It's not bad enough that I have cancer. A rare, aggressive form of cancer.
I also have to have all of the side effects that cancer brings. Sort of like a gift that keeps giving. Like what, you ask?
Acid reflux. A hot burning, feeling right by the breastbone. Have to eat small meals. If I eat too much, I burp (a lot) and the fire intensifies. Had to start taking Prilosec to control it.
Cough. A "can't stop coughing no matter what" kind of cough. I (and Bob) am awake for six nights kind of cough. Try three or four different kinds of medicine cough. The best medicine was Robitussin DM PM. I was asleep about 30 minutes after I took that.
Loss of sleep. See above.
Boils. I don't know If I can attribute the boil to cancer, because it started before I started chemo. But they are caused by a compromised immune system, so I think it counts. I had this red, inflamed, lump on my chest for about two weeks before I figured out what it was. Yup, a quick Google search, and the first picture looked exactly like what I had. Still not gone, but getting better.
And finally, hair loss. Which started on Christmas, can you believe it? All my long, beautiful, not-my-own colored hair is leaving my head by the handfuls. All of my clothes, pillows, sheets, and the floor are covered with gobs of hair. I guess I should have taken care of it sooner to avoid all of that. I had my head shaved on New Year's Eve. I actually have a fairly decent head, no bumps or indentations. It is somewhat startling to see me in the mirror after I shower. I actually look a lot like my cousin, Bruce.
Not sure what else the cancer and the treatment will bring. Hopefully no more gifts.
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