I have now completed cycle 7 of drug X and today I met with the oncologist to get labs done and talk about the next steps. Tomorrow I will start cycle 8 of drug X, which will be the last cycle in this course and the last in my chemo treatments. I am scheduled for CT scans of the chest, stomach, and pelvis on February 28. I will then meet again with the oncologist in early March to review the results and see if any further action needs to be taken. In theory, this was my last oncology visit for treatment courses in this journey.
As I was standing in line to get checked in to my appointment this morning, I struck up a conversation with the lady behind me. She looked to be in her 30's . I could see that she came with her parents. They were all carrying bags and looking a little unsure. I asked her if she was getting treatment done that day. She said, "Yes. It's my first treatment." She asked me a few questions about my own diagnosis and if I had lost my hair. When I asked her about her diagnosis, she said it was breast cancer and admitted that she barely remembered what it was called and didn't understand much about it. She said, "It's a subject I never wanted to have to know about. I just want it out of my body". I can relate to that. The cancer journey and treatment process is all so overwhelming in the beginning. Information is coming at you fast and furiously, and most of it seems like a foreign language.
After we both checked in and sat in the waiting area, I searched my purse for a blank piece of paper (seriously searched for about 5 minutes--how can there be so many things in that small purse and nothing to write on?) I finally found a small card and wrote down my name and number and told her to call me if she ever just needed an ear as she navigates through this journey. I think it meant as much (if not more) to her mother as it did to her. I'm grateful to God for every one of these unexpected encounters with other lovely human beings along this journey. And I remember how helpful it was to me when someone reached out to me in an unexpected way during an appointment.
Greg wasn't able to join me at this visit, so I flew solo for my last appointment for drug X. I've been so grateful for his support and companionship all along the way.
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