November - 2009

With this first onset of somewhat colder weather, I'm noticing some neuropathy (numbness) in some of my toes on my right foot. I guess that it takes quite a while for all of the chemo meds to exit your system.

We went to another memorial service. This time it was my sister's brother-in-law. I sure hope that these occasions end for awhile soon.

Still disputing hospital bills that go back to when I had my surgery last year in June of 2008! Latest letter says the my healthplan had *revised* the amount they were to pay which leaves me with more of a co-pay. I've already paid $250 for this one bill. Oh well, it is what it is?

Christmas Time

"Tis the season...I'm trying to keep a positive outlook, but I haven't done much shopping for Christmas gifts yet and next week is my 11th cycle of chemo. Stress and anxiety are kicking in.

Many have told me that the last two cycles can be the toughest with the cumulative side effects of the oxaliplatin mostly. It's also getting a lot colder and I'm already wearing layers to keep warm.

The neuropathy, fatigue and digestive tract "issues" seem to be the worst, as they have been since starting chemo. I can't feel the little "bumps" on the "f" and "j" keys, so typing is slow and I have to keep going back to correct things.

I'm also trying to add my guitar parts to an annual Christmas collaboration project that I've been doing for the past three years now. This year's song is "Please Come Home For Christmas" and is dedicated to the military troops overseas and to others who haven't been able to get home for a long time. I'll post a link to the song when it's finished.

Birthday

Monday, October 6th (yesterday) was my 57th Birthday (but I don't feel a day over 56).

Just a quick note to thank everyone for the birthday greetings and well wishes!

I'm still fighting a nagging cold after 3 weeks now. Not sure if it was brought on by my flu shot last week, the weather, the chemo meds or just my weakened immune system?,