The Chemo Journal – Round 8 – October 10, 2011

October 16th, 2011

It’s finally here – the last one! And looking back I can’t say it was a cake walk. I can say that the Taxol part of A-C-T was really nothing difficult. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I think the A-C part probably wouldn’t have been so bad without the Neulasta shot. If I had to do it again (which I am making damn sure I won’t by hitting this occurrence with every weapon in the arsenal) I would refuse that shot. My blood count is low, no doubt. But Dr. Splichal has put me on antibiotics as a preventative measure because of that. Perhaps you couldn’t go 8 rounds on antibiotics without causing immunity to them when you really need them but I would actually challenge your oncologist about whether or not you really NEED it if you are otherwise in good health.

Now onto the details…

Day 1 – now (Monday – now)

I’m calling this “platinum blonde”
Flowers from Saundra Griffith

Hmmm what can I say? Eh I’ve had some joint, muscle and bone pain but I’ve had worse working in the yard for a day. My hair is fully growing back by now. I will say I spent a pirate’s fortune on coloring my hair for 10 years but i’m fairly certain my hair wasn’t completely silver, white, platinum or whatever the term you use for, let’s be real – gray hair, but it is coming back 95% so. I’m waiting patiently for all of this to fall out and to see the gorgeous locks of golden walnut hair to return (although i’m not sure that is my real hair color – my hairstylist seems to remember it that way many years ago). Should I be holding my breath?Other than that – nothing more to report. Uneventful is much better than the alternative and I am just fine with that. Radiation…here I come!

I want to give a special shout out to my old girlfriend and intern Saundra Griffith. A few days after I finished my chemo a knock at my door surprised me with a beautiful flower bouquet to celebrate this momentous occasion. Thank you Saundra!

  1. Kathryn Lookofsky says:

    I’ve spent a ton of money coloring my hair too, but there are plenty of women with silver locks who are gorgeous (think Emmylou Harris). I’m just thrilled that you are healthy enough to worry about it! I’m sure that you’ll still be beautiful whatever color/texture you end up with. If not, you sure rock the bald look well! ;)