Thursday, July 29, 2010

Fancy Photo, by Matt, during my chemo session




Look at those chipmunk cheeks! Give 'em a squeeze ;) It's a common side effect of the steroids that I take. I can't wait to get off of them! I eat like a bear and I have a temper often like one too.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Hot Flashes and Costa Rica

Hello All,

So, I decided to start a blog. I'm not sure if anyone will read it, but I though it was a great way to stay in touch.

As you all know I have just been diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Nephritis. I won't get into the details, as a lot of you have the internet (http://tinyurl.com/2afpxxu) or me to ask! I really want this blog to be about my journey and my experiences; not just boring medical information.

Okay, so we will start with my brief Lupus update:Today was my first day of chemotherapy/cytoxan (http://tinyurl.com/2ej7l8b) treatment. A lot of folks were surprised that I needed this sort of "cancer" treatment. Chemotherapy is used for many different diseases, particulary I need it for my kidney failure. It went well. I felt pretty exhausted and out of it. But all together-just fine. Next, I am recieving what's called "Lupron", it's a shot. I get to start a temporary Menopause! Yeah! :) This temporary menopause will protect my ovaries during my cytoxan treatment. Yes Yes, this means no periods (awesome!), hot flashes, and hormonal craziness! I will be doing hormonal replacement next year. It feels weird. But all of this will keep my ol' ovaries safe and able to get pregnant in the near future.

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Now, exciting stuff! Matt(my love) and I will be embarking on our Costa Rica Adventure approximately 3am August 1st 2010. I have not had a real vacation in years. I have been sick for every vacation time since August of last year. I cannot explain how much I am looking forward to the sweet release of the stress and just love my environment. No law school, no phones, no computers, no Toledo! The last time I really felt this release was with Marita in our Eastern Europe Adventures.

Well, I do not want my first blog to be forever long. I will be adding photos, a better background real soon. Please feel free to make suggestions, comment. I am sending you this link because I care about you. I care what you have say. I hope it will give some an opportunity to re-connect.

Till then!

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