Clinical Trial Day 84: The Last Infusion!

Today I am D-O-N-E with chemo!!!

I can’t believe I’ve made it -24 weeks, 12 infusions – “DONE.” Such a lovely word.

I’m expecting the exchange surgery (June 21st) and radiation to be a walk in the park 🙂

This moment is a dual-edged sword. We’re thrilled that the last six months of chemo treatments are over, and that there is a light at the end of this very difficult and dark tunnel. On the other hand, the impacts of the chemo are cumulative, with a cascade of just-barely tolerable irritations. Recently, the persistent nosebleeds, presumably associated with Avastin were supplanted by a non-stop flow of bone, muscle and joint pain, presumably associated with the Taxol® (paclitaxel).

So this is the time when the intensity of the impacts is at its highest. We should see a gradual but relatively quick amelioration of the symptoms as the toxins leach out of my system. I should begin to feel more normal again. My hair should grow back (albeit considerably grayer). My sense of taste should return. The numbness in my fingers and toes should subside. My digestive track should become more regular. And on and on.

On June 15th, we’ll see the benefits in the degree to which my tumors have been knocked back.  And, as you know, I will have the first of two surgeries on the 21st.

If all goes as hoped – and of course it is entirely possible that it won’t – then I will join the best club in the world of which no one ever wants to be a member – The Breast Cancer Survivor Club.

It is worth noting that, even in the face of this struggle, my spirits have been (mostly) high, bolstered by constant, endlessly inventive attention from my many friends and family members, near and far, who have shown their support in a thousand different ways.  And I’m sure you would all agree that my good nature and wit are still here, unsullied.

As positive as we feel at the moment, this is clearly not a final post. We’re still early in a process that will have many twists and turns down the road. As you know, I’ll keep you posted as things unfold.

Thanks for hanging in there with me.