Second round of chemo done – surrounded by friends

I had my second round of chemo yesterday – a changed dose, and a week extra break between doses. They have removed one drug entirely. I’m still nervous, but hopeful.

Earlier this month, I wrote that I had a very severe reaction to the first round of chemo – my skin in particular. My skin shed in large pieces. All my energy was used up having a shower and walking back to bed. It was the most severe pain I’ve ever had, lasting for more than a week, and the oncologists had never seen a case like mine before.

I’m grateful the oncologists have listened to me and took such swift action in getting me stronger painkillers, access to an occupational therapist, and worked with my dermatologists on a new path. And I’m grateful they’ve also talked about options if this dose of chemo doesn’t work. Care at the Peter Mac – along with the Royal Melbourne and Royal Women’s hospitals – has been impeccable. I’m very lucky.

My Mum has been coming to Melbourne a lot lately. She had a break this round, and so I had four friends come to support me. Danielle, Sandy,, Jodee and Natalia. They held my hand while I had needles (I’m doing much better with my needle phobia), brought me snacks and gifts, and made me laugh. I am so lucky to have such a beautiful circle of friends looking after me. I love them. And I love the support that my followers have given me. Thank you.

Last week I wrote on my socials that I am having difficulty accessing the Centrelink system, and I’m working significantly less hours and earning much less due to the cancer and the impact chemo has had on me. If you want and are able to, I have a PayPal that you can donate to – money will go to living expenses. Thank you – and no pressure. There’s a link here – it’s paypal.me/CarlyFindlay

Images: 1. Carly in the treatment ward, surrounded by Danielle, Sandy and Jodee. 2. Sandy and Carly. 3. Danielle and Carly. 4. Natalia and Carly. 5. Carly in the treatment chair – wearing bright clothes, a blue hat by Anita, Hello Kitty brooches, and a colourful crocheted blanket by Friday. A towel covers her cannula.

The post Second round of chemo done – surrounded by friends first appeared on Carly Findlay.