Seven more weeks update

I totally forgot to blog an update last week.  There's really not to much new to report.  I had my first appointment with my new Oncologist, Dr. Cohen on April 2nd.   His style is totally different than Dr. Tang.  I can't say I liked him very much.  He seems like he is in a big hurry to get rid of me.  I also didn't like that he made a joke about my hearing loss, I don't find that funny.  I struggle with missing what is said to me.   I also got the feeling he doesn't like questions being asked, because he changes the subject and goes onto something else.  All that being said, I will see what my next appointment is like and give him the benefit of the doubt.  

On a happier note, my hair has started to grow back.  Happy about my head but not so much about my facial hair and legs, LOL.  My weight has been staying steady, but I will be vigilant about watching it doesn't start going back up.  It's been great being able to eat things that taste normal.  My love of pasta, french fries and ice cream to name a few.  I don't know if I mentioned a few things that got me through the worst days.  I ate lots of chicken with rice soup, Boost protein shakes and Liquid IV water supplements.  

I'm still struggling with the peripheral neuropathy in my hands and feet.  I would say that's my biggest complaint right now.  It's hard to walk normally when you can't feel your feet.  I 'm constantly dropping things too, because my fingers are numb.  Hopefully this will go away eventually.

I'm looking forward to some warmer weather.  My happy place is outside on my deck, enjoying the warm sun on my face.  Soon the community pool will be opening as well.  I guess I'd better think about buying a few smaller swimsuits.  That will make me happy! 🩱💕😁

Six week Update

1t's hard to believe it's been six weeks since I finished chemo treatments. Yesterday I went back to the infusion center for my first maintenance IV of Keytruda. This isn't something new, I've been getting Keytruda for the past three months along with the chemo drugs. Since it's only one 30 minute IV, I'm not hanging out there all day like before. I only have to go again in six weeks.

 

I received a letter notifying me that my Oncologist, Dr. Tang is leaving RWJ/Barnabas Health. He's moving to Atlanta, Ga. Although I will miss him, I wish him well. I could not have been in better hands.

 

To update the progress I'm making, several things have improved. I had a CT scan to compare with the one I had before I received treatment. The new scan didn't show any abnormalities. In other words, the chemo did its job and kicked a$$. I'm still experiencing numbness in my fingers and feet. My sense of taste is slowly starting to get better. Dr. Tang said my hair should start to grow back as well. I have to work on getting my muscle tone in my legs back. I'm looking forward to warmer weather so I can get outside again.

           I will do another update in six more weeks, until then                            stay healthy and safe 💘🙏🙏💘

Yesterday was the big day!

 In case you are wondering what this picture is, it's me ringing the bell at the Infusion Center.  The ringing of the bell ceremony signifies the last day of chemo treatment.

Yes, that's right yesterday was my last day of Chemotherapy. 

So what's next?  Maintenance every 6 weeks with "Keytruda" an immune system building drug.

I can't say enough about the staff at RWJ/Barnabus.  Every staff member I interacted with was top notch.  Yesterday was so special for me.  The staff in the infusion center conspired with my daughter, Tracy to pull off a surprise for me.  You'll see what I mean if you watch the video.  I hope you can open the link>>>>>>>

https://www.messenger.com/t/100034306898349

I didn't know my family was standing behind me until I turned around.  I never suspected they were there.

I probably won't be writing another blog for at least 6 weeks, unless I have something new to tell you.  💓💖Thank you for following my journey.