Hi Family & Friends,

As of today, I have completed one round of chemotherapy and 16 radiation treatments. I'm happy to report that overall I've been feeling so much better than I thought I would.  I'm eating well, getting good sleep, not experiencing much pain, and contending mostly with trying to keep a full, but not overfull bladder for treatment everyday (except weekends)! I have 12 radiology treatments left (scheduled to end on May 20) along with 4 more days of chemo that begin a week from now.  

Some of the side effects of the chemo and radiation that I feared, and still do to some degree, are weight loss, mouth sores, pain, fatigue and feeling sick overall. Weight loss can be a problem, but I have had a strong enough appetite that I've only lost a few pounds so far. I don't even crave chocolate at the moment. Shocking!  Probably a good thing. I've experienced "dry mouth" from the chemo, but not from radiation. I have experienced some fatigue, but again, I’m surprised that I feel so good. Grateful for that! Any pain I have had, I've been able to curb with Extra Strength Tylenol.  I've been trying to walk some each day, but I can still feel how I'm experiencing muscle loss. They really encourage exercise, and I totally believe in it, but I feel busy enough with treatment that it seems hard to find time to exercise. Once a week I see the Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Ikizler. I like him. He checks in to see how I'm doing. Suzanne, his nurse is terrific, too. The entire staff has been so gracious and kind and patient. I appreciate each one of them and respect how hard they work.  

Several of you have inquired about helping out, providing meals, or coming to visit. I don't think we need any help right at this moment (though that could change very quickly). A meal here or there, though, would be greatly appreciated. (I don't have many dietary restrictions, though protein/vegetables are a priority to keep my strength up.) Most of all, I would love to have short visits if you're interested in stopping by. My energy is low, so an ideal visit would be about 10-20 minutes. My treatment takes most of the morning, so visits are best from about 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm.  

If you are able to help with any of the above, or if you would like to come by for a visit, please text my son Frank at 617-271-4781, and he'll coordinate the details.

I appreciate all of your prayers and positive thoughts!

Love,

Susan