Chemo 2.2: Making a List, Checking It Twice...

Monday morning, my husband joined me in my morning routine. We got O off on the bus, dropped off Cookie at school, and made the morning Starbucks run. I sadly chose a bottle of water over a latte. It has been over 3 weeks since I have had a latte. It amazes me! (And, strangely enough, saddens me!)

Then, we headed over to Cancer World for Chemo #2. Aside from his surprise visit during my last chemo last December, this was his maiden voyage as my official chemo buddy. I was very happy to have him by my side. I'm so used to the CW infusion ward by now, but for someone who hasn't spent that much time there, it's a little depressing and intimidating. It was filled with very sick people, many who were sleeping (and snoring, at times!).

We got settled in our spot, and one of the nurses came over to us. "Who is going to do the dance today?" she asked, referring to the traditional shuffle-tap-step that Satchel does before every treatment. My husband blushed, remained seated, and shuffled his feet quietly. It gave me just the smile I needed to start the infusion.

We brought out the notebook and made lists of things we needed to do to get ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Then, he fired up the Mac while I brought out my bag of envelopes, labels and stamps. We were completely ignoring the fact that pre-chemo and "The Red Devil" was entering my body. We made lists, and he ordered Christmas gifts online while I put over 100 stamps and labels on Christmas card envelopes.

Within two hours, the nurse said, "You are all done and are free to go." Really? Wow, that was productive! We went out for a nice lunch, and it was very special to share the day with him. We got home just in time to get O off the bus. My girlfriend invited O over for a play date, and he had a ball!

I think the acupuncture I had last week helped with my side effects this time. I'm very nauseated and exhausted, and I am having a hard time sleeping. But, I've been trying my best to rest up so we can enjoy a nice Thanksgiving with Satchel and her family. Once again, our families and friends have been amazing with help, support and love.

Thanks to everyone for, well, everything. The emails, text messages, phone calls, cards, thoughts and prayers continue to uplift us all. I could not get through this without you all. And thanks, Sweeties, for being my chemo buddy.

Two down, two to go. Six weeks to cancer free...forever. And, in the midst of the countdown includes Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. Yea, we can do this.

xoxo