Journal entry by Caitlin Gross —
Life at home has been filled with normal daily activities; like family time, exercising, and chores, but also filled with some fun! The family and I went peach picking at a local farm and treated ourselves with the farm's homemade ice cream. We enjoyed most of the peaches but used a good amount of them in a peach and blueberry cobbler and shared it with some dear friends. A few Sundays back, my family and I took advantage of a beautiful day and went on a bike ride at Tobacco Road trail. We took a few breaks and I held up the rear, but all and all we rode a total of 20 miles! We also had a small outside get-together with Brandon's side of the family to celebrate my father-in-law and brother-in-law's birthdays. Emily and Natalie had their swim team championship last Saturday and swam their little hearts out. Needless to say, I've been really enjoying the last few weeks at home.
Thursday, July 22nd, I had my 4th chemo cycle. I felt particularly tired after this treatment and slept for 17.5 hours! This cycle hit me hard with some nasty side effects and I spent several days glued to the couch. I was admitted to UNC on Wednesday due to my symptoms. A CT scan showed that I had inflammation in my small bowel, near my surgical site, and my colon. I've been given lots of fluids and closely monitored for another bowel obstruction but so far my nausea and pain have decreased and I hope to be discharged on Sunday. My next chemo cycle is on August 11th.
Just wanted to update those who follow my story. I've attached a few pictures of our fun family adventures! The last picture is of me during my last chemo session. I'm wrapped in the quilt my mom made me, isn't she talented?!
Thursday, July 22nd, I had my 4th chemo cycle. I felt particularly tired after this treatment and slept for 17.5 hours! This cycle hit me hard with some nasty side effects and I spent several days glued to the couch. I was admitted to UNC on Wednesday due to my symptoms. A CT scan showed that I had inflammation in my small bowel, near my surgical site, and my colon. I've been given lots of fluids and closely monitored for another bowel obstruction but so far my nausea and pain have decreased and I hope to be discharged on Sunday. My next chemo cycle is on August 11th.
Just wanted to update those who follow my story. I've attached a few pictures of our fun family adventures! The last picture is of me during my last chemo session. I'm wrapped in the quilt my mom made me, isn't she talented?!