The Chemo Debate

• Have you thought about the side effects?
• They’re not good for you!
• But you’re not terminal?
• It’s not worth it!
• …Won’t someone please think of the children!?!?

Wow – the stories I’d heard from (doctor) people about receiving chemotherapy. I know most have my best interests at heart, but regardless – I have to get rid of my MS!

If they had to break open my kneecaps with a bat to apply it or pull off my toenails – so be it.

But, I’m sat here on my hospital bed, glass of Coke in hand, after a bit of fish for my tea, feeling pretty good, actually.

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The Reality vs. The Fear

Instead, in my case. It’s been as pleasant as sitting in a Winchester armchair, wearing smoking jacket, having your single malt topped up for the second time.

Okay – swap the scenery for a hospital bed, a drip, and a three-hour wait.

But considering the juxtaposition, you hopefully get the idea.

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Four Days of Chemo – The Experience

My first dose of chemotherapy came on Thursday. Naturally, I wondered what could happen – no smoke without fire and all that.

But no issues.

Friday was fine – with a touch of added entertainment (questioning old gits, tangled wires – nothing freaky).

Saturday – I got the hang of it.

And today (Sunday) – I actually enjoyed it. Simply knowing it was the last dose, finishing off the job – and, as always, they come with the heavy need to sleep, good sleep.

Dr. Fedorenko has talked about how he’s refined his chemotherapy over time – ensuring it’s effective but not overkill.

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So, What Did It Feel Like?

For me – the complete layman – I’ve just had four days of a lot of chemotherapy fluid, and I feel perfectly comfortable.

• No nausea.
• No sweats.
• No headaches.
• No pain.

As far as I felt – it may as well have been water.

The only things I’ve noticed?

• I’ve needed the loo a lot (so much fluid & saline drips).
• My hands are a very dry.
• Occasionally tingly feet.
• I get sleepy.
• Every now and then, MS tries to make itself more pronounced.

But overall? I’ve been perfectly comfortable.

Testament to the genius of Dr. Fedorenko, his accompanying medication, and the excellent care of his staff.

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Chemo Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

No doubt, not all chemotherapy experiences are the same. Without a doubt, it’s not always easy and not always painless. But I feel incredibly fortunate to have had such an invasive therapy and still feel lively enough to write about it as I receive it.

For many, chemotherapy brings hope of ridding a potentially terminal illness.

For me, I hope it brings relief.

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What’s Next?

Tomorrow, I imagine there will be many blood tests and checks to see if all has gone well.

I appreciate it’s still early days for me – but the other patients here are still smiling, and I know that I’m going to sleep well tonight.

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Watch My Video!

Please watch my video from this morning’s dose. I talk about my experience with chemotherapy and what it’s really like.

I hope I’ve alleviated people’s concerns about this major part of HSCT.