I realize it's been 2 weeks since my last post. While overall I continue to do very well "on paper" as my doctors say, with normal blood counts and no reason to suspect any GVHD or infections, I am definitely far less strong than a month ago. I have lost a considerable amount of weight and am short of breath at the slightest amount of activity. My attempts to drink the required amount of liquid each day have not been consistently successful, so my visits to the hospital have increased to get liquids intravenously to supplement my oral intake. My tacrolimus (anti-rejection drug) dose has had to be increased in order to keep it in the range the doctors feel gives my enough protection from GVHD. With that of course, comes increased shakiness and itchiness. As well, with the weight loss goes my muscle, which increases the weakness, which increases the tiredness, etc. It's a bit of a vicious circle.
I do not want to sound like I am complaining, I just want you to keep you updated and realize why I haven't been blogging much. The doctors are very happy with where we are at, on Day +51, and let me know that I set a record on Unit 57 for "shortest inpatient stay post-transplant" which is remarkable as this was my 3rd and most of the other patients were on their 1st! Probably the tacrolimus dose, which was 0.5 on Day +1 and is now 2.5, is just starting to kick my butt a bit more than I had expected.
Despite the side effects, I have been able to see some friends and family during the past two weeks, which of course is a wonderful source of healing. A month ago, Tasha had invited me to "chill" with her family (and celebrate being done her radiation and herceptin treatments!) for a few days at Regina Beach next week, and so I booked a flight for this coming Tuesday. Based on how I am feeling now, unfortunately I had to change my plans. The good thing is it's Westjet, so I can use the credit later with Tasha!
So I'll get back to my quest for an easy liquid to drink, and attempts to get this strength thing turned around. I appreciate all the support and energy - I am sucking all of it in! Thanks again. Cheers.
