On Monday I went in for the first of 8 chemo "cycles" I'll be doing. These will be happening at 2 week intervals, so the whole course runs approximately 4 months. It's done intravenously through a "port" which was surgically implanted in my chest a couple of inches down from my collar bone. It sits just under the skin and delivers my chemo "cocktail" called "Folfox" into my jugular vein. The cocktail consists of 3 different chemical agents. Their purpose is to attack any rogue micro tumors that may still be in my system. Today is Thursday and I'm happy to say that I was mostly unfazed by this round. There has been a little bit of neuropathy (a tingling sensation which can also include numbness) in my gums when drinking or eating cold things, but it's nothing major, and I have ordered an amino acid powder called "glutamine" which is supposed to help with it.
I've realized over the last few days that I'm about halfway through all of this. I can't say it has flown by, but it hasn't felt like an eternity either. Onward and upward, and again thanks to all my dear family, friends, and Foreigner fans that have been so supportive and thoughtful throughout this!
Sending huge waves of white/blue healing vibes to you sweetie!
ReplyDeletethat's good. I hope it doesn't get any worse (the neuropathy). That was one of the things my Mom complained about most, the pain in her finger tips. Hang in there buddy, your almost done with this cancer nonsense.
ReplyDeleteStay strong, great to see you have so much support.
ReplyDeleteFollowing your journey and cheering for you Michael. Was listening to your playing on the first Bobby Sharp CD we did together, Bobby said, "Who was that" and I filled him in. He remembers you- beautiful playing. He's going to be 88 in November!
ReplyDeleteGreat headline, Michael. Always able to pull some humor out of a situation you are never down for the count. Love, mom
ReplyDeleteIt's been a long, long time since you've posted... Hope you're past the chemo halfway point and managing the side effects. That peripheral neuropathy must be the worst, especially for a musician. Best wishes for a full & speedy recovery, from a fan who will miss you on RLCII.
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