Induction

Chemo began today at about 6pm. First is Idarubicin, seen here in this tube, which you get in an IV and it takes about an hour to go in. (Despite the fact that I photographed a tube, I promise I won't post lots of unappealing pictures of medical equipment. Although, Will shot an exciting one minute movie of the toilet flushing.) Two nurses must bring the bag to the room and double check the patient's name and id number before they hook it up to the IV pump. It's like those dudes in missle silos who have to synchronize turning their keys - but in a bag. You don't feel anything in particular. You get that once per day for three days. She also started Cytarabine which is given in a 24hr drip for seven days. The other three weeks (at least) in the hospital are really about recovering from the first week! Day ten is the lowest spot; your white blood count is very low, you feel bad, and visitors are very restricted. Day 18, you are much better. Drugs are available for just about any side effect. Rosina is smiling and is strong.

I got more info on giving blood specifically for her. There will be a "blood order" in the donation facility at Cedars that needsto have your name on it. So, if inclined, let us know and we'll get your name on that list. then you call them for an appointment.
Also, people have asked how to leave a comment on the blog. Click on "comments" at the bottom of a post and a new window will open. You don't need to register with blogspot, you can just choose "anonymous", write in the box, and add your name at the bottom of your comment. Then click on "publilsh"


A freezing New Year's Day swim, 2006.


Thanks, everybody, xo ph