home stretch - hallelujah!

I've bounced back from this last infusion much more quickly than in weeks past. The fatigue hasn't been quite such an ass-kicker. But I am noticing other side effects that are actually quite annoying. My joints ache SO bad, even when I get up from sitting for a mere 5 minutes. A hot shower every morning helps, but by the end of the day, walking up the stairs is a chore! I am also feeling some neuropathy in my fingers and a weird ache/pain in all my toes. And last, (hopefully!) is some weird vision stuff. A couple of times now I've woken up in the morning and my right eye is completely dark. It lasts for about 30 seconds and then it comes back into light. But it's a trip, I get confused thinking I just haven't opened my eyes. I saw the eye doc yesterday for my annual exam and he said it's unlikely that it's connected to chemo but I'm hoping it will clear up within the next few weeks. All these symptoms creeping up at the tail end of this shit makes me grateful that it only lasts 12 weeks (and maybe it's WHY it only lasts 12 weeks), the body can only take so much abuse.

I've spent some time getting ready for my last day of chemo. I bought the book Living Well Beyond Breast Cancer and have liked what I've read so far. And I've got the gifts for the nurses that I've spent the most time with. Burts Bees skincare gift packs and Peets gift cards. I will bake some cookies to give to the whole infusion center. On Wednesday evening I'm gathering with family and a few close friends at a local restaurant for a small and VERY low key celebration. It will be emotional on many levels, but mostly from the perspective of thanks. I literally would not be here, feeling as optimistic and happy, without the support of everyone around me. Every little bit helps. And hey - keep it coming, the ride's not quite over...