Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Started Chemo

I went for my first Avastin treatment yesterday. It was not that bad, the worst part was sitting in the chair all hooked up and listening to all the possible side effects. "Of course they don't all happen, we just have to make you aware of everything" she says politely, like that is somehow going to make it all better. Now that we have you all hooked up and you can't run away we'll tell you the bad side of the drugs!

The good news is that they gave me Benedryl to avoid an allergic reaction but the best part is it makes me sleepy. Sleep has been a real issue for me lately, too many things on my mind to sleep. So I'm happy to report that 14 hours later, I have no side effects and slept like a baby from about 7:00 last night until 5:45 this morning. Wow, I'd forgotten how good it feels to wake up refreshed. I got out and did a two mile walk just as Gerald went out the door for work. Put on my iPod and listened to some praise and worship music and watched the world wake up...pretty cool. According to the doctor, I am supposed to walk between 3-5 miles a day. Good thing I had some shiny new walk shoes!

I also started the Xeloda (chemo) pills this morning. I really should have started on Sunday but chickened out. So far no side effects so I'm going to work on a couple of projects around the house today. The dogs have chewed up several cushions on the couch and chair so I'm attempting to repair them. Anyone that knows my limited sewing skills, will find that statement very amusing. Overall this is a good day so I give thanks to God for giving it to me.

Which is a good lead in to what is really on my heart this morning, I noticed several comments on facebook the other day...."waiting on Friday" or "Can't wait until Friday". Without sounding "holier than thou" as my grandpa used to say, I just want to remind you all that everyday is a good day and you should be glad for each one instead of always looking forward to the future. By always hoping for another day, you miss the joy of the day that is set before you. Know one knows how many days they are going to get so my prayer for you is that you open your eyes and see what is in front of you today and enjoy it to the fullest. It may be your 5 year old who just learned how to tie her shoes or your teenager that just made a wise choice or even your spouse walking out the door to work to provide a life for your family. Everyday is special so please slow down and enjoy where you are right now. It goes by so quickly.

Because of Christ,

Julie

1 comment:

  1. Hi Julie!

    This is Debi's sister, Lydia. She had shared your blog with me last week, knowing that we have been sharing life with each other through her. I am so blessed by your spirit. I know that it has not always been easy, but I am encouraged by you as I walk through my own things these days. Thank you for the poem titled 'Faith' that your friend Julie Qualls wrote. It is fitting as we travel through the storms of life. Philippians 4:6-13 has been my life verses and I appreciate the NLT translation you posted.

    I am thankful that you are feeling good and able to attend the treatment center of your choice. Know that although you may feel alone at times, there are many out here that are interceding on your behalf, standing before our Lord and Savior, seeking complete healing and restoration for you.

    In Christ,

    Lydia :->

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