Anne, Im sorry you have had a bad week. Its not going to be easy but you will get thru this. Looking back on it, I find myself thinking that it was one of the worst times of my life. Thats the honest truth, its a rough road. You are currently just beginning, it will gradually get more difficult as you get closer to finishing. Thats the most important thing, to finish your treatments. Do your very best to maintain a good level of hydration, 48+ oz water and 2500+ calories daily. The better your nutrition, the easier it will be for you to do this. Keep up eating as much as you possibly can and drink water daily even if its in a few sips at a time. Constipation is a side effect of this so keep an eye on it and take meds for it. A daily tablespoon of karo syrup will help.

You are correct, it could be much much worse! Many patients struggle with depression and take anti-depressants during treatment. Many also will need to see a therapist to help them with what they are going thru. Dont be ashamed if you need help, most people do.

We will be here for you during your treatments. Dont ever feel alone, we are here 24/7 and will help get you thru this.


Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile