A Good Week

This was a pretty good week -it was my off week from the chemo.

Last weekend was a bit tough with fatigue, especially Saturday when just getting up off the couch to make a cup of tea was a huge effort. Sunday I improved a bit as the day wore on and by Monday I had really started to come back and have been in fine fettle for the rest of the week and this coming weekend.  I've been out and about, and though a little weary from time to time, nothing too limiting. 

I actually did some fun things this week with dinner on the beach yesterday, a networking event, been to the beach twice already (under my big umbrella of course) and going again Sunday and a concert Saturday. I actually had an alcoholic drink last evening and enjoyed it -a pina-colada.  Most alcohol tastes very bitter to me and I haven't had any during the past 6 weeks. This one was sweet and tasted quite good.  Making the most of this while I can. 

My appetite is quite voracious and I am eating a fair amount of food.  Don't know what's happening with the weight, I'll check it next week, though some of my clothes are getting a little loose fitting.  I'm guessing I might still be dropping a pound or two.

So Wednesday next I'm back to the poison centre for the start of cycle 3.  When I look at the calendar, I really have only 5 more weeks and then I'm done with the chemo.  What a day the 28th July will be.

People have asked me that if the chemo works will that be the end of it.  The answer is No.  The treatment for my type of bladder cancer is removal of the bladder and the surrounding organs.  The chemo is purely a preventative measure.  Studies have shown that the 5 year survival rate improves between 7% and 9% (depending upon which study one looks at) when chemo is administered prior to surgery.  Even though my cancer shows to be well contained within the bladder, stray cells are still possible.  So the chemo is given to help shrink the tumour and kill any stray cancer cells that may be floating around the body but may not have attached anywhere.  So unfortunately, it's coming out.

So, other than having a good week this week, nothing else noteworthy to report.

Thank you to all the well wishers and to those who have me in their prayers.

Be well to All,
Chris