October 22nd, 2024 (forgot to post this one)

Well, I'm a week out from my first round of chemo. And, thankfully, I don't have much to report. I definitely felt the worst last Monday, the day of treatment, and have felt consistently better every single day. To most women, I can kind of describe my symptoms as how I felt during my first trimester. I know that's different for everyone, but I felt tired and had low-grade nausea that would sometimes be worse than others. 

Medically, there has been little to report. On the day after treatment, at 3:00 I remembered I was supposed to get the shot. Bryson (my future scientist) was fascinated by this device so I told him it should be happening soon and then nothing. So, we forgot about it and then around 3:50-ish it started buzzing and beeping and CLICK! Totally accurate description of it feeling like a rubber band pop. My brother used to pop me with rubber bands all the time when we were kids. So, I guess he was getting me ready for this. Thanks, LeVar!

My diet has changed, too. I haven't eaten red meat in over a year. But since treatment, I have been wanting it- which I really haven't even craved at all. Some things I read said my iron may be low, but everything I read said I need to eat more protein, so I guess I'm doing that. Luckily, my mom was here and treated me to a steak dinner that did not disappoint! Brandon and I stocked up on all of these protein drinks and supplements and I can't bring myself to drink any of them. So, I don't know really what I will do about that. But I am trying to listen to my body and still do what I know is best for my health. It's a delicate dance.

I haven't started losing my hair yet. When I was younger, I would describe my hair as a lion's mane, because that's what it always looked like to me. But the plan is for me to cut it before it starts falling out to reduce trauma mostly for Bryson. I have always had hair, but at the same time I don't feel partial to my hair. At least, I say that now. I have always wanted to do a big chop, but never had the nerve to do it so I guess this is forcing my hand. 

Today, I had to have an MRI guided biopsy on the area they found in my right breast. I did not want to do this test and just in case you were wondering I give it zero stars. It was uncomfortable in every way. I mean, I think saying it was torture is a bit hyperbolic, but definitely not fun at all. I will keep you posted on results. 

Tomorrow, I have my meeting with the geneticist and Monday I take Round 2. Let's go!