As you know, Charmaine has been getting full body radiation twice a day for 3 days to prepare her body for the new stem cells. Today she finally completed the last two radiation treatments. This was a new experience for her and she had to rely totally on what the doctors told her to expect as far as side effects. The unknown was a little scary for her...you know she's a planner!
The side effects she is experiencing (headache, nausea, upset digestive system, tingling/itchy/stinging skin, swollen facial glands) have been minimal so far. The effects on the first day were slightly worse, but the doctor said that was normal. She is relieved that the radiation is over.
On Saturday, I'm not sure exactly what time yet, she will receive an hour of high dose chemotherapy, then again on Sunday. The side effects are expected to be more intense, but there is a list of medicines they plan to give her before the chemo starts to lessen or pre-treat the effects. We hope and pray that the meds will help and the effects won't be severe. Either way, this hard part is only temporary and will have such a happy ending!!
One of us will try to keep you updated on her condition over the weekend. Nat is with her tonight (Friday) and said she is feeling better and was resting good.
To those of you wondering..."Everybody's Pizza" was great and she thoroughly enjoyed it!
Keep Charmaine and her donor, all the doctors, nurses, and caregivers in your prayers!
From a little plaque in her kitchen at home..."She believed she could do it...so she did." Author Unknown
Stefanie
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