Wednesday, November 29
I last posted on Saturday when I didn't have a good day. I indicated that I had hoped to go to church on Sunday morning. Sunday morning, I awoke and still was not feeling well. My stomach was queasy and I was very tired. I slept in and was not able to be up and going to church in time. It was close to 12 noon before my stomach and digestive tract started to calm down and I was able to get dressed.
At that point, on Sunday, Hubby wanted to get me out of the house and go for a walk at the local conservation area. I agreed because it has benches placed along the pathways for people to sit and rest. We took some birdseed with us. We had fun holding the seed in our hands and letting the birds come to us to eat. I had Chickadees, Northern Flickers and even a Downy Woodpecker land on my hand and gently take the seeds. When the birds land on your hand, it tickles and you don't even feel them take the seeds from your hand. The wind was cold and bitter on Sunday so we didn't stay out long. I did have to avail myself to the benches along the way in order to rest. It was nice to get out into the fresh air.
On Monday evening, Hubby and I went for a walk in the local mall. The last time I did the "mall walk", I was able to walk 75% of the mall before I had to sit and rest. This time I was able to walk the whole mall and climb the stairs to the second level at the end in order to go to the car. After reaching the top of the stairs, I had to rest on benches just inside the mall doors. This was progress though because I had walked the whole mall. After we got home on Monday night, Hubby and I settled into his man cave and watched two episodes of "Outlander" that we had missed while I was in hospital.
Tuesday, I enjoyed an afternoon walk with one of my good friends who lives around the corner from me. I was pleased that I was able to walk the distance although I'm not walking as fast as I used to. That will come. My friend and I enjoyed a lovely time of catching up after our walk. Tuesday evening, Hubby and I watched three more episodes of "Outlander". I really love this series of books and I'm enjoying the television series just as much.
I must add here that it is important for me to go to bed by 9 or 9:30 at the latest. If I go to bed any later than that, then I don't feel as well the next day..
On Wednesday (yesterday), I got myself up and going so that I could go to the Hospital Auxiliary's Christmas Bazaar. I drove Hubby to where he had to work and then drove the car to his office and parked it. I walked to the hospital from his work. I used to do this on a regular basis, but this is the first time I've attempted that walk since I've been home. It was a little daunting but I managed to do it. Then I still had to walk throughout the hospital and through the Bazaar. This was maybe more than I was ready for. I did manage to also visit my co-worker in the hospital. She had a baby boy on Monday. I was glad I got to see her before she was discharged to go home. By the time I made my way back to the Bazaar, I had to rest. I had bought a "refreshment ticket" for a cup of tea and a scone so I took advantage of the tables that were set and I sat. At that point, I enjoyed my tea and scone. I also enjoyed several visits with co-workers and volunteers that I have worked with. I did manage to pick up a few items for stocking stuffers and a baked good for Hubby and I. It was sticky buns with nuts and green & red cherries. We had a couple for dessert and they were delicious! After dinner, Hubby and I settled back down into the man cave and watched the last episode of Outlander. We are now caught up and ready for the next episode which will air on Sunday night.
Today, Thursday, I'm looking forward to going out with my cousin-in-law in the afternoon to another Christmas Craft Show and then dinner out with Hubby. I may even get some grocery shopping done in the morning if I feel up to it.
Thursday, 30 November 2017
Saturday, 25 November 2017
Day 26 - A Reality Check
I was so hopeful and looking forward to going to the Jingle Bell Tea at my church this afternoon. Unfortunately, my body decided to give me a reality check this morning which changed my plans. I had my breakfast and I took my pills. I was feeling very tired and also could feel my bowels getting ready to move.
I was glad that there was going to be movement as it means that my body is getting back to normal with regularity. Unfortunately, my stomach also decided to heave at the same time. I still was hoping that I could rest and get myself back to normal so that I could go out to the Jingle Bell Tea. This was not to be.
My taste buds have been soured for the full day. I did eat a piece of toast with butter for my lunch and then had some chicken noodle soup later in the afternoon. The day wasn't a complete waste as I managed to make some chili that is our traditional meal during on Grey Cup Sunday. I did have a small bowl at supper tonight. So far everything is staying down but my taste buds are definitely soured.
Here's hoping that I will continue to be settled tonight. I'm still hoping to attend church in the morning.
I was glad that there was going to be movement as it means that my body is getting back to normal with regularity. Unfortunately, my stomach also decided to heave at the same time. I still was hoping that I could rest and get myself back to normal so that I could go out to the Jingle Bell Tea. This was not to be.
My taste buds have been soured for the full day. I did eat a piece of toast with butter for my lunch and then had some chicken noodle soup later in the afternoon. The day wasn't a complete waste as I managed to make some chili that is our traditional meal during on Grey Cup Sunday. I did have a small bowl at supper tonight. So far everything is staying down but my taste buds are definitely soured.
Here's hoping that I will continue to be settled tonight. I'm still hoping to attend church in the morning.
Friday, 24 November 2017
Day 24 and Day 25 - Embracing Life As Best I Can
Day 24 - Thursday, November 23
I spent my morning carrying Christmas tote boxes from the basement to the living room. I was hoping to begin the process of putting up my Christmas tree in the living room and also start displaying my Christmas decorations and figurines. I overestimated my ability to do these things. Just carrying the boxes upstairs tired me out for the morning. I held onto a faint hope of being able to decorate in the evening.
In the afternoon, I went for a lovely walk with my cousin-in-law who now lives in Kingston. We enjoyed our visit while I got some much needed exercise. I was very pleased with myself in that I was able to walk somewhat briskly. I was very tired by the time I got back home but we walked several blocks. We continued our visit. We seem to have a connection at various intellectual levels. We have some similar interests and this feeds our conversation. I am enjoying this newfound friendship. It is the first time ever that I have had family in the same city as me.
Due to my walk, I was too tired in the evening to decorate. I had a great day and I can always start the decorating tomorrow. However, I was able to do a load of laundry and get it dried.
Day 25 - Friday, November 24
When I awoke this morning, I was feeling a little weak and dizzy. Oh, oh! This means that I didn't drink enough yesterday. I'll have to do better with that today. I fed my cat, Frodo, and then I went downstairs to get the laundry that I had done last night. I took it out of the dryer, folded it and brought it upstairs. Now I had to sit. Who would have thought that I would take satisfaction in just folding and carrying laundry up the stairs. After resting, I made some coffee as it can count as part of my hydration and I really like my cup or two of coffee in the mornings. I realized I needed to rest for a bit, so I picked up my knitting (another sock) and worked quietly away while I rested. Hubby was very tired and sore as he had volunteered with Habitat for Humanity yesterday. Finally, my coffee was ready and I got my first cup. I sipped on it while I continued to knit. Hubby awoke and slowly made his way to the couch with his coffee. I feel so bad for him. I worry about him too because he is out of shape and he worked hard physically yesterday. Anyway, we enjoyed our coffees and then it was time for me to get my breakfast. My body was feeling better already.
