Well it's Monday and the 4th and final day Andy is to receive chemo. He really started to feel the effects yesterday, which included nausea, exhaustion, edema and a little confusion/cognitive impairment. Being the warrior that he is, Andy has played the tough guy to a tee, but his humanity has caught up with him and he has been enjoying the comfort of his hospital bed.
Today he will receive Etoposide, his last chemo drug followed by a 24 hour drip of another non chemo drug. While Andy was really wanting to get out of the hospital today, he simply will not be able to be discharged until Tuesday around noon. Unfortunately the hardest days are ahead of us as the chemo really does have a compounding effect, so days 7-10 will be the worst. Regardless, Andy still has high spirits, as I am sure you would expect nothing less!
Some of the most interesting effects of the chemo are to his taste buds. I successfully broke him out of the hospital yesterday again (something we are getting good and stealthy at) to go get some Chuy's tortilla soup. This was the only thing I could convince him sounded appetizing. Unfortunately though, similar to the Yucatan burrito he had the day prior, Andy couldn't taste much of the soup. He was convinced however that his home made tortilla soup he makes tastes sooo much better. Funny he made that comparison without functioning taste buds! LOL.
Another interesting insight into this whole experience is Andy's new love for Milk Shakes, particularly the home made variety. Since before the official diagnosis, Andy started to find comfort in milkshakes. So when yesterday's craving hit and we were unable to find an Arby's near by, and Chick-fil -a was closed (Sunday of course), we had to improvise. I was able to locate some Blue Bell downstairs in the cafeteria. When I asked Andy what flavor he wanted he sort of made up his own (I am blaming the cognitive impairment from the Chemo). Since I had no idea what "cookie creamy buttered pecan" was with a "scoop of mint chocolate chip", I just brought back a pint of mint chocolate chip, buttered pecan and cookies and cream. The look on Andy's face when I brought 3 pints of ice cream back was priceless! If you know Andy he is normally the veggie and fruit kinda guy. I am just happy he is eating!
We will continue to keep you posted. Please keep up the prayers and words of encouragement.
Sincerely,
Alex
Chemo is brutal on the taste buds but milkshakes make everything better!! I'm sure Andy will have the hospital bowing to his will before he leaves- weightlifting will be mandatory for chemo patients:) Everyone's journey through cancer is unique so find laughter and joy where you can and thanks for letting us come along.
ReplyDeleteKim
Im not surprised he is finding comfort in milkshakes, Dad used to always make them homemade for us when we were kids!!!! I remember vividly one night him getting upset over something and dumping the entire bowl over hi head in protest!!!! too funny, love you guys, hang in there. this too shall pass
ReplyDeletexoxox
When I read he has turned to milkshakes, I had to chuckle. During each of my pregnancies, when the nausea would hit I would send my husband out at all hours for a shake. Nothing else would suffice. There's a power in those things, no doubt! Will keep prayers pouring your way, Andy.
ReplyDeleteAndy -
ReplyDeleteI'm in Bible study with your amazing sister, Liz, and just want you to know that there are a number of Richmond women raising you up in prayer right now. I am asking Him for a complete and quick recovery for you. Enjoy your milkshakes!
Elizabeth Martin