Following is an email update from a family friend.
Hi all--
Nadine checked in on Tuesday, May 23 to start her first (of six, I think) rounds of chemo. Today is day 4 of the process and I'm sure you are anxious for an update. The procedure for Nadine's chemo is to start her on anti-nausea drug, followed by a "rescue" drug that is designed to protect her bladder and remaining kidney from the harsh effects of chemo. After those drugs are in her system they start her on her chemo which, depending on the day, is a mix of 2 or 3 drugs (all of which have really long names). She repeats this process for 5 days in a row and then waits for the chemo to kill the fast growing cancer cells. Unfortunately it kills off good things too so she'll lose her hair in 2-3 weeks. She will then need to regain strength and her white blood count before beginning the process all over again.
Nadine has been rather sick and has not tolerated the chemo all that well. At first the anti-nausea drug made her 'floppy' and she couldn't control her body at all. They have increased her dose to a level that makes her very sleepy...the next step will be to find the right level that will keep her feeling well AND able to interact a bit more. Momma & Dad are taking turns with the night shift and hanging in there. Reality sets in a bit more everyday...today it was the news that there is a chance that Nadine may be in the hospital for weeks on end depending on her reaction to the chemo and side effects. Nadine will hopefully get out of the hospital on Sunday or Monday...I'll keep you posted.
BUT Nadine has, and will continue, to amaze us and today is no exception... I just got off the phone with Momma who reports that Nadine has tolerated chemo extremely well today, hasn't had her anti-nausea drug since around 10 a.m., drank some ginger ale and ate one dorito (all of which stayed DOWN!), and is in a feisty mood! She also had beautiful finger and toe nails, and darling PJs, an amazing daddy who is keeping her entertained with magic tricks and making balloon animals, and an amazing momma who is giving her loving but also making
her remember her manners!
Remember to keep those cards, phone calls, and prayers a coming...
Nadine
c/o Miss Rodeo Montana 2006
PO Box 6951
Helena MT 59604
3 comments:
Now I'm all weepy. Thank you for sharing this.
And thank you for being you.
I`m in awe of her parents.
I have trouble making myself prompt my perfectly healthy kids to remember their manners -- I think if one of my kids were that ill, I would degenerate into a hollering redneck.
I've got a card for Nadine, stamped and ready to go in today's mail.
Thanks for the update.
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