After having my breakfast, I continued to knit until I finished the one sock. Now I was motivated to get decorating. But....it was now lunch time. So I made myself an omelet and a salad. After lunch, I managed to get the tree up but only partially decorated before I ran out of energy. While I was working on the tree, I was listening to Christmas music and then I found a lovely Christmas movie on television which I enjoyed.
In the afternoon, a parcel was delivered with my Hubby's name on it. I called and let him know it had arrived. He specifically told me not to open it. OK...Christmas is coming up and who knows what he has been buying and for whom. Also in the afternoon, a friend of mine delivered 3 jars of my favourite relish that she makes. What a gift! I love to use her relish on my sandwiches and hamburgers. Most likely, the jars won't last long.
Also, in the afternoon, Hubby called to say that he would pick up my pizza on his way home. He is off to a concert with another friend this evening and I was going to treat myself to a Hawaiian pizza from our favourite pizzeria in town. They make a great crust and their pizzas are never overdone. For those who don't know, a Hawaiian pizza has ham and pineapple along with the mozzarella cheese and pizza sauce. When Hubby arrived home, we enjoyed some pizza together. Then it was time for him to leave. I met his friend at the front door as I am also good friends with him. It was great to see him. He came to visit me while I was in the hospital and I really enjoyed my visit with him then. We're also friends with his wife who I last saw in September. Tonight, she sent with her hubby some gifts for me. She sent me a magazine and 2 soap pumps with Christmas scents. I have read the magazine tonight and then I watched some hockey and also the Christmas shows "Frosty the Snowman" and "Frosty Returns". These have been cartoons that I have watched since I was a child. It is part of the Christmas tradition.
I love Christmas and the season of Advent. I think my favourite part is Advent where I find my soul is prepared in a peaceful manner for the anticipation of Christmas. I am much more attuned to the sacred part of Christmas rather than the consumerism and materialism of Christmas. My favourite decorations in my home are the ones with a sacred meaning. I light my Advent wreath with its candles every day during Advent and reflect on the meaning of each week in Advent. I also love my nativity scene that includes a wooden stable that a very good friend made for me about 26 years ago. I also treasure my nativity decoration that hangs in the window. It used to have lights that would light it up at night but they stopped working a number of years ago and there is no way to fix it. I love this decoration in my window because during the day, the daylight brightness shines through it and makes it glow. I have even found some Christmas tree ornaments that show the 3 Kings following the star.
Christmas has always meant a lot to me. I remember being pregnant during Advent when my daughter was born on Christmas day. It is a very special time. On top of all this, I truly love the family time that we share over the holidays. I find this year I am feeling even more sentimental about Advent and Christmas due to my major illness and treatment. I have so much to be thankful for. I'm not just thankful for my health, but also for all my friends and family that have been so very supportive throughout the last number of months. No wonder I'm embracing life as best I can.
I spent my morning carrying Christmas tote boxes from the basement to the living room. I was hoping to begin the process of putting up my Christmas tree in the living room and also start displaying my Christmas decorations and figurines. I overestimated my ability to do these things. Just carrying the boxes upstairs tired me out for the morning. I held onto a faint hope of being able to decorate in the evening.
In the afternoon, I went for a lovely walk with my cousin-in-law who now lives in Kingston. We enjoyed our visit while I got some much needed exercise. I was very pleased with myself in that I was able to walk somewhat briskly. I was very tired by the time I got back home but we walked several blocks. We continued our visit. We seem to have a connection at various intellectual levels. We have some similar interests and this feeds our conversation. I am enjoying this newfound friendship. It is the first time ever that I have had family in the same city as me.
Due to my walk, I was too tired in the evening to decorate. I had a great day and I can always start the decorating tomorrow. However, I was able to do a load of laundry and get it dried.
Day 25 - Friday, November 24
When I awoke this morning, I was feeling a little weak and dizzy. Oh, oh! This means that I didn't drink enough yesterday. I'll have to do better with that today. I fed my cat, Frodo, and then I went downstairs to get the laundry that I had done last night. I took it out of the dryer, folded it and brought it upstairs. Now I had to sit. Who would have thought that I would take satisfaction in just folding and carrying laundry up the stairs. After resting, I made some coffee as it can count as part of my hydration and I really like my cup or two of coffee in the mornings. I realized I needed to rest for a bit, so I picked up my knitting (another sock) and worked quietly away while I rested. Hubby was very tired and sore as he had volunteered with Habitat for Humanity yesterday. Finally, my coffee was ready and I got my first cup. I sipped on it while I continued to knit. Hubby awoke and slowly made his way to the couch with his coffee. I feel so bad for him. I worry about him too because he is out of shape and he worked hard physically yesterday. Anyway, we enjoyed our coffees and then it was time for me to get my breakfast. My body was feeling better already.
After having my breakfast, I continued to knit until I finished the one sock. Now I was motivated to get decorating. But....it was now lunch time. So I made myself an omelet and a salad. After lunch, I managed to get the tree up but only partially decorated before I ran out of energy. While I was working on the tree, I was listening to Christmas music and then I found a lovely Christmas movie on television which I enjoyed.
In the afternoon, a parcel was delivered with my Hubby's name on it. I called and let him know it had arrived. He specifically told me not to open it. OK...Christmas is coming up and who knows what he has been buying and for whom. Also in the afternoon, a friend of mine delivered 3 jars of my favourite relish that she makes. What a gift! I love to use her relish on my sandwiches and hamburgers. Most likely, the jars won't last long.
Also, in the afternoon, Hubby called to say that he would pick up my pizza on his way home. He is off to a concert with another friend this evening and I was going to treat myself to a Hawaiian pizza from our favourite pizzeria in town. They make a great crust and their pizzas are never overdone. For those who don't know, a Hawaiian pizza has ham and pineapple along with the mozzarella cheese and pizza sauce. When Hubby arrived home, we enjoyed some pizza together. Then it was time for him to leave. I met his friend at the front door as I am also good friends with him. It was great to see him. He came to visit me while I was in the hospital and I really enjoyed my visit with him then. We're also friends with his wife who I last saw in September. Tonight, she sent with her hubby some gifts for me. She sent me a magazine and 2 soap pumps with Christmas scents. I have read the magazine tonight and then I watched some hockey and also the Christmas shows "Frosty the Snowman" and "Frosty Returns". These have been cartoons that I have watched since I was a child. It is part of the Christmas tradition.
I love Christmas and the season of Advent. I think my favourite part is Advent where I find my soul is prepared in a peaceful manner for the anticipation of Christmas. I am much more attuned to the sacred part of Christmas rather than the consumerism and materialism of Christmas. My favourite decorations in my home are the ones with a sacred meaning. I light my Advent wreath with its candles every day during Advent and reflect on the meaning of each week in Advent. I also love my nativity scene that includes a wooden stable that a very good friend made for me about 26 years ago. I also treasure my nativity decoration that hangs in the window. It used to have lights that would light it up at night but they stopped working a number of years ago and there is no way to fix it. I love this decoration in my window because during the day, the daylight brightness shines through it and makes it glow. I have even found some Christmas tree ornaments that show the 3 Kings following the star.
