Week 3 - Taxol and Herceptin

Another week down and almost 1/3 of the way done.  This was a week of learning how to manage symptoms.  I learned:
1.       Schedule is important.  If I try to stay out or up later or push myself I will pay for it the next day.  I do not mean by just being tired.  The nausea is greater, the fatigue is worse, and I tend toward lightheadedness and feeling like I will faint. 
2.       Each week is something new.  I thought I was getting into a pattern, but then this week, the tougher day was not Thursday be rather Friday and Saturday morning.  
3.       The Chemo exploits your physical weak points.  Now I understand why all medical professionals were saying I would do well.  Because I am healthy, there is not much for the chemo to exploit.  But what I have experienced to date:  bloody nose, dry cracked skin on my thumbs, and the listed symptom of aches and twinges that move throughout my body.  I have also started to shed my hair; not in clumps but just strands.  My hair may just thin rather than loose it all, but time will tell. 
4.       Fatigue really is fought off by exercise.  The days I walk 3-4 miles a day I feel good and can function.  The times I have sat on the couch or lazed around I feel horrible and have more trouble with nausea.  Back to point one, sticking to a schedule is critical. 


I really am doing ok, and able to function and take care of life for myself.  In fact, it is better when I do because I am moving and active.  The treatments have been uneventful and will now only be about 2.5 hours in length. 


There are some things I will need help with soon.  I will let you know when, but in May I am going to need some men with upper body strength is help move boxes and furniture.  Stay tuned for the sign up genius in May. 

​I need people to walk with.  I can push myself further when I am talking with someone.  When I am alone I do not push through the wall, and it is harder to fight the fatigue.   So, when you are available, text or call me, and we can make it happen rain or shine.