This chemo thing is like a sine wave…

Do you remember what a sine wave is? A simplified definition is found here. Anyways, a sine wave has a pattern that repeats; the low troughs are when I start chemo; these are the times when the side effects, especially the nausea and fatigue, are most prominent. The peaks are my recovery weeks, where I try to spend my time getting out and about.

I had a fantastic recovery week from my fourth cycle. Got in at least 3 mt bike rides, took a road trip to UCLA to see my former teammates, and caught the latest James Bond movie, Skyfall.

I started Cycle5 on Thursday, and I’m digging my way out of the trough. I’ve learned that the drugs stay in your body for a while, so the side effects are more prominent in the later cycles. For example, I’ve had problems with cold food when I first start a chemo cycle; this usually goes away by the third week. On the night before I start a new chemo cycle, I usually go to Baskin Robbins to get mint chocolate chip ice cream. But, this time, I had no desire for the ice cream. I’m scared of cold foods. The doctor said that this will continue until the cycles are done, and then it may take some additional time for the recovery. Bummer.

For now, I’ll keep managing these side effects and fight my way out of the trough. I should be moving into the peaks around the Thanksgiving timeframe. Hopefully I’ll get more of my taste senses back, too! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

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Archive Comments

Ahne: My wavelength is much too long...it's been much too long since we've chatted. Sending you positive thoughts for the peaks, and a suggestion to try mint chocolate cookies w/o the ice cream :)

BW: I just figured out that we were on campus at UCLA at the same time. While you were meeting with your old teammates, I was too with mine (for Coach Scates retirement celebration after 50 years). On that note, I am sending you to an inspirational vollyball video. https://youtu.be/xFQnj3BR0A4 - "like the Phoenix" you will. --BW

Hardika Shah: Just thinking of you.

AQ: Thanks for the update and the trig review! :) U cont to amaze me! Glad u are making the most of ur peaks and "climbing out" the troughs! Hope u r able to truly enjoy your thanksgiving festivities...lots to be thankful for! Will cont to keep u in our thoughts n prayers!