Christmas has always meant a lot to me. I remember being pregnant during Advent when my daughter was born on Christmas day. It is a very special time. On top of all this, I truly love the family time that we share over the holidays. I find this year I am feeling even more sentimental about Advent and Christmas due to my major illness and treatment. I have so much to be thankful for. I'm not just thankful for my health, but also for all my friends and family that have been so very supportive throughout the last number of months. No wonder I'm embracing life as best I can.
Wednesday, 22 November 2017
Day 22 and Day 23 - Rest, Concert and Graduation from the Stem Cell Unit
Day 22 - Rest and Concert - Tuesday, November 21, 2017
After my busy weekend, I rested all day Monday but did go shopping Monday night in order to get some walking and exercise. I rested a little more on Tuesday as I wanted to have enough energy to go to dinner and a concert with another couple. I did get some exercise on Tuesday by doing a load of laundry and hang it outside on the line. This tired me so I rested for the rest of the day.
Hubby came home from work to pick me up and go to the restaurant to meet another couple who are our friends. They very generously offered us 2 tickets to see "Simon & Garfunklel: The Story" at a local theatre. Our dinner was a great time of conversation and visiting. The concert was really well done. Although, I was a little tired, I totally enjoyed the music as I let it wash over me. I stayed awake through the whole concert but was tired at the end.
I was thirsty when Hubby and I got home. I believe it was the French fries that I had. After having a glass of milk, I went off to bed. I slept through the whole night! This is only the second time in many months.
Day 23 - Stem Cell Unit Check Up - Wednesday, November 22, 2017
After a busy night last night, I had an 8:00 a.m. appointment at the Stem Cell Unit this morning. I have much to be thankful for and also to celebrate! My blood counts are continuing to climb and are almost at the normal point. I didn't need any hydration today! Woo Hoo!!! This is a big accomplishment!
I received two surprises at my appointment this morning. Not only was my picc line removed but I have graduated from the Stem Cell Unit. My file will be transferred back to my hematologist for him to follow me at the Cancer Centre. I am so relieved to have the picc line removed! I get my best sleep when I sleep on my left side. Since August, I have had to sleep either on my back or on my right side. I've been sleeping best while on my back. I can now go back to sleeping on my left side. Let's hope that I will have better sleeps.
When Hubby picked me up from my appointment today, I told him my good news. His response was that we need to have a celebration tonight which translated means we'll go out for dinner before we do some shopping and walking tonight.
Life is good!
After my busy weekend, I rested all day Monday but did go shopping Monday night in order to get some walking and exercise. I rested a little more on Tuesday as I wanted to have enough energy to go to dinner and a concert with another couple. I did get some exercise on Tuesday by doing a load of laundry and hang it outside on the line. This tired me so I rested for the rest of the day.
Hubby came home from work to pick me up and go to the restaurant to meet another couple who are our friends. They very generously offered us 2 tickets to see "Simon & Garfunklel: The Story" at a local theatre. Our dinner was a great time of conversation and visiting. The concert was really well done. Although, I was a little tired, I totally enjoyed the music as I let it wash over me. I stayed awake through the whole concert but was tired at the end.
I was thirsty when Hubby and I got home. I believe it was the French fries that I had. After having a glass of milk, I went off to bed. I slept through the whole night! This is only the second time in many months.
Day 23 - Stem Cell Unit Check Up - Wednesday, November 22, 2017
After a busy night last night, I had an 8:00 a.m. appointment at the Stem Cell Unit this morning. I have much to be thankful for and also to celebrate! My blood counts are continuing to climb and are almost at the normal point. I didn't need any hydration today! Woo Hoo!!! This is a big accomplishment!
I received two surprises at my appointment this morning. Not only was my picc line removed but I have graduated from the Stem Cell Unit. My file will be transferred back to my hematologist for him to follow me at the Cancer Centre. I am so relieved to have the picc line removed! I get my best sleep when I sleep on my left side. Since August, I have had to sleep either on my back or on my right side. I've been sleeping best while on my back. I can now go back to sleeping on my left side. Let's hope that I will have better sleeps.
When Hubby picked me up from my appointment today, I told him my good news. His response was that we need to have a celebration tonight which translated means we'll go out for dinner before we do some shopping and walking tonight.
Life is good!
Sunday, 19 November 2017
Day 19 - Extended Family Christmas
After my check up on Thursday, I made the decision and plans to travel 4 hours on Friday to my brother's home. That's because yesterday was our extended family Christmas. This is when all my aunts, uncles, cousins, my siblings, my nieces and nephews, my cousins' children and also their children all get together for a Christmas dinner and gift exchange.
I look forward to this every year. The only people who are not there are the people who have passed away (my grandparents and my father). There are always lots of various conversations taking place at the same time. There is always lots of laughter. And there is always the happy sounds of children playing. There is always lots of food and it is a day of controlled chaos.
As I was heading into my stem cell portion of my treatment, I had let my cousin, who was hosting this year, know that I would not be able to make it. I expected that I would either still be in hospital or just being discharged. On Tuesday, November 14, I was feeling really good and had the kernel of an idea of attending the family Christmas. I mentioned it to Hubby and we decided to make our decision after my check up on November 16. My nurse practitioner gave me her blessing to attend as long as I ate well and stayed hydrated. I called my brother on Thursday and contacted my cousin to let them know I was making the 4 hour drive to the area and I would be there on Saturday.
On our drive to my brother's home on Friday, I fell asleep while we drove through Toronto. We had a lovely visit with my brother and sister-in-law on Friday night. I did go to bed early as I was tired and wanted to be rested for the Christmas party.
Yesterday, I awoke and had my breakfast and visited with my brother. Then it was just a time of relaxation as we waited for my son to arrive at my brother's and for my brother to go and pick up my mom. Neither my son or my mother knew I was in the area, let alone attending the family Christmas. While my brother was away to pick up my mom, my son arrived. He was very surprised and pleased to see me when he made his way into the room where I was relaxing. My mom was very surprised when I said, "Surprise!" from the bottom of the stairs as she came in the door. She had not noticed our car in the driveway. We all visited for a bit before it was time to leave for my cousin's home.
We were one of the first to arrive, so I found a comfy spot on the couch in my cousin's living room where I could see the front door. As my extended family arrived, I said "Merry Christmas!". The extended family was overjoyed to see me in attendance. We had tentatively planned to do a live video chat with me at home so that I could be part of the celebrations. Numerous family members mentioned that my being there in person was the best Christmas present. We all agreed that this was an extra special day.
I loved watching the little children play and run around. I loved visiting with my aunts and my uncles and my cousins a well as my siblings. This was a fantastic day. I ate a full turkey dinner with all the trimmings. I enjoyed my aunt's homemade pies. I enjoyed the casseroles for the dinner later on. I drank all the water I was supposed to. It was a fantastic day! I was very tired at the end and when Hubby took me back to my brother's home, I went right to bed. It was the first night in ages that I slept 9 hours straight. Perhaps it was too big a day, but I would do it again in an instant. Family is so important and it is worth making a long trip to see them all.
