"We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face....we must do that which we think we cannot."
~~Eleanor Roosevelt

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Chemo Start Date

I will begin my first chemo session on Monday, April 27. My appt is at 9:30am and I will be there for at least 4 hours assuming all goes well and they are not running late. Through an IV drip, I will receive 3 chemo drugs: Docetaxel (Taxotere brand), Carboplatin (Paraplatin brand) & Trastuzumab (Herceptin brand). In addition, I will be pre-medicated with anti-nausea meds & benedryl for allergic reaction. On Tuesday, I go back to the office to get a quick shot of Neulasta to boost my white blood cell count. On Thursday, I scheduled an appt with my oncologist to address a few questions. It will be a busy week.

Mark will go with me to my appts next week. I'm so thankful his job is flexible and his manager supportive. I'm anxious to get this process started, but also have much anxiety.......the fear of the unknown can be so overwhelming. If all goes well, I will finish my 18 week plan (6 - 3 week cycles) the last week of August. What a great birthday gift that will be!!

I have no idea how I will feel next week. For some people, it takes a few days to feel the side-effects. Everyone is different. I hope for the best. This is now the time that I may need to call on some of you to help me & my family. I just have no idea how well I will be able to function. I'll keep you posted on this new adventure.

Thank you again for your continued prayers and concerns. You are making a difference in my life! Love, srb

4 comments:

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  2. Say the word girl. I can do whatever! I will have you in my thoughts ALL day Monday. You rock and are going to kick butt. I know you are scared but you are strong. Dig deep!

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  3. Shannon, Please just call or email---I'll be there--whatever you need---no need is too great or too small---all you have to do is ask. Love you!

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  4. We have you in our hearts always...you are an amzing woman!!! We love you!

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