Chemo Day 1!

Catherine's first day of chemo was LONG! Because there were lots of consents to sign, blood tests results to wait on, and the doctors administered everything very slowly in case of possible reactions, we were in the infusion center from 9am until 6:30pm. But, long day short, everything went great and the fight is on!

After doctors okayed the placement of the port, nurses drew blood that was sent away for testing to ensure white and blood cell counts were high enough to begin chemo. An hour later, Catherine was started on saline and a slew of pre-treatment drugs: Benadryl and Pepcid, to prevent reaction and suppress hypersensitivity, Aloxi, to prevent nausea, and Dexamethasone a steroid to stimulate appetite, prevent nausea and prevent allergic reaction. Then after an hour, Taxol, the first chemo was started. They carefully monitored Catherine’s vitals and other than a quick spike in temp that went away just as fast, she had no problematic reactions. After that was complete, they began pre-treatment drugs for Carboplatin, the second chemo. This consisted of prednisone and more saline.

After a long day, the first treatment was done! Quincy left early to pick up Catherine’s anti-nausea prescriptions before the pharmacy closed, and Catherine and Jane felt good enough to take the subway home. They left with instructions to get lots of rest, take the anti-nausea medication twice daily, and to stay away from crowds and germs. After a good night sleep, Catherine woke up feeling pretty good! Many of the effects take a few days to kick in, but we hope Catherine continues to have the energy and high spirits she’s had today!

Killing time at chemo, joking around about short haircuts to come and sending selfies to friends!