I look forward to this every year. The only people who are not there are the people who have passed away (my grandparents and my father). There are always lots of various conversations taking place at the same time. There is always lots of laughter. And there is always the happy sounds of children playing. There is always lots of food and it is a day of controlled chaos.
As I was heading into my stem cell portion of my treatment, I had let my cousin, who was hosting this year, know that I would not be able to make it. I expected that I would either still be in hospital or just being discharged. On Tuesday, November 14, I was feeling really good and had the kernel of an idea of attending the family Christmas. I mentioned it to Hubby and we decided to make our decision after my check up on November 16. My nurse practitioner gave me her blessing to attend as long as I ate well and stayed hydrated. I called my brother on Thursday and contacted my cousin to let them know I was making the 4 hour drive to the area and I would be there on Saturday.
On our drive to my brother's home on Friday, I fell asleep while we drove through Toronto. We had a lovely visit with my brother and sister-in-law on Friday night. I did go to bed early as I was tired and wanted to be rested for the Christmas party.
Yesterday, I awoke and had my breakfast and visited with my brother. Then it was just a time of relaxation as we waited for my son to arrive at my brother's and for my brother to go and pick up my mom. Neither my son or my mother knew I was in the area, let alone attending the family Christmas. While my brother was away to pick up my mom, my son arrived. He was very surprised and pleased to see me when he made his way into the room where I was relaxing. My mom was very surprised when I said, "Surprise!" from the bottom of the stairs as she came in the door. She had not noticed our car in the driveway. We all visited for a bit before it was time to leave for my cousin's home.
We were one of the first to arrive, so I found a comfy spot on the couch in my cousin's living room where I could see the front door. As my extended family arrived, I said "Merry Christmas!". The extended family was overjoyed to see me in attendance. We had tentatively planned to do a live video chat with me at home so that I could be part of the celebrations. Numerous family members mentioned that my being there in person was the best Christmas present. We all agreed that this was an extra special day.
I loved watching the little children play and run around. I loved visiting with my aunts and my uncles and my cousins a well as my siblings. This was a fantastic day. I ate a full turkey dinner with all the trimmings. I enjoyed my aunt's homemade pies. I enjoyed the casseroles for the dinner later on. I drank all the water I was supposed to. It was a fantastic day! I was very tired at the end and when Hubby took me back to my brother's home, I went right to bed. It was the first night in ages that I slept 9 hours straight. Perhaps it was too big a day, but I would do it again in an instant. Family is so important and it is worth making a long trip to see them all.
Thursday, 16 November 2017
Day 17 - Check Up and Living Life Fully
This morning I had a check up at the Stem Cell Unit. My blood levels were all good and I didn't need any boosts. After chatting with the Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to drinking tons of liquid and getting my exercise. We are going to try a trial run of no supplemental hydration. I have been given permission to enjoy some activities where I am surrounded by lots of people.
I will have another check up next week and hopefully, if all goes well, my check ups will become weekly and I will have my picc line removed next week. This would be wonderful as it is in my left arm. I have always slept best by sleeping on my left side. For the last number of months, I've had to sleep on my back so I'm really looking forward to being able to return to the most comfortable position of sleeping on my left side.
I'm so excited to be able to visit people and go to an upcoming concert on Tuesday. Hubby and I have been invited to attend a Simon & Garfunkel tribute band concert with some friends. I'm really excited and looking forward to seeing our friends and going to the concert. I am really ready to enjoy life fully. I will build in time to recover and rest but it is so exciting to participate in some of the upcoming Christmas activities as well. I am ready to celebrate life and embrace all opportunities to enjoy family and friends. Life is short but now is the time to reward myself for the trials of the last number of months. Now is the time to enjoy life to the fullest.
I will have another check up next week and hopefully, if all goes well, my check ups will become weekly and I will have my picc line removed next week. This would be wonderful as it is in my left arm. I have always slept best by sleeping on my left side. For the last number of months, I've had to sleep on my back so I'm really looking forward to being able to return to the most comfortable position of sleeping on my left side.
I'm so excited to be able to visit people and go to an upcoming concert on Tuesday. Hubby and I have been invited to attend a Simon & Garfunkel tribute band concert with some friends. I'm really excited and looking forward to seeing our friends and going to the concert. I am really ready to enjoy life fully. I will build in time to recover and rest but it is so exciting to participate in some of the upcoming Christmas activities as well. I am ready to celebrate life and embrace all opportunities to enjoy family and friends. Life is short but now is the time to reward myself for the trials of the last number of months. Now is the time to enjoy life to the fullest.
Wednesday, 15 November 2017
Day 16 - Exercise and Hydration
I continue to have to strive to walk more and drink more liquid. After chemotherapy, people are more susceptible to getting dehydrated very quickly and without realizing it. Today, I had another one litre of saline solution by IV. I really want to get off of this and I'm really trying to drink enough liquid and stay hydrated. I also have to walk more so that it will help boost the blood levels. So tonight, Hubby and I finally made our way to the local mall to walk for exercise. I managed to walk 75% of the mall before I had to sit and rest. I walked farther than I expected myself to be able to do. I walk slower than I used to, but I'm hoping that eventually I'll get my speed up again.
Today, I struggled with lack of appetite and some nausea. I believe the nausea was caused by having a hungry stomach and I was late feeding it. Unfortunately, at that point, the food I ate didn't stay down. I waited for my stomach to settle while I continued to drink some tea. Then this afternoon, I was able to eat a banana and it stayed down. I'm hoping it will help to boost my potassium.
Today I really felt cold for most of the day and I was wrapped in both my prayer shawls. My cat, Frodo, helped to keep my legs warm by sleeping on them all afternoon and evening. I continue to spend my time knitting socks. Yesterday, I started on the second red sock of the size Large pair that I'm working on. I hope to finish it tomorrow. Then, I'll probably start a pair of size Small red socks.
Tomorrow morning, I have a check up at the Stem Cell Unit and I'm hoping that I can convince the nurse practitioner that I don't need supplemental hydration anymore. We'll see how the appointment goes.
Today, I struggled with lack of appetite and some nausea. I believe the nausea was caused by having a hungry stomach and I was late feeding it. Unfortunately, at that point, the food I ate didn't stay down. I waited for my stomach to settle while I continued to drink some tea. Then this afternoon, I was able to eat a banana and it stayed down. I'm hoping it will help to boost my potassium.
Today I really felt cold for most of the day and I was wrapped in both my prayer shawls. My cat, Frodo, helped to keep my legs warm by sleeping on them all afternoon and evening. I continue to spend my time knitting socks. Yesterday, I started on the second red sock of the size Large pair that I'm working on. I hope to finish it tomorrow. Then, I'll probably start a pair of size Small red socks.
Tomorrow morning, I have a check up at the Stem Cell Unit and I'm hoping that I can convince the nurse practitioner that I don't need supplemental hydration anymore. We'll see how the appointment goes.
