Tonight they are adding a third drug to the mix -- Busulfan. It's the most toxic, scorched-earth-type chemo I've had to date. I get one dose every six hours for eight doses, on top of the nightly Fludarabine and daily Rabbit food. How am I even still walking around? Definitely I'm finding it tough to concentrate, doing things like reading the same paragraph over and over. Early this evening, I also started getting the jitters. But I was still able to go 20 laps around the floor (walking, with my trusty trolley in tow) and take my regimented two daily showers (apparently, Rabbit food seeps through your skin and can make you itch).
Ian's been really great at taking care of me, too ... Doing things like bringing me Banana Creme Tart and Ham Quiche from Tartine, bringing me the shampoo and conditioner I forgot and, of course, bringing the boy. And, of course, getting the boy to blow me good night kisses from the backyard, across the ocean, through the city to my hospital window. Smack!
--Katie
Comments (8)
Dear Ian,
I just want to take the time to thank you for taking such goo d care of Katie and being so supportive at this time. Please remember to take care of yourself also becasue this is a stressful for you, too.
I also want to thank your parents for all that they have done and what they continue to do. They seem like pretty neat people. I so understand why they like Katie, she's a great kid!!
Well, a big thank you and hug from me here in Oklahoma.
Love,
Barb
Posted by Mom | June 13, 2008 3:19 PM
Posted on June 13, 2008 15:19
Dear Zach,
I love the picture of you blowing your mom a kiss across the ocean to the hospital-good job.
Hugs and kisses to you from here in Oklahoma.
love,
Grandma Barb
Posted by Mom | June 13, 2008 3:34 PM
Posted on June 13, 2008 15:34
katie-
hi!! i am so sorry that it has been so long since we've been in touch. ryan forwarded me the news and the link to your blog. my thoughts are with you in a big way...i always admired your strength and fire, and i hope that gives your sails some wind through all of this. i know it must be so difficult, but if anyone can beat this it's you! ian, it's so great to hear what a great husband you are, and your son is adorable! he must really make you smile when you need that most...
anyway, here are big kisses and well wishes, and i'll be sure to check back regularly to see how things are going...
warmest thoughts,
rachel
Posted by rachel fredholm | June 13, 2008 6:36 PM
Posted on June 13, 2008 18:36
Katie! Ian! Zach!
I haven't talked to you guys in years, but Ryan forwarded me your blog and I just wanted to tell you that I am totally going to be carrying y'all around in my heart.
Big love,
Liz Schiffrin
Posted by Elizabeth Schiffrin | June 13, 2008 7:13 PM
Posted on June 13, 2008 19:13
Wow, Katie, you are so amazing! So courageous and optimistic! I love your spirit.
And Ian, you are the BEST husband and Dad ever!! Your love for Katie and Zach is awesome! And my prayers and support are with you too! Katie is so blessed to have you as her husband and caregiver. I also send my love and heart to your parents. What a tremendous support team Katie has.
Katie, you just keep that good positive outlook! I KNOW you will make it through and have a tremendous story of success and praise to share with all of us!
Love,
Jean
Posted by Jean G. Barnes | June 13, 2008 8:45 PM
Posted on June 13, 2008 20:45
Katie,
Who knew that chemo drugs can make you dream about turkeys, paraffin wax and Chaucer!
Our thoughts are with you, Ian and Zach.
Love,
Kaye, Steve and Ellis
Posted by Kaye | June 14, 2008 7:11 AM
Posted on June 14, 2008 07:11
Hi Katie, we're blowing kisses your way too! All the best and hang in there kiddo...
Posted by Adam | June 14, 2008 11:26 AM
Posted on June 14, 2008 11:26
Katie,
Believe it or not, this is the first time I've written and navigated a blog! Boy, do I feel like an old fart! Zach is getting so big. What a doll. Between you and Peter, I have the most gorgeous grand-nieces and nephew. Hadn't thought about your being in the same hospital as your dad. Along with the drugs, bringing back those memories doesn't ease the pain. I really do think of you often, despite my being a terrible correspondent. Will show Grandma the pictures of you and Zach and read her your posts when she comes over today. Love and hugs to you, Zach, and Ian.
Aunt Kathy
Posted by Aunt Kathy | June 14, 2008 11:44 AM
Posted on June 14, 2008 11:44