POWER PORT™️! (Sang as an opening theme song to a kids action show)

This week was full of appointments to wrap up loose ends before starting treatment next week. On Monday, I got my POWER PORT™️! This will allow blood draws and chemo to be given through an IV with less risk of infection and in effort to keep my veins intact. It was déjà vu checking into the day surgery unit at the hospital. I had just been there (literally same room) a month earlier, for my biopsy. I had less nerves this time as I sort of knew what to expect in terms of anesthesia. I was given a different sedative this time and upon waking, had a throwback to fun drunk Janene circa 2001. That was a little unexpected. Luckily that quickly wore off and we were able to go home. The site is sore, but manageable without meds and is healing nicely. 

Me, without sedatives, announcing to Kaveh that I am a blogger now and need a willing photographer.

Me, post sedatives, concocting a lawsuit about portal incision being on my left side when previously discussed it would be on the right. At this point I thought that small purple spot was the only incision as I was minutes out of the OR where I told the nurse she was beautiful. 

Scars are beautiful? 

On Tuesday, I had my EKG to check out my heart function. One of the chemo’s is particularly hard on the heart, so this test is routinely ordered prior to starting treatment. When we showed up I thought to myself that it was so stupid to have Kaveh skip work to come to this appointment with me. But then a 60 year old man came to retrieve me from the waiting room and I was grateful to have Kaveh in the room with me as the tech slimed ultrasound goo all over my chest. Sorry, no pics.

On Wednesday, my mom came with me to meet with a naturopathic oncologist. It was insightful to learn about natural ways to combat the side effects of chemo. Maybe some of them will actually work. I’m not sure I can stick to the strict no added sugar suggestion on my meal plan as I self prescribe my friends Ben and Jerry to get me through any of life’s rough patches. YOLO!

On Thursday, I had blood work followed with a lung function test. Another routine test to check the base line of my lungs before the toxicity of another one of the chemo’s. They will recheck my lungs after chemo too. I have to be grateful that I’ve never been a smoker. I probably would have benefited from a little more physical activity though. I always check the yes box to the question “do you exercise daily” and then write in a caveat “by chasing children.” Kaveh rolled his eyes as I repeatedly failed a portion of the lung test. The tech assured me it was not my lungs, but my blowing technique. Will chasing children be enough? Stay tuned.

Me, in the bad breath chamber, failing that damn lung test. 

The weekend ahead will be full of rest, headscarf/wig shopping and visiting with family and friends in preparation for the unknown just around the corner. I’m staying strong, positive and focused. I got this!

Xoxo

J