Fast forward to a place that allows me to end this long, painful thread with sincere words of encouragement…
I’ve lost track of how many times I almost gave up, but I am so glad that I didn’t succumb to despair.
And I am glad I trusted my doctors.
Although it took some time, the Acalabrutinib (Calquence) started working.
After a week or so, the headaches stopped of their own accord.
Weeks later, I no longer needed the anti-nausea meds.
I eventually weaned myself off the opioids (at least temporarily).
It took months, but those deeply buried lymph nodes shrunk significantly.
It took months, but my leg returned to normal size.
It took seven months, but I eventually had those effing Neph tubes removed.
And here I am today—two and half years later and counting—my CLL being treated quite successfully. Some loss of kidney function, some loss of strength and energy, but able to be more than just a cancer patient—able to live with joy and purpose–and with a quality of life that made it all worth fighting for.
Sheesh. What a rough time. I think it’s good you’re writing this. From my vantage point someone gets cancer, they get treated, and hopefully they get better. The look behind the curtain is grisly. I think that part is mostly swept under the rug. Glad for the education.
Thank you, Jeff, for the uncommon honesty and empathy. Your words are the validation and encouragement I needed at this moment to keep telling my story, no matter how painful, so that others might understand. I count myself among the fortunate few who has the time, energy, and means–and therefore the responsibility–to do so. Thank you, yet again, for having the courage to walk with me for a while.