Journal entry by Kalanit Chappell —
Update: This week following my hospital discharge has been notably positive. I've experienced a significant improvement in my well-being, engaged in some cooking activities, spent quality time with my daughters, and even accompanied Will for a brief errand to the grocery store.
Navigating the neutropenic diet presents its challenges, particularly during Passover, compounded by my prior inclination towards a predominantly raw diet. Adhering to the requirement of cooking everything and discarding leftovers older than 24 hours poses adjustments. This next week when I have the worst of the chemo side effects will likely be the most challenging.
Anticipating the upcoming chemotherapy session on Thursday evokes considerable apprehension. I intend to confer with the oncology team regarding the feasibility of more frequent monitoring of my neutrophil levels to mitigate the risk of extreme white blood cell declines despite receiving the shots. I am thinking I might need shots longer than 5 days, and perhaps fluids around days 5 and 6 to further help keep the neutrophil numbers above 0.50.
Regrettably, the timing of chemotherapy coincides with my daughter's university graduation ceremony scheduled for Sunday, meaning my physical attendance will not be possible. This makes me profoundly sad. However, having progressed from initial emotional distress to a state of acceptance, I take solace in the fact that I will be able to view her commencement via livestream. I am immensely proud of her achievement, graduating cum laude.
I know I say this at the end of most posts but I truly mean it - thank you all for your love and support.
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