Started the new round of chemo on Thursday afternoon. Some of the side effects I may encounter: Hair loss (almost a certainty - may start within a couple weeks); Low blood counts; Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands or feet; Fatigue and weakness; Mouth sores; Joint and muscle pain; Stomach upset and/or diarrhea. So far no major side effects. Yesterday I felt great, although I got really tired by the end of the day. Today I don't feel terrible, but not good. I guess just sort of lethargic.
Vicki is supposed to give me a haircut sometime today as preparation to losing my hair. I had grown my hair longer to make it lay down better. I think previous chemo had caused it to want to just stick straight out. I haven't really enjoyed the longer hair, though, so getting it cut doesn't bother me. Even losing the hair on my head doesn't bother me as much as losing eyebrows and eyelashes. That just seems really weird. Not having to shave will be nice, but not being able to grow a mustache will be difficult. There has been very little time during my adult life I have not had a mustache.
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
Your hair looks very Ben-like in that photo, Joe. Be well - Nick Miller
ReplyDeleteVicki is absolutely right: you are a rock. We're keeping both of you in our thoughts.
ReplyDelete-Emily and John