29 Jan 2021

My last day of being in my 50s! Can't say I really enjoyed the whole decade, but can say I made it through.  I'll take the good with the not so good.  

Didn't have a good night with this port installed.  Uncomfortable and heavy.  I woke up before my 0530 alarm with some anxiety toward today's UAB appointment. Only had a light breakfast and was off in the cold morning.  

Arrived at UAB around 0930 after finding parking on the third deck.  I had Dawn turn into the wrong garage at first and created another friction point (wasn't my day).  Lab was quick and then on to the oncology appointment.

Finally met my doctor.  I do like him as he explained future treatment as well as potential side effects (death being included in addition to being really cold and neuropathy).  At this point, I became nauseous while trying to listen.  Hope Dawn took copious notes as I checked out mentally.   

Chemo starts in a week on 5 Feb and involves 4-6 hours at UAB followed by some sort of pump (this makes me nervous).  The first day should be fine, but day 2-5 may not be so good.  The thoughts that if my temp reaches 100.4 or have chest pains that I'm to call UAB Oncology within an hour or go to the local ER is unnerving! I'm beginning to wonder if all this is really worth it. I am apprehensive about the whole treatment. The reality is that there are no guarantees.

After spending a taxing day at UAB, I came home tired and worn out.  As I captured my notes for the day, the dogs became unusually excited as the garage door opened. Then this women that I had not seen in 5+ years (except for a Duo calls) appeared.  It was my daughter, Jennifer! I really needed to see her considering everything.  It was the most wonderful reunion a father can ask for.  Added that I had lunch with Matthew, I thought I might get to see Zachary. But he had a major exam in Miami and that is important in my book.  

Key West can wait ... paradise is at home with family for me.  

Just me and the dogs for now.  Fighting a headache.  Everyone is out getting groceries and back later. Matthew should be coming over soon.  

On the pool front, the gas heater was to be hooked up this afternoon. No actions taken.  It's ok.  

The day closes with Jennifer and Matthew here watching TV.