Day 78: Graduation Blue Crystals

I had an outing today - the first for a week - back to see the lovely Dr Rachel, my oncologist. She's such a wonderfully kind and sympathetic person. She listens intently to everything you have to say, is gentle in her examinations, and asks lots of questions. Today was all about understanding my reaction to the docetaxel and preparing for next Tuesday's infusion. All the side effects I've suffered in the past two weeks are common on this drug - which Rachel describes as harsh - though I know I haven't had it half as bad as many people, including avoiding the nerve sensitivity in my fingers and toes, thank goodness. Therefore, she sees no need to reduce the dose and just crack on. Rob and I agree. She hopes the next round won't be quite as tough as I'm able to have the white blood cell injection, which means I may have increased aches and pains in the short term, but hopefully more energy and fewer side effects across the three weeks.

To add to the excitement of my day, Rob and I had a quick excursion around the supermarket on the way home - I became paranoid about how many germs I was exposing myself too, even just pushing the trolley, so was happy to get home. This short outing exhausted me and I spent the afternoon resting.

Me and Ree, Italia 1986

I had  lovely catch up on the phone with big sister Ree late this afternoon. This was in lieu of her trip to Sydney this weekend as she too has a lurgie and can't come near me, which is very disappointing. I know she wants to come and check up on me, and help out in anyway she can, so it's doubly hard for her, but I'll look forward to seeing her soon.

Meg's care package

Another highlight of my day was receiving a gorgeous care package from Meg (Day 52). She's been knitting great headwear for me (and to share with fellow patients) and included a lovely pair of pink earrings and, so thoughtfully, had a locket made with my favourite photo of Mum and I, so I can keep her close. This will be a must have during the next two treatments and beyond. I'm so touched!

Hugh, Lindy and Chris

Being attacked by Hugh and Charlie 2001 

Today is the 20th birthday of my lovely nephew Hugh. He's such a credit to his parents: a true young gentleman, a AFL sports star, a kind brother and cousin. It's wonderful seeing him progress through his degree in environmental science, and to start exploring the world on his own, including a trip to Europe last Christmas. Happy birthday Hughie!

Day 78 and I'm wearing a pair of light blue crystal earrings that I got to mark my PhD graduation in 1998. They were from a great earring shop in Balmain which no longer exits. I love their colour, the way they catch the light, and move, akin to some of those earrings you see in those films set in the late 19thC. (Yes, tragically, that's what I'm often concentrating on when watching TV and movies!).