On top of it!

I hate Chemo. Make no mistake – it sucks. However, this cocktail is definitely not as hard on me. And I have gotten better at managing it. 

Its day 3 post chemo today and I am actually typing in my blog. Not much health to report since my last blog. I thought I would just expand on my weight. During the first 4 months of chemo I would drop to 137/138 pounds and then struggle to get up to 145 for my next round of chemo. This was a combination of my diet, the two day prior fasting and higher toxicity of the drugs I was taking. 

I have been less concerned about the diet and I no longer fast before my chemo. It is about trying different things in the hopes something works. And it is not just about beating cancer but also getting the quality of life while doing it. I still try to eat well, but I am less strict on things and I don’t stay away from anything if I feel like eating or drinking it. – In moderation of course…

As I mentioned before my mental state has been pretty good too. We have been trying to get away here and there and I find that when one vacation is planned, I am already thinking about the next one. We have a california adventure we have been planning for a while and it is almost here. However, I am already thinking past it to have something else to look forward to. That “looking forward” to something has been a huge help for me. 

Heading out next week with my parents and sister’s family to Disneyland and San Diego for two weeks. I pushed back chemo another week to do this. Its anyone’s guess if this is a good thing or bad thing. But I don’t want to just be on chemo and focusing on my disease. No one knows how much time I have – so I will enjoy what I can. I am also trying to get out a little more – meeting with friends, going into work. A little routine is shining a light back into our home. 

When we get back I will have 3 rounds of chemo in June and then another scan. If all shows well, I am going to take 4 weeks off chemo in July. If it shows REALLY well, maybe even more!!! 🙂 But I don’t want to get my hopes up too much. Plans change quickly in my situation. 

On a life note, my family is doing great. Renee has been doing her amazing juggling act running our household and Audrey is 4 going on 10 I think. And she has also surpassed her father as the worlds slowest person when it comes to getting ready. You all know how great I am at it – well she makes me seem fast. Hilarious and frustrating at the same time, but I guess I deserve it!

Renee is getting busier with her weddings and events (its that time of year) and Audrey has lots going on too. Soccer, Gymnastics, Dance, Music and swimming. Not really uncommon for kids but it does make for a busy schedule.

Finally had to bite the bullet and have the shingles replaced at our house. I have pushed it back the last two years, but there is no avoiding this year. Also having some of the old windows replaced. There is mould inside them and they just look crappy. I am afraid to open them…

Anyway, even though it poured rain today it wasn’t snow. Feel pretty good and getting excited for our trip Tuesday. Thanks for comments and messages. I appreciate and enjoy reading them. Will update with pics of our trip when I can.

Slow it down,

Dan

 

 

 

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About Dan

I am an average guy battling a not so average disease called Stage 4 Colon Cancer. I was born in 1974 in Richmond, BC and moved to Calgary, AB in 1986 - where I still reside. I started this blog in November of 2013. So I have some catching up to do. I write this for my many wonderful family members and friends who have supported me throughout my life. But, appreciation beyond words goes to my wife, my mom, my dad and my sister. You are my sole. Most importantly this is for my daughter. My little rumplebum. To share in parts of my life's journey once you are old enough and to remember our time together. I love all of you, Dan

9 thoughts on “On top of it!

  1. Hey Dan.
    Thanks for the update. I think you’re wise to consider the health benefit of eating things you like(and maybe even in the amounts you like). I think that approach might dump endorphins into your bloodstream boosting your immune system. Same for the quality of life: work, friends and events.
    Love ya,
    Ron

  2. If a holiday keeps you in a good frame of mind go on and enjoy every minute. Something to look forward to is what helps a lot of people to keep going in a lot of situations. California is a great place to visit. Been there quite a few times and loved it. Even took in Disneyland with our oldest son, wife and granddaughters. Had a blast. I’m sure you will too.

  3. We took your advice today and slowed it down. We were running around, tackling errands and Sofie fell asleep in the car. We stopped at a beautiful, country riverside park and all napped and relaxed. Thanks for the reminder 😀

    1. Enjoy every minute on your trip. glad to hear things are going well. Big hugs to you guys. I’ ll call your Mom soon, as we are coming out in june so hope to have a visit with them.

  4. I so appreciate the update Dan! Thanks for this again. I hope your upcoming trip is brilliant and restorative! Sending you lots of energy and love.
    Best wishes … to you and your beautiful family!
    Patti

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