Close to the end of Chemo

Here we are at the Day Hospital, next to last chemo infusion...... the home stretch. I could never have understood how debilitating this process is. It is hard to think of an example, but..... Sometimes, I would rather watch opera, or Oprah for that matter, than get up to get the TV remote. Too tired to read, or to have a conversation. Wake up in the morning wishing that the day will be over quickly.

My hemoglobin count has dropped through the floor due to the chemo. I am not sure, but I think that is the stuff that carries oxygen to the muscles. So, I probably feel about the same as a runner does at the end of a marathon.... starts to explain my energy level! I am a bit concerned regarding my heart. The poor thing is working overtime trying to supply my bodies' craving for oxygen, but is having to deal with oxygen depletion while it works.

 I received a “unit” (could be a pint) of blood during my last infusion two weeks ago, and am getting another today. The doc wanted to do two units, but with all of the other things going into me, there is not time today. Apparently it is not a simple as turning up the faucet. I am scheduled for another unit next Tues. when I finish my chemo regimen.

It is a bit disturbing to ponder who donated the blood. The USC medical campus (beautiful and modern as it is) is in the middle of...... let’s just say an area of minimalists.... people not weighed down with expensive possessions..... you know, folks that have no carbon footprint. I did notice that I suddenly have an urge to acquire some cheap wine and a shopping cart, and have been checking out camping sites under the various bridges near the hospital. I suppose that it is possible that the donator was/will be a USC med student, in which case I will be on the look out for urges to clean my car, and eat sushi. I guess that these are the chances one must take.... probably would have been better to stay healthy.

Sometimes I forget to mention the support offered by my friends and family, both East and West coasts. Karen and her son Michael have been selfless in their willingness to care for me. I am not sure that I would survive without them, and will probably never be able to repay the debt.

I had/have no options regarding my situation, but all of the other people who offer me help and support are volunteers... it is a distinction that I consider often.

I meet with the kidney cancer specialist next Tues after my chemo infusion. I expect to discuss my surgery with him, and have him recommend a nephrologist who will handle my upcoming dialysis.

It will likely be at least 3 weeks before I start to feel normal again, so, no promises regarding the next blog update.