Finally an update!
I started feeling really bad on Thursday of my first week of radiation (the day after my last post) -- I had rescheduled my daily radiation appointment from 12:20 to 8:30, and was planning to go back to work on Friday, but Thursday after radiation I was just wiped out -- with one of my classic headaches associated with throat and ear pain (from the cancer). It seemed to get worse that first week, and was pretty constant for at least a week after that. Then, suddenly last weekend, the headache cleared (mostly), and I started feeling semi-human again some of the time. That must mean the tumor's shrinking! Cool.
About the time that I started feeling better from the throat/ear/headache, the radiation caught up with me, and my throat started feeling really raw. I'm having trouble eating just about everything -- swallowing is very painful, and most foods sting my throat something awful. I'm down to mostly smoothies, shakes, yogurt, and cottage cheese. Jane made me some scrambled eggs today, but they were pretty hard to swallow.
The radiation and chemo also seem to be sapping my energy. I was able to work for an hour or so yesterday, but then I was wiped out and slept for several hours. But with the awesome support of my wonderful wife, I've been able to rest and not have to do too much. Thanks Jane :)
Also, big shout outs to our friends Zoomer and Pinky, who came through with awesome delivered meals last weekend! Thanks guys!
It's hard to hear about the weakness and throat pain, I feel for you brother. Hope this phase is transitory and quick. Love you.
ReplyDeleteEvery chance you get, on and/or in everything you eat (even solo, just drink tablespoonfuls every now & then):
ReplyDeletehttp://tuscanycateringnj.com/?product=bono-extra-virgin-olive-oil-novello-unfiltered
A literal life-saver.
Also: homemade chicken soup (backs-n-necks, leave all the fat in it, use Acini Di Pepe - little tiny noodle things). You'll have to go gingerly with any pieces of chicken (dark meat is easier than white!) but it's doable and hey -- chicken soup makes everyone feel better!
there are more, but you're on the right track and in good hands. remember - it's a marathon (paulie can tell you about those!); you'll get there, and we're all rooting for you!