Immunocompromised Already
What took five full cycles last time took one this time. My white blood cell count is already at the point where we're discussing options. So far, the immune boosting shot isn't on the table, we're going to try adjusting chemotherapy dose instead and see how that works. This, and my nausea response, have driven home that even though I'm calling this cycle one again, it's really more like I restarted at cycle 17, with my tolerance already much, much lower than where I started originally.
The following was originally posted November 21, 2022
Cycle 5 Day 13
Today I found out that my immune numbers had finally fallen past the point where something has to be done. I had the option to delay my treatment a week and allow it to recover, or start another drug that's designed to do the same.
I chose the drug. There are too many appointments, especially my CT scan Monday, that would be either too much effort to reschedule, or would not be able to be scheduled soon enough. I'm extremely unenthusiastic about a needle in the belly, but it's better than getting sick from the bacteria that naturally live on me all the time.
The drug is also the first time I'm going to have to pay for my treatment. Were I 65, OHIP would completely cover it. Because the whole system is designed for a specific sort of person getting treatment for cancer. My work plan covers it, so no one needs to worry about me in this regard, and without the CT scan so close I might have opted to wait an extra week, just to see what it would be like.
From the comments
James Petrosky: I've already been only visiting stores during off hours and have next to no in person social contact. I've been essentially acting like I was in this situation since September. The Covid-19, influenza and assorted childhood disease situation locally is more than a bit alarming, but I'm doing what I can to keep myself safe and there is no need for any worry on my behalf.
James Petrosky: Oh! Also, side effect of new drug is bone pain. Which is the least pleasant sounding combination of two words I've heard in a very long time.
Mica: I love when healthcare systems say you're too young to have the disease you have. 🙄 Like, thanks I'm cured
James Petrosky: A side effect of electing mostly old politicians I guess. More seriously, the whole system kind of assumes an older patient. And all I've seen are older.