Every day I’m amazed by the support and outreach I receive. I’m doing exactly what you all would be doing if the roles were reversed, fight. Some days are better than others and this last round of chemo decided to linger, fucker. My oncologist did tell me while my symptoms likely wouldn’t change, they may linger and my fatigue will increase. Apparently he knows what he’s talking about. Took me a bit longer to bounce back this time after last Wednesday. It’s the on and off nausea that is the most annoying. The amount of water you want to drink during chemo is just silly. ‘Flush out the toxins,’ they say. ‘Give me a beer,’ I say. Water nowadays literally makes me want to gag. I can take a drink, but to chug, is out of the question. It makes my stomach immediately feel so full that I feel overloaded, like the nursery rhyme, “tip me over and pour me out.” Gatorade seems OK to get down, as does Dunkin’ Donuts Refreshers with coconut milk. Yes, I realize water is better because there is no sugar, but I’ll do me. I’ve also developed ‘chemo cough’. Yeah me!!! So when you see me, and I’m coughing, it’s NOT covid!
Met with my Oncologist yesterday, weight is holding strong. Not something we’re usually happy about, but for this it’s a win. My labs, while not on point, are nothing to be concerned about. Another win. I also requested approval for a medical marijuana card to help with my nausea. I’ll take, “Things I never thought I’d say for $1,000”. Please don’t ask me to get anything for your social purposes, I’ll cut you. Oncologist also told me he’s going to give me a 3 week break after my last ‘Red Devil’ chemo this upcoming Wednesday. Gives my body a chance to reset before I start a 12-week weekly chemo of taxol. I can’t decide if that will be a nice break, or a tease to my body and mind. Time will tell.
Brought “Cindy” out to celebrate Father’s Day at my favorite, Coopershawk. Rocked a bald head at a Wolves game. Well, I had a hat on because my head was chilly. My oldest son, Evan, says the hat makes me look British, so we’ve called this hat, “Bridget.” I also brought “Penny” out for an impromptu lunch date with the hubby at a local favorite, Rosie O’Hare’s. Our normal waitress did a double take because I was there two weeks ago bald. Ha! Apparently blondes DO have more fun.
During this journey I have not hidden myself because of my physical changes, as you can see. These changes are now defining me as a woman, a friend, a daughter, and a mother. I’ve embraced the physical changes I chose NOT to have, but do. The scars will be here for life, and that means I have a story to tell for life. Thank you all for seeing my physical changes and scars and treating me no different. I, on the other hand, do see a little different. I’m looking at everyone’s boobs as they walk by! Seriously. Good boobs, bad boobs. Small boobs, big boobs (should be a Dr. Seuss book). I can’t help it. I look, envy the good boobs (I’m human and realistic) and hope they get mammograms to keep those good boobs. Come on now, I also hope the saggy boobs get mammograms, I’m not a jerk. It’s a natural instinct to look at things that have been unexpectedly taken away too soon. If you quit smoking, do you not stare at people that are smoking? Boom! It’s OK, just don’t get caught looking. That would be odd.
Now everyone, look at your boobs. Have you gotten your mammogram this year? If not, GO!!!! Have a great weekend. Red Devil #4 on Wednesday.
You have not lost your wit! You make me laugh every blog! Love you lots!
Katie, so happy for the update, glad to hear things are as good as they can be all things considered. My wife is a big fan of the flavored water squirts like MIO and their generic twins. She turned my bother who was battling pancreatic cancer and the chemo effects since he could not stand water. It worked for him, you should try it out. Good to hear about the medical MJ card too. My brother was very hesitant about it but tried one of the pens and it worked well for him. His change of mind got him through the worst of his chemo after effects. Edibles work well too. Check out this link:https://instagram.com/pvtreats?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
She is my DIL and is an amazing cook.
Good to hear you are going about your daily life and getting out, it’s important to attempt normalcy, even though as you know, there is nothing normal about cancer. Take care and continue to kick cancers ass. 🙏💗
Cindy and Penny are looking good!! Keep going strong!!
You are doing fantastic! I just walk around with my bald head. The wigs are too hot for me. Add in the hot flashes from my friendly little white pill that I now have to take everyday. My port came out this week and next week I go for my “diagnostic” mammogram. I don’t know how they are different, but I guess I’ll find out. When it comes to your medical card, things are cheaper in Michigan! Gummies are awesome! Keep up the good fight and thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much for your comment, Jill. I really only bring out “Cindy” or “Penny” on special occasions, otherwise I rock the bald. It’s definitely more comfortable, I agree. So happy to hear your port came out. I’m envious of that. My constantly pinches me. Hope your diagnostic is all good. I thank you so much for sharing with me. What gummies do you like? I’ll be in Michigan over the 4th… will my card work there too?
You’re awesome and I love all the looks! Hang in there Katie!
Glad you are still keeping a good outlook. Don’t forget about edibles. If you’ve developed “chemo cough” the smoke may do more harm than good. I enjoy your blog, your open attitude and your teaching. I send you strength. When this is all said and done, perhaps you will write a book or two, sharing your journey and humour.
Katie, you are just so amazing! You are never far from my thoughts & always in my prayers. You continue to stand true & tall through these rough times, making you a hero & inspiration.
Sending you tons of love ::::: gentle hugs :::::::::
Katie, You are a Beautiful Amazing Daughter, aka BAD ass, that is standing strong for yourself and your family ❤️. Your warrior attitude and wit shows what strength you really have. I know you are Rockin it, but always know I am here for you whenever you need that extra hug just like when you were a little girl. ❤️ Love Mom
Best. Mommy. Ever.
Honey, you look beautiful, and clearly your wit has not suffered!!! ♥️♥️♥️
Love reading your blog. This may sound weird, but every morning after my shower, and getting dressed I think of you and what you’re going through. You look wonderful, not just wonderful but beautiful. You rock!!
Love it!
hang in there and you are looking good we pray for you