Feeling Like a Cancer Patient
This week has marked a turning point in my journey, as I now fully recognize and accept that I am a cancer patient. Several changes have contributed to this realization. One of the biggest factors is my appearance—having a feeding tube protruding from my nose is a visible reminder of what I am going through. Additionally, I wear a large bandage around my neck to protect the radiation burns, which further emphasizes the impact of treatment.
My voice has also become noticeably raspy, and I find myself frequently needing to clear my throat. These symptoms are persistent and quite bothersome, serving as constant reminders of both my diagnosis and the side effects of treatment. All these elements together have made me feel more like a cancer patient than at any previous point in my journey.
The Toughest Week Yet
Week 6 stood out as particularly difficult due to the accumulation of side effects from both chemotherapy and radiation treatments. While this array of symptoms is tough to manage, I am hopeful that things will not get worse from here.
Starting the Feeding Tube
The week began with the initiation of the feeding tube, a major adjustment in my daily routine. I am grateful to Darcy, who has taken on the responsibility of managing my feeds. With his help, I am gradually working my way up to consuming five cans of feed per day.
Managing Phlegm and Throat Discomfort
Another symptom that intensified this week is the persistent phlegm in the back of my throat. It is an unpleasant and uncomfortable experience. To address this, I have started gargling with club soda, which helps break up the mucous. Unfortunately, the relief is often short-lived, as the buildup returns within minutes.
Sleep Challenges
Sleeping has become increasingly difficult, mainly due to the need to frequently clear my throat. To cope, I now sleep in a nearly upright position. Thankfully, our couch in the rumpus room is exceptionally comfortable and allows me to remain mostly upright while still getting some rest.
Radiation Burns and Wound Care
This week, the burns from radiation on my neck have become more problematic, resulting in open wounds that require bandaging. The nurses have been bandaging me for the past couple of days, but moving forward, Darcy will take over this responsibility. Nurse Darcy is doing an excellent job putting dressings on my neck!.
Progress and Looking Ahead
As challenging as this week has been, we are now in the home stretch of treatment. I have completed 28 out of 33 scheduled radiation treatments, which amounts to 88% completion. There is just one more full dose of chemotherapy left, scheduled for Tuesday. My final radiation treatment will take place on Monday, October 20th.
What to Expect After Treatment
Once my treatments are finished, I have been informed that the next two weeks may still present some challenges. However, the experience is unique for each individual, and I remain hopeful as I move forward.
Darcy and I are both looking forward to the completion of the Radiation and Chemotherapy treatments. It has been overwhelming and exhausting. Both of us started reflecting on what comes after treatment….no clear answers yet. No doubt it will involve more change.
My meditation guide reminded me this morning that fighting change is futile, and what would it be like to get comfortable with uncertainty? HMMMM Maybe we will find a new rhythm that will help us ride a new wave of change after this experience with Cancer.