Strong Medicine

Fatigue is the main side effect I have from the chemo. Mainly after I get a gemzar infusion on Thursdays at MGH I am knocked down with little energy for a day or two. I take another drug in pill form for the rest of the week, and it also slows me down but not as much... It's very frustrating for me, as it keeps me from getting much done.

I take lots of naps!

I'm actually lucky in a way, as I could be having lots of other nasty side effects... so I won't complain too much.

-D

Week Off...

After two weeks on chemo, I just completed my first week off from chemo, and it was a very good week.

Four wet plate artist friends came here from all around the country for our annual art making gathering. Luckily it coincided with my chemo off-week. They filled our house with people and good energy. There was lots of art making, laughing, good art discussions, and the event at times took on a circus-like quality with so much going on at once...

In addition to my standard treatment, I am taking supplements prescribed by the naturopath who specializes in cancer, I'm riding my bike around as much as I can, there are friends who are helping me with diet and nutrition, and an acupuncturist who treats me every Tuesday. I'm happy and positive and focused on living my life while I try and beat this.
I plan to spend a few days a week making art this summer as energy allows...

I'm tolerating the chemo pretty well, so far with only some nausea and fatigue as side affects. Though it knocks down my white blood cell and platelet counts, so that is being watched closely.

Friends from all corners of my life have been signing up to bring a meal on a Monday or a Wednesday, and others have been bringing us things spontaneously... We are blessed with so much support and kindness.

Thank you, it helps alot.

David

Infused!

I'm coming up on the end of my second full week of chemo (it feels like my second month), and I'm coping pretty well and have manageable symptoms. I will then be off chemo for the next week to allow my body to recover...I am looking forward to the break.

Everyday, I continue to work on body and mind.

Yesterday went to a naturopath who specializes in cancer. He seemed very knowledgeable and may be a good compliment to my medical treatment. He knows a lot about cancer cell mechanisms and supplements that may enhance the effects of chemo and others that support my immune system. He also suggested a diet that will help to starve cancer cells of glucose... though it is much more limited than the one I am already on, so we are now weighing all our options to see what will help me the most.

I am about to begin making art again, as I return to my normal life as much as I am able. Right now I am cleaning my darkroom and studio (with help) and getting ready for a chemo free week of picture making...

peace & love,

David