Had my 3rd chemo on Monday

I had my 3rd chemotherapy on Monday and also met with Dr. Voelzke for a check-up.

After having my chemo the past two times, the next day, they had been giving me a shot called "Neulesta" which was supposed to increase my white blood cell counts and keep me from getting such a weakened immune system. Dr. V said that some new research has shown that using this shot with one of the drugs in my chemo blend (Bleomycin) can cause lung tissue damage so he'd rather we chug on without me getting that shot each time from now on.

Chemo went as expected on Monday, and by that night I was exhausted of course. I think this one was the hardest yet. I didn't get too physically ill, I never got the "I'm going to throw up" feeling, but I did get lightheaded, dizzy, and generally just had very little energy this week. Today is Friday and I'm feeling pretty good again. It really stinks having no energy, especially when you used to be a spry 20-something year-old with lots of energy.

So now I have 3 chemos down and 1 to go (if all goes well.) After this next chemo which will be on February 9th, I'll go for a PET scan 2 weeks later. That will tell us a lot -- if the cancer is gone, if it's not, if it's almost gone, etc. Depending how that PET looks, that will determine if I go for a 3rd month of chemo or if I move onto the radiation. I'm hoping and praying that I won't need a 3rd round of chemo. It gets worse each time... mentally, too. I hate even thinking of going for it... it makes me feel gross and sick and ill just thinking about it.

That's the latest with me and where I stand. I appreciate the kind words, thoughts, and especially prayers from everyone. Thank you so much!