A Little Rest is Good for the Body and Soul

Thank goodness for a long break from radiation. I keep in mind that the past two weeks were 4-days long with the holidays. Even so, they were just bearable with side effects that you don't want me to describe. I will say that I have a pain in the ass most of the time (Dorothy would say the same thing, but then she'd be talking about me). Dr. C, the radiation oncologist, gave me an extra 2 days without radiation -- making this weekend a 5-day break. The additional time allowed my body to heal some and my mind to heal more.

Since everyone deals with chemo and radiation indifferent ways, we must experiment to find what works. Here is what I am finding:

1. Lots of water -- I stepped up my water intake at the beginning of radiation, but I don't think that constituted drinking a LOT of water. Now, I drink much more and it seems to help my tissues stay hydrated.
2. A "regular" diet -- I talked about this before. Enough fiber to keep everything moist. Enough carbs and calories to keep me energized during the day.
3. Rest -- I can take a nap at any time. It amazes me how quickly I can fall into a deep sleep. I feel best when I am horizontal.
4. Sitz baths -- but not too hot. I think I was scalding myslef in the beginning, creating more distress than I was relieving.
5. Mineral oil -- to replace the natural lubrication that I seem to be missing. About 15 ml at night helps things work properly (thanks, Jeannie, for getting me to think about this).
6. Limited liftimg -- even weights over 5 pounds cause a strain and some untintended consequences. I'll get the kids to do the power lifting. 

Even with all the precautions listed above, life is no picnic. But it is bearable. I have another 2 weeks of chemo and radiation, then I get to heal for 5-6 weeks before Dr. S operates. I should start feeling better during that time.

Thanks for all your kind words and thoughts dear friends, family, and neighbors. Dorothy is doing okay this week -- it is an "off-chemo" week for her. Keep up the good wishes.