Monday, 13 November 2017
Day 14 - My Daughter's Visit
This morning I had a follow up appointment at the Stem Cell Unit to have my blood tested and make the levels are where they are supposed to be. All the levels were normal and I didn't need any kind of blood transfusion. However, my potassium levels were low and I had to have potassium put into me via IV. I was also scheduled to have a litre of saline solution put into me by IV at home using the CBI Health nurse. The Stem Cell Unit nurse combined my potassium and 1 litre saline solution together so that I could cancel the home visit this afternoon.
The nurse practitioner in the Stem Cell Unit decided that we should try hydrating me using IV every other day to see if I can get myself hydrated by drinking liquid on the off days. I believe we are trying to wean me off of the IV which I would be happy with.
After my 2 hour IV hydration this morning, I went to the Volunteer Services office at the hospital to deliver a medium size pair of socks for the upcoming Hospital Auxiliary Bazaar. I enjoyed a visit with the staff in the office and then made my way to my former manager's office to say a brief hello to her and my former co-worker. It was great to see them. As I walked the long hallway towards the front of the hospital to meet my Hubby for lunch, I kept running into people I knew. One of these was a buyer for the Gift Shop and I really enjoyed our brief visit in the hallway. Not only did I enjoy her company, but I was needing the short break to catch my breath from the long walk.
I met Hubby and my daughter at the front and off we went to have lunch together at our favourite Vietnamese restaurant. I totally enjoyed our meal and spending time with my daughter and hubby. Our daughter had decided that she will make supper for us tonight.
So late in the afternoon, Hubby and my daughter left to go to a chiropractor appointment together and then off to the grocery store to buy the ingredients for supper. As I waited at home, I was eagerly looking forward to the salmon dinner that was going to be prepared by our daughter. While they were away, I drank lots of tea in an effort to get in the habit of hydrating myself.
Finally Hubby and my daughter arrived home. She was very efficient in the kitchen and before we knew it, dinner was served. What an incredible gift this was that she gave us. The salmon was perfectly done and very tasty. It had garlic butter and rosemary on the top which was crusted to create a tender inside of the salmon filet. She served it with steamed broccoli which was again perfectly done and a Caesar salad. She served it all with an Inniskillin Late Autumn Riesling white wine.
I'm so proud that both my children can cook fantastic meals. My daughter's gift of this meal totally impressed me. I'm so happy that I'm around to see my children continue to grow into fantastic adults. My visit with my daughter is coming to an end much too soon as she will return home tomorrow. I'm so grateful for my day today. It was a great day!
The nurse practitioner in the Stem Cell Unit decided that we should try hydrating me using IV every other day to see if I can get myself hydrated by drinking liquid on the off days. I believe we are trying to wean me off of the IV which I would be happy with.
After my 2 hour IV hydration this morning, I went to the Volunteer Services office at the hospital to deliver a medium size pair of socks for the upcoming Hospital Auxiliary Bazaar. I enjoyed a visit with the staff in the office and then made my way to my former manager's office to say a brief hello to her and my former co-worker. It was great to see them. As I walked the long hallway towards the front of the hospital to meet my Hubby for lunch, I kept running into people I knew. One of these was a buyer for the Gift Shop and I really enjoyed our brief visit in the hallway. Not only did I enjoy her company, but I was needing the short break to catch my breath from the long walk.
I met Hubby and my daughter at the front and off we went to have lunch together at our favourite Vietnamese restaurant. I totally enjoyed our meal and spending time with my daughter and hubby. Our daughter had decided that she will make supper for us tonight.
So late in the afternoon, Hubby and my daughter left to go to a chiropractor appointment together and then off to the grocery store to buy the ingredients for supper. As I waited at home, I was eagerly looking forward to the salmon dinner that was going to be prepared by our daughter. While they were away, I drank lots of tea in an effort to get in the habit of hydrating myself.
Finally Hubby and my daughter arrived home. She was very efficient in the kitchen and before we knew it, dinner was served. What an incredible gift this was that she gave us. The salmon was perfectly done and very tasty. It had garlic butter and rosemary on the top which was crusted to create a tender inside of the salmon filet. She served it with steamed broccoli which was again perfectly done and a Caesar salad. She served it all with an Inniskillin Late Autumn Riesling white wine.
I'm so proud that both my children can cook fantastic meals. My daughter's gift of this meal totally impressed me. I'm so happy that I'm around to see my children continue to grow into fantastic adults. My visit with my daughter is coming to an end much too soon as she will return home tomorrow. I'm so grateful for my day today. It was a great day!
Day 13 - Good Health and Family
As I'm at home and convalescing, I have time to reflect on my good health and my family. I say "good health" because I am in remission. The stem cell transplant worked. My body is creating its own stem cells once again. The follicular lymphoma is in remission. We don't know for how long and I am at peace with that. I will not waste a single day. My son has been home visiting this weekend and this was his last day. He left a little later than intended to return home but I fully enjoyed the extra time with him.
Literally about 30 minutes after my son left, my daughter arrived for her own visit with us. I haven't seen her since August and it was wonderful to cuddle with her on the couch while I had my saline solution IV attached to me. Family is so important and as a result, our phone was busy today with lots of family calling to chat. I was able to visit with my uncle and aunt-in-laws from Scotland. I got to visit with my father-in-law from Victoria, BC. I visited with my mother who lives 4 hours away. I also got to visit with my brother who also lives 4 hours away. The phone lines were busy today but family is so important.
Friends are also important and when there is no family close by, friends often become like our second family. The support of everyone during these last 3 months and for the upcoming months is so important. It lifts my spirits and it gives me a sense of a net underneath the tightrope of crisis.
In the next number of weeks and months, I will be working on getting stronger, walking farther and building my stamina. Now is the time for me to tap into my determination and get back to "normal". I may have to learn that there is a new normal but my goal is to get back to my old normal. It all will start with baby steps and slowly build to running steps.
I've been asked what should people pray for specifically for me. I pray every day that this lymphoma will be in remission for a long time. That's a little general so what does a "long time" mean. To me, it means 5 to 10 years or longer. That is my fervent wish and I do pray for this every day. My hope is the longer I am in remission, the better chance they might find a cure for follicular lymphoma.
Literally about 30 minutes after my son left, my daughter arrived for her own visit with us. I haven't seen her since August and it was wonderful to cuddle with her on the couch while I had my saline solution IV attached to me. Family is so important and as a result, our phone was busy today with lots of family calling to chat. I was able to visit with my uncle and aunt-in-laws from Scotland. I got to visit with my father-in-law from Victoria, BC. I visited with my mother who lives 4 hours away. I also got to visit with my brother who also lives 4 hours away. The phone lines were busy today but family is so important.
Friends are also important and when there is no family close by, friends often become like our second family. The support of everyone during these last 3 months and for the upcoming months is so important. It lifts my spirits and it gives me a sense of a net underneath the tightrope of crisis.
In the next number of weeks and months, I will be working on getting stronger, walking farther and building my stamina. Now is the time for me to tap into my determination and get back to "normal". I may have to learn that there is a new normal but my goal is to get back to my old normal. It all will start with baby steps and slowly build to running steps.
