May 16| 3 appointments today. I was fitted for a gauntlet and sleeve which will be necessary to wear on my arm before chemo starts. This is another prevention measure to reduce the risk of lymphodemia. From there, I had physical therapy. Today was not as bad as last week. The pain I experienced was from axillary cording. Cording is the scarring of the lymphatic system after lymph nodes have been removed. The cords run from my underarm down to my wrist. The cords have also extended from my underarm to my chest wall and back. In order to regain range of motion, the cords need to be stretched and snapped. It is extremely painful and the burning sensation is quite intense. I am stretching daily because these cords tighten back up, easily. From there, I had my teeth cleaned at the dentist. I will not be able to have this done during chemo due to the high risk of developing an infection.
May 17| I have my meeting with the Genetics Counselor. I have many questions which will hopefully reveal a lot of answers, in time. I picked up all my new prescriptions which were ordered by my Oncologist- these are needed after my first treatment. After reading one of the drug profiles, I will need to call and question one of the drugs. This particular drug is in the steroid family. Those who have tested positive for Valley Fever cannot take steroids because the disease disseminates. Since my Valley Fever spores are dormant, we already know they can be triggered when my immune system is low, I want to ensure this medicine will not activate them. This would be a nightmare!
May 18: I will need to pick up the compression sleeve which was not in stock and take it to my physical therapy appointment. The therapist will have the final say on the fit. If all goes well after therapy I am done, otherwise, I will return to be refitted.
May 19: Bloodwork necessary before first treatment.
May 20: 1st Chemo Treatment, 3 hours.
May 21: Return to the hospital for neulasta shot to boost my white blood counts.
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