How has she been since the end of the CNS phase? Well, to put it lightly, poopy. Due to the numerous spinal taps, injected with a chemo called Methotrexate, and two other chemos called Vincristine and PEG-Asparaginase, they all cause a long list of side-effects. The most prodominent ones that Erika has been experiencing are neuropathy, swelling, headaches and nausea. Her hands would randomly cramp up, stiffen, curled in a position as if she is ready to cast a spell on me. As I duck from her cast, Doctors are watching it closely for it could be a sign of nerve end damage.
Nausea and headaches has been a continuous battle throughout the entire treatment from all the medications and chemo. The radiation to the cranium has increased them both. I also have noticed Erika has gotten angry lately...very easily. I want to blame the radiation, for maybe the gamma rays tapped into a spot where it gently awoken the "Hulk," like it did for Bruce Banner with his gamma ray incident. In reality, I'm sure it's just her dealing with this whole stupid mess of a blood disease no one ask for. It sucks when it's nice and beautiful outside and she has to stay in from it.
The past few days, since I have been sick with the stomach bug (don't worry, she didn't get anything from me) Erika has been showing signs of improvement from all of the above symptoms. Although, her energy level is the same. She is still extremely weak and tired. Walking in the house is a chore. She sleeps most of the time. I try to push her to do physical therapy at home to build back strength, but there is only so much she can do before she's gassed. Now she begins her new phase of chemo tomorrow. Therefore the battle continues.
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