The First Dose
Last week marked six years since my first chemotherapy dose. Looking back at photos of that time, I can't believe how long ago it was (seems like a lifetime), and how fast it went by. I was asked how the first dose went--what it was like--and it brought me back to the first day. After researching, I had a backpack loaded with helpful items. The tech checked me into my suite and I settled into the heated recliner. She suited up and brought in four IV bags. Bag #1: Benedryl and saline--To help me stay hydrated and prevent an allergic reaction to chemo. Bag #2: Steroids and saline--These prevent nausea and other stress responses to chemo. Bag #3: Taxotere: Used to treat breast cancer; neuropathy and permanent hair loss are side effects. Bag #4: Cytoxan: No longer available in the U.S.; causes inflammation and loss of nails. As the first bag went in, I just felt a cool sensation. No pain at all. And then I had to pee. And then I napped. The next five hours were basically na...