rehabilitate, he never was well enough to leave the assisted care facility, and he passed away in May 2021.

I thought about that as I look at the situation I’m in now. You never know where life will take you. I was concerned that I’d struggle taking care of my dad, and now, I’m trying to map out my own future.

Thanks for reading this, and I appreciate the prayers as we wait and see how God’s plan unfolds.

P