I'm changed the name of my blog. I like it better. The anger I was feeling way back when I was determining what I'd name this blog has faded, so it feels better to focus on what this treatment is doing for me; that is enabling me to live.
I need this reminder on Thursdays. They continue to be a more difficult day in terms of side effects, but after nearly three full rounds, both things are happening; my cancer is dying and I'm living.
This round is also easier because I'm more comfortable speaking authoritatively about the side effects, and from prior rounds I feel confident that they will go away. Dr. Motzer really seemed to be right when he said the first round is really the most difficult, with all its unknowns.
The big change with this round that I've been quite aware of is my head hair loss, which is now nearly completely gone. So much so that only with the recent shorts and tee-shirt weather have I noticed that I've lost a lot of hair on my upper arms and upper legs too. It seems to be gone where my clothing has the most contact and motion against my skin.This picture also shows the redness and swelling that comes with the steroids, mostly. I have gotten more sun with the aforementioned weather, but not enough to cause this redness.
But, these things will pass too.
If I learned one thing from shaving my head in the past for swimming, it's that you should always remember to slap some sunscreen on that newly bald head.
ReplyDeleteSunburn on the top of your head is very annoying to have, and it tends to happen pretty quickly because that skin isn't used to the sun. Sunburn on the back of your head makes sleeping uncomfortable (like a neck burn, but worse).
I like the new name, Ted. Thanks for your comment on my blog -- I wish we could share and connect over something less horrible...but here we are. Happy Thursday, one more day to go before you get a break!
ReplyDeleteTed you are amazzzzzzzzing. Absolutely amazzzzzing. Hang in there, with love from your sister, who is in awe of your strength!
ReplyDeleteLove, Rach
Your head shot is revealing, but not you. Live Ted Live. Love, Mom
ReplyDeleteHi Ted,
ReplyDeleteWe continue to think of you and pray for you in all that you're doing. I like the new name....and also the new look. While I know you did not have a choice in the matter, you look so young and strong, and very much like you can tackle anything. Keep strong! Love, your cousin Amy