A bit of pampering and a trip to Whitby

I can't eat anything or even drink water as it tastes metallic and makes me feel sick. Am desperate and upset so ring the ward who tell me to take Tramadol, Paracetamol and Naproxen.

I do as I am told and an hour later after a sleep the pain has eased and I can get up.

16th August
I am in pain again but this time is running to the toilet constantly. I read the info on Taxotere and this can upset your stomach so it is probably normal. I spend all day with upset stomach and have to concede I can't go to work tomorrow.

17th August
I go to see my doctor just to check the stomach symptoms are related to the chemo and he assures me they are, I don't have a temperature and am fit and healthy apart from the obvious but advises me not to take any more anti diarrhoea pills - is he mad!
I last up to 9pm and then have to take some pills as I cant go on like this any more (hopefully will have lost a few pounds though!)

18th August
Yes lost three pounds in weight - not healthy I know but I am not bothered. I see my consultant who advises me to take a couple of medications to help with my stomach upset and by end of the day I feel better. He also prescribes me a longer course of steroids for my next chemo to help me over the symptoms.

19th August
Feeling a bit under the weather today, not sure why. I think I have been thinking about my illness a lot and realising just how serious it is.

21st August
Feeling happy as having a few days off work next week while I am feeling well.

24th August
Had a relaxing weekend and went for a pamper treat today - ; look good feel great' day at Freeman Hospital. This is an afternoon of being pampered by make up artists from various department stores who help you with your make up and you also get a free goody bag.

I was not sure I would like to go after putting my name down as I thought it might turn out to be a bit like a support group for cancer victims but was pleasantly surprised, no one talked about their illness and I even took my wig off for 20 minutes so I obviously felt comfortable being there.

25th August
Did not get out of bed until 9am, this is a first for me as I am normally up early as cant relax. Does this mean I am relaxed or was I just tired last night, I think I have forgotten how to relax as I work so hard to be normal and forget about my illness by trying to occupy myself all the time.

26th August
Late up again this morning, enjoying being off work when I am feeling well although have done nothing other than rest.

27th August
Back to work today and this is the first time I don't want to go. I have been feeling very relaxed the last few days which I have not felt like for a long time but only two days to go then long weekend.

31st August
Bank holiday - we go to Scarborough and Whitby for the day and although it is a long trip in the car I really enjoy it, the weather is sunny and it is nice to go away for the day. I am so tired but can't seem to sleep as I know it is chemo week. Well at least I had a few days of rest and relaxation before reality kicks in again or should I say chemo!