May 3rd - Chemo #8, after a great weekend I really didn't want to go in

So first off, the good news. My back pain subsided on Friday and by Saturday I was up for all the the events at the Stowe Weekend of Hope, in Stowe VT. It is a cancer conference that attracks hundreds of people from all over the Northeast. There were back to back discussions on different aspects of cancer care. So Heath and I had a very busy day on Saturday. We met some amazing survivors of all different types of cancer and from all different backgrounds. It is unbelievable how much we all have in common. You couldn't find a more kind and inviting group. All of the volunteers and staff members were extremely caring and helpful. I sat in on some very useful discussions.

There was a Young Cancer Survior's discussion that was particularly helpful for me. Many of the survivors speaking, had to deal with similar issues that surround fighting cancer while trying to raise a family and keeping your career in check.

In the afternoon, I was invited to go for a 4 mile run/walk with the LLS Team in Training members there, I am proud to say, I made it the whole way! (Last, of course)

There was a dance benefit that evening that Heath and I went to, and I was able to spend some time with the other young survivors and get to know them a little better. I actually got some great tips on meds that I am trying with my doc this time around.

I was sad to come home Sunday, especially knowing that I was going to get chemo again and feel crappy all over once again.

Riley cheerfully reminded me this morning that I am now 2/3's of the way through. He is so funny sometimes. He rarely talks about it and just when you think he isn't paying attention to stuff like that he really surprises you.

The chemo it's self was ok today. They are having to give me more and more stomach meds each time because I get nauseous even while its being administered. Unfortunately, most of the time, the side effects of chemo are cumulative. So they build in your body and get worse with each treatment. But they do have some great anti-nausea meds out there, but they make you extremely tired. Hey, I'll take walking around like a zombie over throwing up anyday! But, even with the good meds, the first 3 days or so are miserable and I haven't been able to keep anything down today.

I will go back to the dr's office tomorrow for IV fluids and more stomach meds.