When it's all over (treatment, that is)

Realities - both positive and interesting. Positive of treatment being over is fairly obvious. No more of this chemo crap hanging over my head. When my energy starts coming back, it should stay that way - it's no longer a sign that I have another treatment coming. No more couch-riddled fatigue and concern of seizure activity due to the level of tiredness. Perhaps a return of some weight lifting.

The interesting part is that this type of cancer doesn't have remission, per se. The doctors are mostly continuing to monitor the tumor to make sure it shows no sign of progression/growth. And, I will still be on my anti-seizure medications. I heard a friend recently talk about someone they knew who had a seizure after 10 years without one. That is scary. But I also imagine that kind of fear is akin to fearing your airplane will crash or train will derail.

So, I'm looking forward to having a bigger part of my life back, with less fatigue, identifying as a person other than that of a patient, being a more productive employee, a more helpful spouse/partner/housemate, a more fit individual, a more active/fun friend, and who knows what else!? The world may be my oyster. I've never been post-treatment before, so it's time to explore and see what is in store.

Health update

Just finished another week of chemo. I had what we like to call a mini seizure less than a month ago after a weekend of a lot of activity - mini episode = fully awake, less than 20 seconds, regained mobility in my left limbs in under 30 mins.

I have another dose of Avastin tomorrow, which is supposed to help with my swelling around the tumor.

Only 2 rounds of chemo remain. November 19th is my last dose!

My vision seems to keep getting worse. I had my eyes tested a few months ago and got new glasses, but they already seem to be not working as well.

I've been having some joint pain that none of my doctors seem to be able to understand. But just one of those other by products of chemo, likely. It comes with so many joys.

Speaking of older people. Brad and I are starting to look ahead to January and hoping that this is the year that we can restart our joint birthday party in Charlotte. My 40th, his 45th. Our State College friends know - food, games, carrot cake.