Rest and Stemmie Days

I’m back! Whew! First off, the care here is over the top, really, white glove service (ha!)! When we arrived we were given a Blue Bag chock full (shoutout to my Aussies!) of meds and a binder with a very detailed schedule tailored just for me. We were also given a White Box full of meds that are only to be taken if the doctor deems necessary to control any side affects. AND we were issued a phone with direct numbers to the entire team and instructed to call the DOC at any hour 24/7… and he answers before the first ring stops! We know, we have had to call every day so far. I’m sure I am his favorite by now!

The truth is I went ninja and overachieved on the water consumption during chemo Day 1. That caused big problems and a trip to the hospital. Back home, some problems lingered. The great news is that every symptom that came up, there was an answer in the White Box. That means I’m not breaking into new territory around here! So, today my body is acting ‘normal’ for me. Praise!

Now I have entered into the Stem Cell Harvesting period. It lasts 7 to 9 days depending on how quickly my counts rise. A nurse comes by my apartment and gives me a shot that pulls the stem cells into your blood from your bone marrow. Science is crazy! I have 2 shots, they’re not too bad. I can expect bone pain to increase as it really begins to do it’s job. I think the number goal is around 100 million cells, but I’m going to try and go ninja on this one! We will update when we reach our goal unless there is something new to report.

I wanted to add a few things I am thankful for! Little gifts from some friends to remind me of you, each message and ‘like’ that brings me memories of you, each song and scripture. I am also glad I packed my cozy throw blanket (missing Hank pup), my noise canceling ear phones, my soft eye mask and my PILLOW. Yep, high maintenance here! And as always the reasons to chuckle, like my toilet is so high my feet dangle and to get off I use the handles like dismounting a pommel horse! Aiming for a 10!

Ending with a text from a friend: ‘Come on stem cells. MULTIPLY AND BE BIONIC!!’ Amen!