Had my second part of cycle two on Thursday. My WBC's this time were still low 2.3, and my ANC (absolute neutrophil count), which are a sub set of white cells, were 1.0. The ANC cut off per MD for receiving chemo is about 1.0, however I still was able to receive my treatment. I had given myself neupogen ( a WBC builder) for 4 days, so this next time they want me to take it for 5 days.Thank goodness for insurance, the cost of 8 neupogen shots $2,500, my cost $30, crazy eh, and if I got the pre filled syringes which insurance wont pay, the cost was $4,300.

This last treatment really kicked my butt. I was really tired and just wanted to sleep all the time, I think I slept about 16 hours a day, the couch being my favorite spot during the day. I had slight nausea, but horrible diarrhea with cramping and spasms. This lasted about 4 days and by Tuesday my energy level had improved and the diarrhea was much improved. I realized today when my oral mucous membranes start to return to normal color then my GI symptoms are better and when my mouth is white and sore then the GI system is the same. Now I know what to expect, I can at least prepare for it. Lying on the couch however, and not having the energy to do anything was very depressing.

Fiona seems to be doing fine. She said she's felt sad at times when she sees me looking sick but that it also made her "feel tired" when she saw me sleep (so being a typical teenager she would take advantage and have a nap also.) She will be 16 in 2 weeks, and when asked what she wants to do for her birthday she says, nothing. Unfortunately her birthday will fall between my next cycle, as my treatments will be on the 31st and 7th, so I'm probably not going to be too much fun.

In 3 days we should have been on our way to Australia for our much needed month long vacation. I guess it's just postponed and we'll do it some time in the near future.

A couple of positive notes to end with: having no hair saves shampoo and conditioner, but the biggest advantage is the time it saves getting ready in the morning, no blow drying!!

Again thanks to everyone for everything.

Karen