I am down to just seven more radiation treatments (including today’s), unless they give me a “boost”, which could be up to three more treatments at a higher dose. We’ll talk with the radiation oncologist next Monday to determine whether we have the boost or not. Right now, I vote “not”. Of course, it just depends on how helpful the boost might be. I can endure even more if it means successful results, such as an even greater reduction in the size of the tumor. Of course, we don’t know that there has been a reduction in my tumor, but I am thinking there has been. And we won’t have any objective data on Monday to say how effective the treatment has been. One thing that makes me believe it has been effective is that my back pain is essentially gone.
A patient at Piper re-introduced himself to us yesterday. He started chemotherapy treatment after I did, and his goal at the beginning of treatment was to be doing as well as I was doing. Right now he is doing better than I am! I told him that things have reversed – I want to be doing as well as he is doing. I told him I’d get there, but that I just need to get over a bump or two first.
One thing that helps me get better emotionally and physically is the nice long walks I take with Cathy in the morning. We went on one today, and to my delight Cathy walked the entire distance with me (she skipped a run today). We didn’t walk all that far or all that fast, but it was a pleasant walk filled with pleasant conversation. I feel close to her on these walks … she is so supportive.
After the walk I had a bowl of oatmeal. It tasted good and so far it is staying in my stomach. That is a real accomplishment these days. I may have some oatmeal for lunch as well. I need to find foods that taste good and stay in my stomach. I need to at least maintain my weight, which I’m not doing. I am losing about a pound a week. It would be worse without the TPN, which gives me important nutrients and calories. Although it is a bit of work to hook me up in the evenings, it is definitely worth it, as I would be losing considerably more weight without the TPN. I am so glad the Piper group is looking out after me. They are so caring.
I feel so fortunate to have so many caring people looking out after me, including members of Team Bacon. Thank you so much for all your support!