I last wrote on “Day 2” of my first chemo cycle and here we are on “Day 5.” I have no idea what happened. I think I’ve been asleep the whole time.

My week progressed pretty much as Chemo 101 had predicted, with Day 4 (Friday) being the worst. Overall I would say I just simply feel like shit, that’s all there is to it. It’s hard to compare it with any other malaise I’ve had: like a combination of hung over + over-tired + the flu (without the stuffiness). I seem to have eased into a routine where the mornings are not too bad, so I’ve been able to take a walk and do some yoga (which feels great). Then I putter around a bit in the morning, then have the most epic midday nap you can possibly imagine – seriously, these naps are absolutely glorious.

Yesterday (Day 4) I went back to the oncology clinic for my “hydration” appointment, which consisted of first receiving an additional infusion of anti-nausea meds, followed by about an hour of IV fluids. (I’d been feeling a bit smug about not being nauseous but now realize that that’s because of all the anti-nausea meds they’ve been pumping into me!) The appointment took longer than I expected and I had not prepared well by bringing warm clothes and snacks, so once I got home I felt pretty spent and slept on and off for the rest of the day.  Thank you to my family for taking care of me!

Today was better – after my midday sleep-gasm, I felt pretty good and was up and about. I am hoping the upswing continues and that Day 4 really was the worst day. And with that, I think I’ve had enough consciousness for one day … good night!