Sara has finished 3 out of the 5 planned chemo sessions, and although this achievement is great progress, it means that the going is going to get a bit tougher for a little while longer. This is due to several factors: the first 2 chemo sessions were at 50% strength compared to the last chemo treatment before her liver surgery in late January, plus the (unfortunate) cumulative effect of the chemo cocktail which she is receiving. Plus the fact that her system is still recovering from major surgery!

In a way, however, dealing with the chemo side effects has been easier this time around since the unknown aspect of the treatment has largely been removed. Sara knows the cycle now; she knows which days she will feel better and which days she’ll feel worse, which now-familiar faces of the nurses will be present at the different treatment locations, etc. This knowledge isn’t 100% accurate of course, and sometimes just knowing the cycle doesn’t help when you’re feeling the nausea/neuropathy/cold/fatigue/insomnia/mouth sores/face rash/[fill in misc. symptom here!].

I have noticed that Sara has been tougher though this time about just pushing through the various symptoms and getting out and about, even if it is just to take a walk down her long country driveway on a cold but sunny day (apparently even moderate exercise is helpful as it helps the chemo to move throughout the body). Sometimes she even feels up to riding Brady (her son’s pony), visiting Star, attending a function at her elementary school, or doing some errands. She has also been more disciplined about eating and lost less weight compared to the previous chemo regimen. These efforts all require a great amount of energy – Sara has described the feeling of “cancer fatigue” as one of a deep and hollow exhaustion which isn’t relieved by sleep, compared to pre-cancer feelings of being tired.

Our brother Lars was able to come from NYC to help out for the week of Sara’s 3rd chemo session (March 28), which was a very nice treat for Sara since his visit also spanned Easter. Chemo #3 was also the first one at 80% strength, so it was reassuring for Sara that she would have some extra help during the first week (the most difficult period).

Just a reminder that help with occasional meals is always appreciated – I just checked the Meal Train link and it worked for me, though we’ve heard some feedback that sometimes the site isn’t loading. You can always contact Sara re: FB message or e-mail if you can help out. Keep sending good thoughts Sara’s way as she completes chemo 4 next week and chemo 5 on April 25!

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