First Infusion

In preparation for this first infusion, I focused on calm and relaxation, positive self-talk, and so forth to ease anticipated side effects: breathing problems, mouth sores, nausea, vomiting, etc. I brought a tote bag with a change of clothing, a squishy ball, an iPad loaded with books on audible, a large mug of ice chips to prevent mouth sores, and a lap quilt. 

The Datroway infusion protocol was new to my oncology nurse, and per the protocol she was careful to discuss each medication in the process prior to administering it. In my current state, I may not have heard the word "Benadryl". The fact that Van was there, saved me from inattention to this detail, which could have been .... well, very bad. In 2007, I had a significant adverse reaction to Benadryl during chemotherapy and since then avoided all antihistamines out of precaution.  Realizing she had forgotten my Benadryl allergy disconcerted the oncology nurse, and she was unable to determine if another antihistamine could be substituted, or even if we could proceed with the infusion.  After careful research and many consultations between nurse, Dr, and pharmacy an appropriate substitute was concocted, and we were able to proceed.

The infusion went smoothly from there, with minimal discomfort.

I am so glad we took care of the yard in June, renewing our flower beds, adding the mulch, bark, and plantings.  We even created new box beds for the blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, and raspberries.  Now the weeding really needs to be done, and I have so little energy to do it.

Common side effects include blurry vision, dry eyes, much fatigue, and lack of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.  When food is presented, I eat, but I have little, if any, motivation to prepare food. Van would say I have had little motivation to prepare food throughout our marriage, and it is true, but aside from our July 4th campout, there is hardly a hope that I will initiate cooking anytime soon.  

I have been contemplating how to get things done this summer.  It is clear that my energy is very low post infusion.  I have taken numerous naps, with short spurts of chores between naps.  I have listened to audiobooks and scripture because it is easier on my eyes, and I have driven my car only for short distances and only as necessary.

Making soaps and lotions, working on art or quilts, or even writing are less attractive right now.

My hope is as time moves on, I will find a bit more energy, and increased ability to interact more with others.  However, for now, I rest and contemplate how I can serve God in my present state.  It seems this is a season of rest.