Hi everyone – thought I’d better check in and let everyone know how I am doing. Things went better than expected following the chemotherapy last Tuesday. I experienced hardly any nausea – the medications they gave me worked great. I was on those meds for four days, then off by Saturday. That’s when the fatigue really set in. That took me off guard – I had been prepared for nausea, but not prepared to feel as weak and tired as I did. The weekend was difficult, but I started feeling much better Sunday night and things are going well now. I have this week off, then have my next infusion next Tuesday, March 10. I am still experiencing bits of light nausea here and there, but nothing bad enough to do anything about.
On an interesting note, I had my first reflexology appointment tonight. Reflexology is the therapeutic method of relieving pain by stimulating pressure points on the feet. My 90 minute appointment was amazing. So very relaxing. I do feel that it helped quell some nausea I had been experiencing, but moreover, I left feeling incredibly light and relaxed. I am definitely going back next week for another appointment.
This week I also had a physical therapy and counseling appointment, both part of the ACTIVE program at Swedish. The program is for people who are anxious to get back into an exercise routine. I did some arm exercises to help loosen up my shoulder and also saw a counselor to talk about cancer-related fears and concerns. Both were great appointments, and I go back for another session tomorrow (Thursday). I’m also back to see my acupuncturist Friday.
I have also been doing a little work (in between appointments!) and that’s felt great. It is nice to get back into the work groove a bit – I do love routine. I also appreciate the diversion and the adrenaline rush from trying to get everything done by deadline.
Thank you to everyone for the cards, emails, meals and favors that keep on coming. It’s so nice to know I’m in your thoughts!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
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7 comments:
I just wish I could do more than cheerlead from St. Louis, but yes, my thoughts are with you often!
I knew nothing about reflexology until just now...sounds fascinating, and like a well-deserved bit of respite! Did you say you have a special thing to walk on in between appts? Want to hear more...
Thanks for the update, Sheila. It is good the nausea is not overwhelming. I'm like Claire: I wish I could do more than cheer from Chicago.
Be well,
Craig
I heard about reflexology, this is a good thing you tried it and loved it !
I'm so glad to hear your chemo is difficult as you thought.
Keep up the good work Sheila !
You sound good Sheila -- I hope you continue to respond as well to the next rounds of chemo. You're going to get me intrigued to try all these things: acupuncture, reflexology! talk to you soon,
el
Hi Sheila,
So good to hear YOU throughout this message and thrilled that things are going well. Looking forward to seeing you later this week.
L
Hi Sheila, Sorry I have not been in touch better. Just wanted to say that I too think Reflexology is better than a full body massage. For me, it feels like parts of my body are being affected with being touched. (Not those parts). Julia is trained in Reflexology and is one of the best. If and when you guys come to England you can have all you can take. We miss you guys. Love Andrew and Julia.
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