Monday, October 6, 2008

side effects

Hi- I am nearing the end of my week of Xeloda pills. But I am waiting to hear back from the doctor to see if I need to stop early. I have the redness and sore, tender feet that is a side effect of this chemo. I thought he told me that I might have to stop them if this is the case, because it will get worse before it gets better, esecially if I continue to take the pills after this side effect appears. I also a difficult weekend. I had to cancel plans on Friday night because I was soooo tired, then I cancelled a playdate yesterday to the park because I was so tired. I spent pretty much the whole day yesterday in bed! I really hate feeling like that and staying in bed all day! I was helpless. I try my best to continue life as normal and not focus on "being ill". Most of the time I don't feel ill, therefore I think others forget that I am sick as well. But I do have days like yesterday were I just don't feel good, or am just so tired that I can't do anything. My pain has gotten worse too. Especially at night, when I am lying down. I have increased my pain medication and still haven't had much improvement.
Good news: my mother-in-law is out of the hospital, yaaa! She is still having difficult breathing without additional oxygen but is atleast at home.
I do have blood work tomorrow where they will also draw blood for my CEA and then meet with Mckittrick on Thursday to see how things are going.
Doug took ELla to World's of Fun on Saturday, she had a great time but didn't like the Snoopy character, he was "scary". I didn't go to church yesterday because I was so tired but Ella wanted to go to church school so we took her so she wouldn't miss it. I thought that was great that she wanted to go! I did take her to daycare today so I could rest more. It is so hard to keep up with a two year old when I am worn down from chemo! It is a bit of a challenge at times. I am blessed to have so many people around who help me when I need it. I hope you all are doing well! Thank you to the people who have given me some advice on products to use for my feet/hands. It is nice to have that kind of feedback from people who have experienced it.
talk to you all soon. shawndra

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

Shawndra, honey, i do think we all forget how sick you are and that is a testament to your selflessness. You never focus on yourself. be kind to yourself and rest...also...the blog is here for you to share your pain and heartache too...you are not here to inform and support us...we are here to support you. Let's all remember that and pick her up now on our shoulders. don't be so hard on yourself shawndra...you are a wonder to me .... you have been so brave.
extra prayers and love from minnesota. julie (jill's mom)

Anonymous said...

Hi Shawndra!

Praying that your side effects lessen and you have more energy. You are so truly amazing! Have a great week.

Anonymous said...

I hope that tomorrow your levels are at a level you are comfortable with, and your Doc visits go well. You are always in our thoughts and prayers. And don't beat yourself up over the exaustion of a 2 year old....their energy is something we all could use a bit of! Have a great week.

Anonymous said...

Hi Shawndra,

I'm sorry you've been feeling so tired, and have had the side effects from the chemo pills. I hope you can get the rest you need, and that you feel better as the week goes on. I'll be praying for good news with your blood work, too.

As always, you'll be in my prayers and close to my heart.

Michelle

Susan said...

Hoping the side effect begin to subside and you feel a bit less tired.

My thoughts and prayers are with you!!

Hugs!!

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry you had a "bed" weekend. I didn't want to bother you, as I figured something had come up. I pray you hear good news this week and that the good doc can find a way to make you feel better!
I know your free time is limited, but please let me know if you still want to try to get together. I could be something simple, like me bringing over dessert! ;)
Take care and keep us posted on your lab work and dr appt.

Love, d

Anonymous said...

Shawndra-

Just wanted you to know we are here to help you! You truly amaze me with being a wife, a wonderful mom to Ella, and fighting your sickness. Hope you doctors appointments are a sucess!Thoughts and prayers with you and your family! Keep Believing!!!

The Mudge Family

Anonymous said...

When I was on Xeloda I got sooooo tired too along with the foot problems. Two times we put off the treatmnet for 2 weeks and that helped. Thinking of you Shawndra...Sue

Anonymous said...

Hi, Shawndra. I continue to pray for your healing and comfort. Rest as much as you can, frustrating as it is. People will understand. I will be thinking about your test results and sending positive thoughts your way! =)
Tricia

Liz said...

I hope you are feeling better today.


Liz
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