Wondering how everyone is - Lymphomas Message Board

singer78 · 08-19-2008, 11:03 PM

Hi All,
Thought I'd give you an update.
I had bloodwork done yesterday. They're constantly monitoring my iron levels. Apparently, my red blood cells are down a bit---so, I still take Repliva.
From the radiation, I still have a bit of pneumonitis, although it's lessening all the time. I'm still using my Combivent inhaler.
I found out I have the beginning of osteoporosis (sigh), so I start Fosamex this week, along with calcium faithfully. I found that out from my bone density test a few weeks back.
As far as my gallstone problem, my Onc wants to "leave it alone" for now.
I think he wants my immune system to get a little stronger. I agree.
Anyway--my appt. went great yesterday. I was told I could start exercising and taking everything a step further...
So, I was celebrating (somewhat) ....wouldn't you know, within 2 hours I got a scratchy throat? Within 4 hours, I knew it was not a "singing" throat problem....it was a full-blown head cold.
So, here I am---on a Z-pack with a super scratchy throat...but, maybe it will make my immune system stronger. Think? I'm hoping it's just a little "cold."...
I had so many plans this week and next, before I go back "out on the road."
It's been wonderful, resuming my schedule somewhat.
The only difference, is my energy levels. They're not back yet.
It's going to take time, especially with my iron levels still a bit low.

Soooo....
It's been awhile since I talked to my buddies on here....
Any new buddies are welcome, too....
Amanda, specifically....hope you're doing well.
I was surprised to see they've already set me up for another CT scan (the barium-drinking one) in October.
I think they do scans at a different pace in the UK, ...correct?
I'm glad they're being thorough, but, it I think it will always be nerve-wracking.
Hope all is well with my friends here.
Just wanted to say "hi," and touch base.

Later...Life is good.
The best of luck to anyone going through chemo & radiation for lymphoma.
I'm here to tell you....you can do it. It's not easy, ...but, you can do it!
xxxx, S.

Bofonic · 08-28-2008, 03:51 PM

Hey Singer..sorry to hear about the head cold! That sucks

But hopefully you're still on the way up

School starts for me soon. I get to do some serious recording this year for school yay!

singer78 · 08-28-2008, 08:24 PM

So nice to hear from you!

My head cold is basically gone, although it seems like it played havoc with my immune system somewhat. I got that "achy" feeling back again...but, it's slowly subsiding.

Good. I'm glad you'll get to record this year.
My hubby took an online course at Berklee for recording, and loved it.
It's amazing, the new technology that's out there.

Hope your health is good, and, yes, I'm "hanging in there."

Singer

Bofonic · 08-30-2008, 12:23 PM

Good to hear that makes me happy

Keep on smiling and be thankful for everyday Singer. It gets better and better.

singer78 · 09-15-2008, 05:21 PM

Hi.
Just thought I'd "bump this up," and say "Hello," again.

I think I finally rounded the "mark...."

I went for about 2 weeks (was out-of-town performing) without so many pain pills!

Of course, I'm still on my "maintenance" drugs of Prilosec, iron, etc.... BUT, I didn't need nearly as many pain med's for that "fatigue" feeling that would NOT go away.
So,....it DOES get better.

I have my next scan the end of October and, of course, port-flushings, along the way.
I'm praying I can have my port removed next year. "They" want me to keep it in, for the first full year (after treatment). I'm told some people keep them in for 2 years. I've been lucky, in that it's hardly noticeable, and I can even wear skinny strapped tops, and no one notices. I do have some scars, though, from my node removal....that's my "badge of honor," I suppose.

Just wanted to touch base and see if some my pals (new & old) are around.

Life is beginning to look and feel better and better.
I was wondering, there for awhile, if I'd ever feel normal again.

How's everyone?
Looks like we have some new faces here.
I'll try to respond, if I have anything to add....

later....S.