Thats how many different drugs Kathleen had today. Sometimes she feels that she would fizz and blow up if she jumped up and down. All was on track today. No new drugs, so less chance of surprise and we got out just before 5pm. The nulasta ($2,600 drug from last week) did the trick and her white blood count is great. Platelets were low. 95 and they should be 100. Not a show stopper.
We lucked into the nice corner spot again. Although she looks a little tired in this photo, its more because we had to get up extra early to be there for the blood work.
New nurse again. They are all at least good, and most are great and of course there are standouts. Surprisingly quite a range of personalities too. You would think there would be a defined range as to who is able to work here. Empathetic, but not too much so. Today’s nurse is older. There is a very methodical way about her. By contrast, a young nurse often has a small flash of expression that says, ‘ok, what’s next?’, before taking her next course of action. Nothing of the sort for our nurse. She just moves effortlessly from task to task. An IV program complete alarm here, an occlusion alarm there. She glides from one patient to the other with a steadiness a robot would envy. Ironically, she encourages us to check her work and be active in our medicine, because she could make mistakes. Yet she is one of the more accurate ones. Does all the self checks. Does not cut corners. She walks so much more slowly than the younger nurse from a previous visit, but she is far more organized. Like a smart waiter/waitress who never makes a wasted trip, she fills up free hands with items for later use.
Results of Kathleen’s genetic counselling today. No Lynch syndrome. Kath is happy that her siblings and cousins dont need to worry, but at the same time she was hoping for some answers. I guess you cant help but wonder why, but she does not dwell on it which I think is good.
All in all, a better week than last. Although she had some 3 gravol days, there were some ‘two bag’ days which hasnt happened in quite a long time.
—Mike
in the cancer bubble 
Dear MIke nd Katleen,
glad it went well today. Routine is good. Two bag is better than three bag.
Love JUdy
Keep on keeping on you two gorgeous folk. Big love coming at you from Saskatoon. xxx
Dear Kathleen and Mike, pleased to hear you had a better week. I try to picture your experienced nurse in my mind, I can see that she is comforting to you both. You know, even tired Kathleen, you look beautiful. Thinking of you each day, and wishing I had just one quarter of your strength. Hugs, Colleen and Terry
Dear Mike and Kathleen,
Your positive outlook is so remarkable. No matter what life brings your way, you always look on the bright side of life (to quote some lyrics from the Monty Python song). Kathleen, this photo captures your beauty from within and outside too. Mike, you have such a talent with the camera (of course, you are working with an amazing subject). ; – ) Thanks for sharing your days with us through your blog postings.
Big hugs,
Hi Kathleen,
Muriel connected me to Mike’s post and happy to be updated. Out of the loop because I missed the September Zonta meeting.
Dealing with my sister in hospice now ( end of 2 year battle with ALS). You are often in my thoughts. Picture looks great in spite of your struggle. Hugs.
Jane Newman