I've been asked what should people pray for specifically for me. I pray every day that this lymphoma will be in remission for a long time. That's a little general so what does a "long time" mean. To me, it means 5 to 10 years or longer. That is my fervent wish and I do pray for this every day. My hope is the longer I am in remission, the better chance they might find a cure for follicular lymphoma.
Sunday, 12 November 2017
Day 11 and Day 12 - Discharged and At Home
Day 11 - Friday, November 10 - Discharged
My blood was taken early as usual in the hospital. I needed to have 2 pouches of potassium and one pouch of magnesium as well as a blood transfusion (hemoglobin - red blood cells) and a litre of saline solution for hydration. This all had to go into me through the IV. The nurse started it as early as she could but this meant that my discharge time was going to be delayed until later in the day.
I spent my time while on the IV, knitting my socks. In one of the earlier posts, someone asked how many socks had I knit so far. As of my discharge day, I had knit 5 pairs of socks (2 small, 2 medium and 1 large).
While I was on the IV, Hubby was at home madly cleaning and getting the house ready for my return. A very good friend of ours came over to help him out. She does not know how much this meant to us. Eventually, I was able to call Hubby and tell him that he could pick me up around 2:00. However, I ended up not be ready to be discharged until closer to 3:00.
At that point, I was allowed to ring the gong on Kidd 9. Patients get to do this when they are discharged and in remission. I made the most of the moment to thank the nurses and then with the mallet, I struck the gong like a true musician. And also like a musician, I was able to dampen and end the ringing using my hand. I guess this is not always the case and the gong rings on. Hubby and I left the ward carrying my belongings and made the walk to the elevators. That walk was long enough and I was already tired. I was happy to reach the front doors of the hospital and to see there was a chair where I could rest with my belongings around me while Hubby got the car.
The day tired me out so I relaxed on our lazy boy couch. My son came home to visit and arrived just before dinner. Hubby asked me what I would like to have for dinner and I suggested Chinese food. We ordered a take out order from our favourite Chinese restaurant. What an enjoyable meal it was!
Day 12 - Saturday, November 11 - At Home
I did not realize how exhausting it would be to return home. I have so many more steps to take to get to my bathroom and to my bed than I did in the hospital. I am having to rest on my couch often. While I rest, I continue to knit my socks. I started a new pair (size Large) and I continue to use yarn from past projects. So this pair of socks will be bright red. I was so happy to be home and able to watch the Remembrance Day ceremonies on television. I chose not to have television while I was in the hospital so I am glad to be home and not miss the ceremonies today.
This afternoon, the home health nurse came by to give me my saline solution. I guess my doctor ordered that I receive on litre of saline solution for today, tomorrow and Monday so that I am hydrated. The nurse arrived and got me all hooked up. She then showed Hubby how to unhook me and then throw the lines and used bag in the trash. Hubby was happy to learn something new.
In the afternoon, a couple that we are friends with, came by to deliver our dinner and also to have a visit. What an enjoyable visit it was and it helped pass the time while I was on the IV. Our visit was full of laughter and celebration as she and I were both celebrating our respective victories and joys. And the dinner that was left for us was fantastic. They brought us ham and scalloped potatoes. My appetite isn't very big right now but I fully enjoyed what I did eat. She also surprised us with some chocolate chip cookies. Who can resist chocolate chip cookies especially with a cold glass of milk!
I seem to hit a wall around 7 p.m. At that point, my brain starts to shut down and my body is ready to go to bed. I've been having early nights and am sleeping most of the night. I'm glad to be home.
My blood was taken early as usual in the hospital. I needed to have 2 pouches of potassium and one pouch of magnesium as well as a blood transfusion (hemoglobin - red blood cells) and a litre of saline solution for hydration. This all had to go into me through the IV. The nurse started it as early as she could but this meant that my discharge time was going to be delayed until later in the day.
I spent my time while on the IV, knitting my socks. In one of the earlier posts, someone asked how many socks had I knit so far. As of my discharge day, I had knit 5 pairs of socks (2 small, 2 medium and 1 large).
While I was on the IV, Hubby was at home madly cleaning and getting the house ready for my return. A very good friend of ours came over to help him out. She does not know how much this meant to us. Eventually, I was able to call Hubby and tell him that he could pick me up around 2:00. However, I ended up not be ready to be discharged until closer to 3:00.
At that point, I was allowed to ring the gong on Kidd 9. Patients get to do this when they are discharged and in remission. I made the most of the moment to thank the nurses and then with the mallet, I struck the gong like a true musician. And also like a musician, I was able to dampen and end the ringing using my hand. I guess this is not always the case and the gong rings on. Hubby and I left the ward carrying my belongings and made the walk to the elevators. That walk was long enough and I was already tired. I was happy to reach the front doors of the hospital and to see there was a chair where I could rest with my belongings around me while Hubby got the car.
The day tired me out so I relaxed on our lazy boy couch. My son came home to visit and arrived just before dinner. Hubby asked me what I would like to have for dinner and I suggested Chinese food. We ordered a take out order from our favourite Chinese restaurant. What an enjoyable meal it was!
Day 12 - Saturday, November 11 - At Home
I did not realize how exhausting it would be to return home. I have so many more steps to take to get to my bathroom and to my bed than I did in the hospital. I am having to rest on my couch often. While I rest, I continue to knit my socks. I started a new pair (size Large) and I continue to use yarn from past projects. So this pair of socks will be bright red. I was so happy to be home and able to watch the Remembrance Day ceremonies on television. I chose not to have television while I was in the hospital so I am glad to be home and not miss the ceremonies today.
This afternoon, the home health nurse came by to give me my saline solution. I guess my doctor ordered that I receive on litre of saline solution for today, tomorrow and Monday so that I am hydrated. The nurse arrived and got me all hooked up. She then showed Hubby how to unhook me and then throw the lines and used bag in the trash. Hubby was happy to learn something new.
In the afternoon, a couple that we are friends with, came by to deliver our dinner and also to have a visit. What an enjoyable visit it was and it helped pass the time while I was on the IV. Our visit was full of laughter and celebration as she and I were both celebrating our respective victories and joys. And the dinner that was left for us was fantastic. They brought us ham and scalloped potatoes. My appetite isn't very big right now but I fully enjoyed what I did eat. She also surprised us with some chocolate chip cookies. Who can resist chocolate chip cookies especially with a cold glass of milk!
I seem to hit a wall around 7 p.m. At that point, my brain starts to shut down and my body is ready to go to bed. I've been having early nights and am sleeping most of the night. I'm glad to be home.
Thursday, 9 November 2017
Day 9 and Day 10 Post-Stem Cell Transplant
Day 9 - More of the same
I still continue to have waves of nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. My day was spent trying to survive. This is why Hubby and I were surprised when we were informed that I could be going home as early as Thursday or Friday.
The reason for this surprise is that my white cell blood counts have started to rise. This means my "new" stem cells have taken hold and are multiplying well. Hubby and I were concerned about if we were ready to have me home yet.
Fortunately, or unfortunately, I developed a fever around midnight. I had to have a chest x-ray done. Blood had to be taken and sent down to be tested for cultures and bacteria counts. This may delay the going home date.
