Thursday, June 23, 2011

I wanted to give everyone an update with how I am doing. I am beginning to feel better. I had thought last Sunday was my worst day but I had spoken too soon. The first part of this week was rough, very rough. But I believe I am past it now. I am still achy sore and fatigued but am able to manage through it the best I can.

I went back to the cancer center today and had my blood work drawn to check the important blood counts. The good news is that Neulesta shot I received the day after chemo is working because my white blood counts are higher today than right before I started chemo. They will continue to rise until my next chemo which will be 7/7. The white blood cells are the ones that fight infection so having high counts with these are good. My hemoglobin (red blood cells) count is lower than normal and so are my platelets. But they are “normal” counts expected with someone going through chemotherapy. The way I understand it is the red blood cells carry oxygen to your body and fatigue is a symptom if you are low here. You need higher levels of platelets to stop bleeding if it occurs and if you have lower levels you can bruise easily. I am no doctor but this is how I understand it. I feel good knowing what’s going on inside my body. It puts my mind at ease knowing my numbers.

I got to bring my Dad with me today to the cancer center. That was the first time he got to see where I am being treated. He said it was very nice. Other than myself there was only one other patient there so we had the place to ourself. Well, us and the woman who was playing the harp. A full sized harp and a lady was playing beautiful music for me. The harp is one of my favorite instruments to listen to and watch. It was very special.

In case you are wondering I still have my hair. It has not started falling out yet. My head is beginning to itch but that’s about it. They are predicting it will begin to fall out next week. That is why I have my appt set for July 1 for them to shave my head and fit and style my wig. Emotionally this will be a tough day for me.

I hope all of you are doing well.

Love,

Kim