More Machine Than Man

Monoclonal antibodies, therapeutic antibodies, human granulocyte colony-stimulating factors. I've always wanted to be bionic, it was a real childhood fantasy. Chemotherapy wasn't quite what I'd had in mind, but I'll go with it for now. It seems to be the right program.

The first treatment is done, but not without a fair amount of anxiety and apprehension preceding it. It lasted ten hours, but I was able to doze through a lot of it. Other than mild anaphylactic shock from the rituxan which was immediately treated with an intravenous course of benadryl, I felt ok. One down, five to go. I feel now that I can do this, now that the mystery has been somewhat unveiled.

I really wasn't expecting such a radical change to my sense of smell, taste buds and stomach. And it seems to be getting more intense each day. I can say I was warned about this but am a bit surprised by the radicalness of it all. Everything has a lingering smell/taste that causes a direct response from my stomach. I've had to go on a super lean food program, I just can't stomach much of anything. Basically, crackers, toast, applesauce. Basically no nutrition. The few weeks before chemo I bulked up on fresh juice and tons of raw veggies and whole grains. Little did I know that I would need this in the weeks to come. Hopefully my body stored up some vitamins and minerals for the coming onslaught. I'm wondering if anyone has any advice on a course of probiotics in conjunction with chemotherapy - let me know if you've heard any success stories or if you think it's a good idea or would work. Also, any natural ways to counter the difficulties digesting food while on chemotherapy. I've started with ginger and mint tea and that has helped tremendously.

Thanks to everyone for your phone calls, emails and postings of support! I'm sorry that it's taking me a while to call/write back. I have been pretty low energy, but I look forward to being in touch soon.

I now know my chemo schedule and would love it if you are available for a ride to or from the hospital (Good Samaritan at Wilshire and Lucas downtown). It will be dropping off in the morning and picking up in the afternoon. One way is fine, I know people are generally working in the afternoon but I think some of you are in the neighborhood or have flexible schedules. Please think about it and let me know. These are the dates: Sep 26th, Oct 10th, Oct 24th and Nov 7th. I'm covered for Sep 10th since my sister will be coming to town to hang with me.

Let me know if you are around on the weekends to hang out, maybe you could bring over a homemade meal or a healthy frozen dinner from whole foods, or just yourself. I would love to just see folks and visit or watch a movie. I will for sure be homebound on the weekends after my chemo treatments and would love some company.