Tuesday, September 6, 2011

End of Treatment!

Friday was my last day of radiation and chemo after  20 straight days ( (weekends off)! I am feeling better as the day to day hits are no longer a part of my regime.
My skin is burned over a fairly large area, but no complications as of yet. I believe using pure aloe vera gel helps tremendously! As soon as my treatment was over I would apply it immediately and then once or twice more during the day. Continuing to do so.
The Xeloda (oral chemo) messed my stomach up, made my bones and joints hurt, caused insomnia and incredible fatigue, but all that too is improving.
During the last week of treatment I also had to have a Faslodex injection. Those also tend to cause insomnia and bone/joint pain for the first 2-3 days. Needless to say I am a mess with sleep patterns and fatigue right now.

Overall I think I faired well. Only had to cancel 2 of my 4 running groups and honestly I don't think anyone would have come with the terrible heat we had this summer. Dangerously hot for runners. Can't say I was too upset about that.
Otherwise, I was able to continue teaching my GroupFit and Personal training classes, taking just the very last week off. Teaching all four sessions of my "Little Swimmers" was, as always a joy!

Exercise and nutrition...well, that went well for the first 2 weeks and then downhill. I am anxious to run again and have been drinking lots of smoothies, and veggie juices as my stomach is still not back to "normal".

The Thank you List!!
There were so many people who brought us dinners. Thank you to everyone, it was and continues to be so much help! Also to my "drivers" Matt and Vicki..a big thank you for your company and keeping me from falling asleep or getting lost. Chemo brain big time! To  Vince, who I spent 10 minutes with every day as he administered the radiation. It makes such a difference when your health care professionals are as kind,patient and respectful as Vince was. Then to all of you for your thoughts, prayers, cards, emails and FB messages!
I prayed before my last radiation that I would be healed and never have to return to this place.Before I took my last dose of chemo, Chris and I again prayed the same thing.
So glad it is over and pray it remains so. Follow up with both doctors in 2 weeks.

4 comments:

Kim said...

Yah! Yippee! What a journey you have been on--Congrats on finishing this leg of the race. You are an inspiration!
PS. Still plan on sending you something in the mail...time just keeps getting away from me.

Retired Knitter said...

You are one tough lady! So glad that this treatment is over. My prayers for you and your family.

Vicky said...

Wow! I dream of hearing those words even though I am told that I shouldn't ever expect that in all reality. So to read your words gives me encouragement like nothing else! Prayers for healing coming your way :)

Maryann said...

Congrtulations on being finished. You are definately an inspiration. Will keep you in prayer.

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