The first chemo treatment

The first chemo treatment is done! Joe and Vicki arrived at the Oncology Department of the Tatman Treatment Center in Coffeyville (KS) around 10:00am on Thursday, April 16th. The chemo treatments are administered in one big room with lots of comfy recliners. There were already five or six patients there getting their chemo. Joe was seated in a recliner, his blood pressure was taken, he signed some papers and an I.V. was placed. (Small world alert: their nurse lives close to Joe and Vicki and recognized them from their walks!) Joe got started on some intravenous fluids to keep him hydrated, then nausea medication and finally the chemo "cocktail." He chatted with Vicki a bit, but mostly rested. The nurse brought him soup and crackers for lunch. They were done and out of the hospital by 1:30.

When they first got to Oncology in the Tatman Cancer Center, Vicki’s cousin Deb (who works in that area) stopped to see them. It was nice to see a familiar face, get a hug and a cup of coffee. The gentleman in the recliner next to Joe was very friendly and spoke to them right away. Mr. Ford was experienced in getting treatments and was relaxed. He had a good sense of humor, especially considering the circumstances. Mr. Ford's lymphoma is in remission and he was getting a "chemo boost." He enjoys flying kites...the fancy ones that use dual strings and can "cut didos" (tricks). How cool! When Joe and Vicki were ready to leave, they exchanged best wishes with Mr. Ford.

Joe had a bad headache after they got home, which is a common side effect of the chemo. He fell asleep in his trusty recliner and was feeling better after some rest. By the next day (Friday, April 17th), Joe was feeling much better! He was still pretty tired and a little nauseous, but that's to be expected. While he may not feel ready to run a marathon, he hasn't had the bad back, belly or headaches and he slept through the night without any pain pills, so that's fantastic!

Overall, it was quite a new experience, but we see it as the beginning of a successful journey!