Thursday, September 24, 2009

Week 0.75

We are approaching the end of week 1. Since treatment started Monday, I have received 10 doses.  I talked with the doctor this morning and he thinks we'll do one more dose this afternoon, then another dose early tomorrow morning for a total of 12 doses.  I'm hoping to be out of here sometime Friday afternoon, but wouldn't be surprised to stay here til Saturday.

Overall the drug has had some side effects.  I have retained a lot of water.  Gained in water weight so far around 15 lbs.  Most of which appears to be in my face which is very puffy at the moment.  I've also got some fluid in the lungs that has given me a bit of a cough.  They tell me when I leave that they will give me medication to help drop the water back off.  My appetite has been decent up until last night when I had about three bites of dinner, and breakfast this morning was two small cups of cranberry juice.  So food has lost its appeal 

No big surprise, but the schedule has been modified slightly.  Instead of having one week off between cycles they are now going to give me two.  So I will now spend Weeks 2 and 3 at home and check back in at HCI for week 4.  That will also be the case for the second course, I will still start on Week 8 but will have two weeks off and will check back in for Week 11.  As always this schedule is subject to change at any time.

6 comments:

Nancy said...

Ben & Allison,
Thank you for keeping us posted! We are adding our faith and constant prayers to yours! The comment we hear over and over is "Ben has the best attitude and is in the best shape, if anyone can beat this it is Ben" You are loved and admired! We love you!Nancy & Ralph

Unknown said...

You are one tough man. Just letting you know (as always) that Mike and I are praying for you.

ghd3 said...

so great to hear/get an update! Glad week 1 is going all right. We're all pulling for you! Will hope to hear an update when you get to go home!

Kathryn said...

So glad Week 1 is almost over and you are headed home soon. Can't wait to come visit. Keep up the great attitude...you amaze me! Love you all!

Unknown said...

Ben,

You are in our thougths and prayers.

David and Angie Margetts

Unknown said...

Ben,

You, Allison and your family remain in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do for you or your family, even if it's something simple like tending your kids while Allison drives up to the HCI for a short visit. We would love to help in any way we can.

The Miller's