It begins, C1d1...

The chemo begins. My husband, Jim, began his first day of cycle one of his chemotherapy. It is abbreviated as C1d1. Jim had treatments on day1, day2, and day3. Day 1 was nearly seven hours of treatment; day 2 was four hours; day 3 was five hours. Jim did very well on all three days. Jim had a good, positive attitude. Nausea was under control. Jim felt good physically, Jim had energy, and Jim felt strong. Jim continued becoming friends with the nurses, and some of the patients. It was amazing that there were no side effects. We were both very pleasantly surprised by no side effects.

Jim’s “Power Port” worked beautifully. The nurses used a special needle that went through Jim’s skin and into the port. They lightly secured this needle with tape to ensure that he didn't bump the needle. There were no multiple pokes to find a vein. There was no tenderness at the entry sight. Jim could not feel the medicine as it entered his body. They were able to deliver the meds at a slightly faster pace because of the port; which meant less time in “the chair.” I was glad that Jim had the port because we witnessed others in the room that struggled with finding a good vein. Those patients had severe bruising up and down their hands and arms. Jim had no pain, and no bruising.

Jim's chemo session on C1d2. 

The side effects begin. Beginning on day 4, Jim began to feel some side effects of the chemo. Jim became nauseated. His physical stamina was decreased. Jim’s positive attitude took a hit because he (and I) had thought perhaps he would avoid the nausea. Jim is not terribly sick, yet, but I’m sure that is to come. Jim’s weight is maintained. Jim has had no signs of hair loss. Both Jim and I understand that Jim will get worse before he gets better, but the reality of this statement is beginning to hit home.