Day 10 - All Blood Counts are Rising
Today's blood testing showed all my counts rising. This is where the doctors want to see it. For me it has happened a day earlier than the doctors expected. My fever from last night broke in the middle of the night but I am still on the antibiotics that were prescribed for me by the doctor last night. One of the side effects of this medicine is diarrhea. Great.....more and more. However, at least I can have Immodium to keep it under control.
This afternoon, my hubby and a good friend of mine visited for part of the afternoon. Again, it looks like I will be discharged tomorrow (Friday). So I went ahead and packed up what I didn't really need for the day and hubby took it home with him.
If you are planning to visit tomorrow, I would suggest that you don't. I don't know what time I'm getting discharged but I would feel terrible if a trip was made to the hospital to visit me and I wasn't here. I will be able to have visitors at home though.
I still continue to have waves of nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. My day was spent trying to survive. This is why Hubby and I were surprised when we were informed that I could be going home as early as Thursday or Friday.
The reason for this surprise is that my white cell blood counts have started to rise. This means my "new" stem cells have taken hold and are multiplying well. Hubby and I were concerned about if we were ready to have me home yet.
Fortunately, or unfortunately, I developed a fever around midnight. I had to have a chest x-ray done. Blood had to be taken and sent down to be tested for cultures and bacteria counts. This may delay the going home date.
Day 10 - All Blood Counts are Rising
Today's blood testing showed all my counts rising. This is where the doctors want to see it. For me it has happened a day earlier than the doctors expected. My fever from last night broke in the middle of the night but I am still on the antibiotics that were prescribed for me by the doctor last night. One of the side effects of this medicine is diarrhea. Great.....more and more. However, at least I can have Immodium to keep it under control.
This afternoon, my hubby and a good friend of mine visited for part of the afternoon. Again, it looks like I will be discharged tomorrow (Friday). So I went ahead and packed up what I didn't really need for the day and hubby took it home with him.
If you are planning to visit tomorrow, I would suggest that you don't. I don't know what time I'm getting discharged but I would feel terrible if a trip was made to the hospital to visit me and I wasn't here. I will be able to have visitors at home though.
Tuesday, 7 November 2017
Day 8 - Surviving
At this point, I could just copy and paste my posts from the previous few days. Not much has changed. I didn't need any blood transfusions today but I did need to have some magnesium put into me. My best friend came for a brief visit this morning just as the magnesium was being put into me. Unfortunately, there were tons of tiny air bubbles in the IV line and the machine kept beeping and making it difficult to visit with my friend. Not only was there constant beeping but the nurses had to come in and try to fix the problem. However, it was fun to see my friend's husband down at street level from my room on the 9th floor. Once my friend texted him, he looked up and we waved at him. That was the end of the visit.
I slept a lot today but I am still tired. I was also feeling really cold today. I decided to wear my head covering to see if it would keep me warmer. It worked while I slept. So tonight, I have it on. I believe that by the weekend, I'm supposed to start feeling better. One day at a time........
Hubby came to visit this afternoon and I slept most of the time. However, when I woke up, he informed me of the death of Roy Halladay who was a retired baseball pitcher. He was our son's favourite player. So hubby and I reminisced about the time we went to a game on my hubby's birthday and saw Roy Halladay pitch. It was a family highlight for all of us.
The death of Roy Halladay reminded me, yet again, how short life is. He died doing something he enjoyed which was flying a plane. He was a licenced pilot and this was his dream life in retirement. I'm going through this process and feeling miserable but I know that I will feel better and then I can, again, live life to the absolute fullest. Seize the day! Carpe Diem!
I slept a lot today but I am still tired. I was also feeling really cold today. I decided to wear my head covering to see if it would keep me warmer. It worked while I slept. So tonight, I have it on. I believe that by the weekend, I'm supposed to start feeling better. One day at a time........
Hubby came to visit this afternoon and I slept most of the time. However, when I woke up, he informed me of the death of Roy Halladay who was a retired baseball pitcher. He was our son's favourite player. So hubby and I reminisced about the time we went to a game on my hubby's birthday and saw Roy Halladay pitch. It was a family highlight for all of us.
The death of Roy Halladay reminded me, yet again, how short life is. He died doing something he enjoyed which was flying a plane. He was a licenced pilot and this was his dream life in retirement. I'm going through this process and feeling miserable but I know that I will feel better and then I can, again, live life to the absolute fullest. Seize the day! Carpe Diem!
Monday, 6 November 2017
Day 6 and Day 7 - Tired, nausea and side effects
Day 6 - Sunday, November 5
All I can say is that I am tired, my bowels are out of control and I feel sick. This was a day of just getting through it.
Day 7 - Monday, November 6
Today was a better day. I can now have medication for my bowels as it has been proven it is not C Difficile that is affecting me. I'm still light-headed and need to have someone walk with me if I decide to walk the halls. Walking the halls helps my blood pressure stay up which is better for me. I'm tired most of the day. Today I was sitting in my chair knitting in the morning. This afternoon, I was in bed and asleep.
We'll see what tomorrow brings. I am allowed visitors. If I leave my room, I have to wear a mask.
All I can say is that I am tired, my bowels are out of control and I feel sick. This was a day of just getting through it.
Day 7 - Monday, November 6
Today was a better day. I can now have medication for my bowels as it has been proven it is not C Difficile that is affecting me. I'm still light-headed and need to have someone walk with me if I decide to walk the halls. Walking the halls helps my blood pressure stay up which is better for me. I'm tired most of the day. Today I was sitting in my chair knitting in the morning. This afternoon, I was in bed and asleep.
We'll see what tomorrow brings. I am allowed visitors. If I leave my room, I have to wear a mask.
Saturday, 4 November 2017
Day 5 - On the Side Effect Ride
I wasn't able to post the last couple of days due to some internet issues with my laptop here at the hospital. This afternoon, Hubby arrived and got it all working again for me. So I'm up and able to post again.
Basically not much has changed. My blood levels continue to go down due to the High Dose Chemo I had a week ago. The side effects of this chemo also is the killing off all the fast growing cells. This means the whole GI tract is shedding its lining. This mean the mouth is tender with canker sores although so far I've been able to keep ahead of them and so I have no open sores. The other fast growing cells are my hair. It is falling out although I'm still able to go around with a head covering.
For me, I am getting tired of the GI tract sloughing its old cells. This causes nausea, indigestion and many trips to the washroom. The nurses are great at keeping me on medications that combat the nausea and indigestion. I have about another week of this before I will start to feel better.
As I mentioned earlier, my blood levels are dropping. Today, my nurse told me that I may get a blood transfusion on Monday to help boost the levels back up. Today, I received my first shot of Neupogen to stimulate my new stem cells to grow and multiply.
I feel cold and shivery but I don't have a fever. I tire really easily and I am hesitant to walk the ward by myself. I don't want to fall. I also am needing to make sure I'm close to my washroom. I, jokingly, told Hubby today that I'm getting my walking/running exercise with the many dashes to the washroom.
