The funny thing about so many diseases out there is that they do not have a regular shelf life! By that I
mean they never end until you die. Even a cure, or remission brings with it the big word: Maintenance.
Just when you think things are going along fairly well, then a pandemic hit! Boom, now you have two
major issues to deal with instead of just your disease. Yes, you are in remission again, but you want the
COVID vaccine asap to continuing living your life as normal as possible. My Oncologist/Hematologist are
extremely conservative. He made sure I stayed off Darzalex my (golden ticket), for two months pre-
vaccine and two months post-vaccine. This was done so the antibodies form. Tested one month after
the Covid vaccine, resulted in numerous antibodies formed. Extremely excited not to mention relieved!
The once again, BAM! Going back on Immunotherapy (remember my golden ticket to fight cancer),
wasn’t a real option. The Immunotherapy will cannibalize the vaccine antibodies. Therefore, my back to
traveling would have to cease and desist. So, in other words, Cathy, please pick your poison!
Chemo, which is usually the first line of defense in a maintenance program. Second generation Velcade,
Ninlaro, which is a protein inhibitor. Or take my chance and choose Darzalex again, full well knowing
that I will be at a huge risk for COVID again, with my half crappy immune system. Hmm, well the protein
inhibitor or the toxicity from the chemo is what caused my horrible neuropathy in my feet, now spread
to my hands. Neuropathy is incredibly debilitating, and life changing. Your feet spasm increases
stabbing sensations, and of course the favorite side affect is numb feet with pins and needles.
So, one week in and I am wishing my choices would be different. I’m thinking the following would be
better choices:
- Bourbon over Rye
- Vodka over Rum
- Champagne over Prosecco (“Dear Lord, don’t bring Prosecco to my house!”)
- White Burgundy over Sauvignon Blanc
- Cabernet Sauvignon over Pinot Noir
- Ferrari over Lamborghini
- Fiction over Non-fiction
- Pie over Cake
- Coffee over Tea
- Silver over Gold
Unfortunately, those who have this horrible disease do not get those fun choices. We must make
decisions based on the best outcomes in our health over what is easier or less painful. I wish things
were different. Perhaps when this darn pandemic surrenders, we can make more intuitive choices
with our healthcare. I am looking forward to that! I’ll keep you posted. Wish me luck! Hang in there
fellow warriors. Our time is coming!
Until then find something funny to share with those you love.
Best,
Cathy