This is it. The last Chemotherapy cycle.
6 cycles, 21 days each
- 126 days
- 18 weeks
- 4.5 months
- 30 days inpatient in the hospital
- 24 chemo bags
- 6 Neulasta/Fulphil shots
- 8 Rituxan treatments
- 43 Complete Blood Counts W/Auto Diff
- 43 Complete Metabolic Panels
- 3 PET scans
- 2 Echocardiograms
- 1 Transfusion (for severe anemia)
- 1 Ultrasound (looking for blood clots)
Also prior to the start of the chemotherapy
- 1 Mediastinal Mass Biopsy
- 1 Bone Marrow Biopsy
- 1 PICC Line Placement
Total cost of treatment over $500,000
I lost all my hair, most of my eyebrows and eyelashes, body hair. I have lived with a bitter taste in my mouth most of the time. I have been mildly to severely anemic through out. My appetite has come and gone but has mostly been normal. I have had mild peripheral neuropathy in my fingers. I have had a couple of bouts of mouth sores. I fainted once. I developed 1 blood vessel occlusions (clots) in my upper left arm. I have had low to no energy through out.
I have not suffered nausea or vomiting. I have not lost weight (not so much as an ounce). I have not been exceptionally cold. I have not had to stop using metal utensils due to the taste.
I have stayed as strong physically and mentally as I could. I have kept a positive attitude and tried to not borrow trouble. I have been learning and practicing patience.
And the PICC line was removed before I left the hospital.
And here I am at the end of the chemotherapy. Not that I’ve been counting…
WooHoo!
Next up, another PET Scan to see if all the cancer is gone. A consult with a radiation oncologist (just in case), and monitoring. Lots of monitoring. And recovery. I am really looking forward to recovery.