AML: Day -5, Station 94

There was not much to tell yesterday, so I didn't post. I just had to report to the hospital to get my port dressing changed and flushed. We moved into the Gift of Life House and relaxed.

I reported to the Methodist hospital at 7:45 this morning to Station 94. Station 94 sounds kind of cool, like we're in some secret government facility. Unfortunately, it turns out it is just me and a bunch of other sick people.

Disclaimer: In an effort to help people understand the experience, I've decided to share more of the more "personal" elements of this treatment. I've keep some of the things to myself up to this point, but am hearing from others that are in similar situations as I. So I want to paint the full picture.

The room here his very similar to what I am used to at Sanford. The room has its own air filtration system. People have to wash their hands as they come and go.

My meds started right away. I don't have all the names but here's the basics

Actigall: Conditioning and protection for my liver. (I started this a few days ago)
Antifungal: Preventitive for fungal infections
Antibiotic: Preventitive for bacterial infections
Antiviral: Preventitive for viral infections
I also get a shot in the belly that is additional protection for my liver.

The chemo I am getting is called Cytoxan. It's a nasty one from what they tell me. So much so that it will burn the lining of my bladder if we don't do something about it. So that brings me to the more personal part of this. To protect my bladder they have to do a constant flush while I am on the chemo. So I get a new experience... my very first catheter.

Ouch. I am glad it will only be for 48 hours. I am not sure how anyome would get used to something like that. The good news is I should be able to have some epic Xbox sessions as I won't have to get up and go to the bathroom. Like I said, it is a constant flush... they push liquids in, I push them out. So I have literally been peeing since 10:00 this morning.

I've finished my chemo for the day. So half done with Chemo. Everything is going fine. No major side effects yet. Some tiredness, but that is about it. Appetite is fine and the food has been solid. Once the catheter is removed on Tuesday, I'll have a little more freedom to come and go. Even leave the hospital between radiation treatments if I want. We will see.

Andy arrived tonight (YES!). Mom will head some in the morning.  Mom has been great company this week, but I don't think she is used to the slower pace.  So at the moment I have the luxury of having both my caregivers taking care of me.

I am comfortable and doing well.