Hair today....

I was told that I wouldn't lose my hair with this form of chemotherapy, but that it might thin. However, my hair started to fall out rather dramatically on Monday - not very nice especially when I wasn't expecting to lose it! I've had my hair cut shorter and hope it will stop soon.

I had arranged to babysit for Penny and Lucas on Sunday and Monday but my mouth has been sore so I came home early on Monday. I phoned Ian for advice - I think it's a reaction to the Vinchristine and he suggested some paracetamol, antihistamine and a mouthwash. He even dropped the prescription off for me on his way home from work! How about that for a supportive caring NHS! My mouth is feeling a bit better, but still sore when I eat.

Treatment 2/8

Is it just me, or does 1/4 of the way there sound better than 25%? I had hoped the second round of treatment would be quicker and with fewer reactions, and I was lucky! We were out by 2.30 and soon home. I took some pictures of  my 20 steroids I take with breakfast, the very nice new cancer centre and the comfy chairs!

The three weeks since the first treatment seemed to have gone very quickly. The last week at work felt like normal life again - I've been eating, sleeping well and just  a little tired. It almost felt like there was nothing the matter! I hope this round of treatment has fewer side effects and normal life continues!

Back to work

Fortunately, the antihistamine and paracetamol worked and by Tuesday evening the allergy had almost gone and I was feeling back to normal!

I cycled to work on Wednesday morning, thinking that it was all downhill, but it wore me out! I looked like I'd run a marathon when I got to work and I needed a hour to recover! Keith came to pick me up at lunchtime and I came home for a rest. I rested on Thursday, gradually realizing that even when I don't feel very ill, I am actually still fighting a battle internally.

Work on Friday was much better (no cycling - Keith gave me a lift in) and a chance to catch up on emails, meetings and get things organised. I'm still determined to carry on working throughout the treatment, and I had a chance to chat to Sue about possible ways to minimize disruption if I need to take time off. They are all very supportive at work, I'm very lucky to work in this kind of environment.

I had a very good weekend, lots of visitors bringing food and flowers, and a lovely walk in the woods on Sunday. I think my plan to enjoy the days when I am well is going to be a good one!

Even more good news is that my swollen glands in my groin have all gone which means I can walk and sit comfortably and I've lost a few pounds of the weight I put on in Barcelona!