There is definitely a rhythmic routine to this Oncology Ward. My body has adjusted and I am now waking up in the middle of the night just before my nurse will come in to check my vital signs. This includes checking my temperature, blood pressure and pulse rate. They are looking for the first tell-tale signs of infection through a raised temperature. I have blood taken from me every morning about 4:30 so it can be sent to the lab to be tested. Right now, my white blood cells are non-existent so I have to wear a mask if I leave my room. I've been advised to avoid children and anyone who has a cold.
Around 10:00 a.m., the nurse will come in and fill out my chart so I can see how the levels compare to the day before. I continue to fill my hours with knitting and colouring an adult colouring book.
Basically not much has changed. My blood levels continue to go down due to the High Dose Chemo I had a week ago. The side effects of this chemo also is the killing off all the fast growing cells. This means the whole GI tract is shedding its lining. This mean the mouth is tender with canker sores although so far I've been able to keep ahead of them and so I have no open sores. The other fast growing cells are my hair. It is falling out although I'm still able to go around with a head covering.
For me, I am getting tired of the GI tract sloughing its old cells. This causes nausea, indigestion and many trips to the washroom. The nurses are great at keeping me on medications that combat the nausea and indigestion. I have about another week of this before I will start to feel better.
As I mentioned earlier, my blood levels are dropping. Today, my nurse told me that I may get a blood transfusion on Monday to help boost the levels back up. Today, I received my first shot of Neupogen to stimulate my new stem cells to grow and multiply.
I feel cold and shivery but I don't have a fever. I tire really easily and I am hesitant to walk the ward by myself. I don't want to fall. I also am needing to make sure I'm close to my washroom. I, jokingly, told Hubby today that I'm getting my walking/running exercise with the many dashes to the washroom.
There is definitely a rhythmic routine to this Oncology Ward. My body has adjusted and I am now waking up in the middle of the night just before my nurse will come in to check my vital signs. This includes checking my temperature, blood pressure and pulse rate. They are looking for the first tell-tale signs of infection through a raised temperature. I have blood taken from me every morning about 4:30 so it can be sent to the lab to be tested. Right now, my white blood cells are non-existent so I have to wear a mask if I leave my room. I've been advised to avoid children and anyone who has a cold.
Around 10:00 a.m., the nurse will come in and fill out my chart so I can see how the levels compare to the day before. I continue to fill my hours with knitting and colouring an adult colouring book.
Wednesday, 1 November 2017
Day 2 - Levels Dip and Tiredness
I have now recognized the routine of the hospital and my body is waking accordingly. This morning I awoke at 6:50 which was a little later than usual but I couldn't seem to get the energy to get up and start my morning routine. Next thing I knew, it was 7:15 and I knew the day nurse would be coming in soon to introduce herself and take my vitals. I just struggled to force myself to get up and going.
I was given another 2 hours of saline solution this morning along with magnesium to boost the magnesium level. My blood is taken from me around 4:30 or 5:00 a.m. every morning and sent to be tested. I have a chart in my room that makes it easy to see the blood levels and where they are compared to the day or days before. Today my counts were definitely down in all areas although most are still in the adequate range. But this is why I'm feeling more tired and lethargic. It will only get worse.
I passed my time this morning continuing with my knitting. Once I was finished the IV solutions, I took advantage of the freedom from the IV pole and went walking 3 laps around the floor. I ran into a volunteer who was working on the floor and she recognized me from when I worked in the Tuck Shop. Another volunteer had been wondering if I wanted visitors so I indicated to this one that, yes, I like visitors. Then I was tired. My morning also involves visits from the medical student who is working with me. She is very nice and we were able to enjoy a laugh this morning as she went about her duties. The med student reports to my stem cell doctor every day so there is no gaps in information.
Late this morning, a friend came by just as I was bored and I was so happy to see her. She was on her way in to volunteer in the hospital and came early just to see me. We had a lovely visit and then it was time for my lunch to come.
My lunch went down well and although it was a light lunch, it filled me up. Just after lunch, the heads on my picc line needed to be changed so the nurse was in. She is a lovely lady but was run off her feet. She got called away to help another nurse. When she came back, the volunteer who was wondering if I wanted visitors also arrived at the same time. We had a nice visit while the nurse worked. The volunteer stood on the other side of the room for sterilization purposes and it kept my attention from what my nurse was doing. Thus, I was not contaminating the process either.
By 2:00 I was feeling pretty tired and finally took my nurse's advice at 2:30 and laid down for a nap. Just as I was awaking from the nap, another friend came to visit as part of my church's pastoral care. We had a lovely chat and I really appreciated him taking the time to come and see me. His prayer at the end reminded me again that I'm in God's keeping but also in the safety net of all my friends and family that a behind me too. I especially liked that the prayer touched on the wellbeing of my children and hubby. This is hard on them too.
I continue to be tired tonight and will have any early evening. The downward slide progresses but as my nurse tonight said, it is all going according to the plan.
I was given another 2 hours of saline solution this morning along with magnesium to boost the magnesium level. My blood is taken from me around 4:30 or 5:00 a.m. every morning and sent to be tested. I have a chart in my room that makes it easy to see the blood levels and where they are compared to the day or days before. Today my counts were definitely down in all areas although most are still in the adequate range. But this is why I'm feeling more tired and lethargic. It will only get worse.
I passed my time this morning continuing with my knitting. Once I was finished the IV solutions, I took advantage of the freedom from the IV pole and went walking 3 laps around the floor. I ran into a volunteer who was working on the floor and she recognized me from when I worked in the Tuck Shop. Another volunteer had been wondering if I wanted visitors so I indicated to this one that, yes, I like visitors. Then I was tired. My morning also involves visits from the medical student who is working with me. She is very nice and we were able to enjoy a laugh this morning as she went about her duties. The med student reports to my stem cell doctor every day so there is no gaps in information.
Late this morning, a friend came by just as I was bored and I was so happy to see her. She was on her way in to volunteer in the hospital and came early just to see me. We had a lovely visit and then it was time for my lunch to come.
My lunch went down well and although it was a light lunch, it filled me up. Just after lunch, the heads on my picc line needed to be changed so the nurse was in. She is a lovely lady but was run off her feet. She got called away to help another nurse. When she came back, the volunteer who was wondering if I wanted visitors also arrived at the same time. We had a nice visit while the nurse worked. The volunteer stood on the other side of the room for sterilization purposes and it kept my attention from what my nurse was doing. Thus, I was not contaminating the process either.
By 2:00 I was feeling pretty tired and finally took my nurse's advice at 2:30 and laid down for a nap. Just as I was awaking from the nap, another friend came to visit as part of my church's pastoral care. We had a lovely chat and I really appreciated him taking the time to come and see me. His prayer at the end reminded me again that I'm in God's keeping but also in the safety net of all my friends and family that a behind me too. I especially liked that the prayer touched on the wellbeing of my children and hubby. This is hard on them too.
I continue to be tired tonight and will have any early evening. The downward slide progresses but as my nurse tonight said, it is all going according to the plan.
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