Journal entry by Cara Goulart —
I have reached the half way mark on my journey through chemotherapy. By no means can I say things have been a walk in the park, but on February 11th I received my second round of chemo starting with labs and pre meds at 9:30 am and finishing around 4:00 pm. After my first experience with chemo, every time there are a few adjustments to be made and discussions to be had and approved.
I didn’t do well with the dosage for the Neulasta last time, (given to improve white blood cell count and bone marrow growth), so they made a dosage adjustment. Meaning I had to go back today for an injection instead of the pump I was sent home with on my first treatment. Megan was so excited to be able to accompany me for this appointment as my one allowed support person and was able to get her first look at where I go for my chemo treatments. It ended up being quite a heart touching experience. She was able meet my first nurse Mary, (my angle nurse) the one that was with me and pushed the alarm and gave my breath back. I was overjoyed that Megan had the opportunity to meet her. She remembered me well and said she stopped in to see me yesterday during my chemo but I was settled in an bundled up with all the premeds working so she’s didn’t bother me and just checked my pump.
From the start with Covid and all of the restrictions it was hard on me going though most of this alone but Megan had a big desire to be able to somehow be with me through every experience. I’m not sure I realized how hard it was on her but I’m so glad she had that opportunity.
I’m learning to embrace being without hair in these arctic temperatures we're experiencing right now. I have acquired a pretty good variety of headwear to choose from and a ridiculous amount of lotions and salves to try to manage the dry skin from chemo and these temperatures aren’t helping.
We are forever grateful to everyone that has supported our family and has been so unbelievably giving and loving. Our hearts are truly overwhelmed!! ❤️