Before I provide an update (and try to be brief!), I want to let you know that I will provide an update later today regarding the visitor rules--very good news! I also wanted to share this news video that explains why it took me 15 hours to get home last week:
Now, for the chemo update…
Since my admission yesterday around 10 a.m., I have met some wonderful medical professionals. My day nurse, Michelle; my med tech yesterday, Keiara, and today’s, Cora; Dr. Asche; PA Natalie; my night nurse, Katie; the chaplain and her team; and others whose names I didn’t catch. I just met my physical therapist, Caleb, who took me on a speed walk/talk—yes, I did most of the talking—as well as some quick balance exercises, and will return again, same time next week, to go for another spin around the BMT hallways. They are all wonderful and patient.
The high-dose chemotherapy, Melphalan (1), was administered yesterday evening around 6 o’clock. It was preceded by a regimen of liquid magnesium, dexamethasone, chlorhexidine gluconate (oral rinse), ice chips (also to help prevent mouth sores), and copious amounts of sodium chloride to make sure I am properly hydrated. So far, I have had few adverse reactions. I give all praise and thankfulness to God for that. I have felt some mild queasiness, and I feel shaky. I also have episodes when I feel flushed, similar to the hot flashes that used to plague me but not as uncomfortable. Like I told my sister via text this morning, I almost feel like I’m at a spa! Okay, that might be a stretch. There is definitely a preoccupation among the professionals with my bowel movements and physical exercise. They would make good drill sergeants. I know it’s all for the best, and their preoccupations have become mine as well.
Something I didn’t have a clear understanding about was the timeline for likely side effects and how they coincided with the stem cell transplant. In case you might be confused as well, I have learned from the knowledgeable and experienced sources surrounding me that the worst reactions are generally seen following the reintroduction of stem cells. Isn’t that strange!? I thought. One would think that my body would be screaming in protest at the chemo, so often described even by myself as poison, and welcoming of the stem cells, which are my very own. Apparently, that is not the case. I am reminded once again of the omniscience of God, how He understands the things that are foolishness to mankind. As I am striving to do more and more, I will place this matter in His hands. I know He guides the physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals who are caring for me and the other patients; and I believe He works within my body as well through His Holy Spirit, especially because so many of you are asking Him to!
Since it was my aim to keep it brief, I’ll leave this here for now and write more later. The inspirational picture is compliments of a beloved friend, Nancy Conwell. Thank you, Nancy! If anyone has any questions for me, including any about the Wix website or member's app, please don’t hesitate to leave it in the comments or send me an email. I would so love to hear from you!
References:
Note for my medical family/friends (because they often ask) and anyone else interested:
This morning’s meds included:
Claritin
Folic acid (to help prevent anemia)
Acyclovir (antiviral)
Allopurinol (to help prevent calcium build-up)
Dexamethasone (steroid)
Zofran (antinausea med)
Stool softener (needs no explanation)
Gabapentin (to help alleviate symptoms of neuropathy)
I am also getting meds as needed for acid reflux and to prevent blood clots. I think that was the nasty shot RN Katie gave me last night in my belly. The shot was painless, but I have felt a few sharp twinges of pain from the needle stick.
So glad you’re getting wonderful care! 👍🏼🙏🏼