Goodbye Bed Bugs

This is my break from packing. I have never been a fan and still don't like it, but in the past month I have become a champ. I definitely know what it feels like to live out of suitcases and bags now, but tonight has been a new challenge. What all am I going to need for two and a half weeks at home? Not only do I need to consider the usual clothes and bathroom items, but everything I could possibly need to keep up with each of my classes.

At one point, I was sitting on the floor arranging everything and just stared at my overflowing suitcase. It was then this all became so real. This past month I have been talking to so many people saying, "When I have treatment..." or "Not until the first part of February." But it's here. Tomorrow is Day 1. 

After taking my microbiology exam this afternoon, I officially said good-bye to campus until February 20th! That alone is a lot to take in. But I guess it's not a bad thing considering there has been a recent attack of bed bugs in the dorms and a couple fraternity houses. Every time I ride the bus or sit on a cushioned seat in classrooms, the thought of tiny, itchy bugs goes through my mind. So gross! 

I head to the medical center tomorrow morning for the first round of blood work and shots. I do that again on Thursday, but with the addition of a trial run of the treatment dose. It's not until Friday though, that I become radioactive after more blood work, a body scan, and the actual treatment dose. After that I head home for some quality "me" time, locked away in my room. I told the neighbors that if they see my lights flashing on and off that I have officially gone crazy and to quickly get help! 

I had to stop taking my thyroid medication on Saturday. To say I have been exhausted is an understatement. I keep falling asleep at the most random times. And even though the weather has been absolutely beautiful, I've had constant chills. The good part is I am used to all of this and it is only temporary. I have about a week left without medicine, and then I can hopefully start getting back on track! I woke up with a little bit of a sore throat today and panicked a little. I immediately begged my immune system to hold out just a little bit longer! And as dumb as it probably was, I tried to work out this afternoon. I did a few lifts and then jumped on the cardio machine. I lasted a whopping 15 minutes. I knew I shouldn't have gone, but I am way too stubborn (not surprising to any of you) to just not try. 

As for how I will feel post-treatment, it is different for every patient. With my past medical record of becoming easily nauseated, the doctor said there's a good chance I will struggle with feeling pretty sick for awhile. Also, I've suffered from terrible migraine headaches dating back to 4th grade. Because my hormones will be totally out of whack, I can probably expect to have a few of those too. The plan is to ask the doctor tomorrow if she can prescribe me shots that I can give myself if I do get one. Otherwise, I have not found one prescription medication that gives me results. The only relief I get is when I go see the chiropractor, which clearly isn't going to be possible these next couple of weeks. 

I was able to speak with the radiation specialist yesterday about specific questions I had regarding what all I need to do once I am back home. He gave me a little insight, but noted that I will go through a big ordeal on Friday with specifics based on the dose of radiation I receive. The higher the dose, the crazier things get. The one thing he did say to count on though was that starting at 11am on Friday, I will not be able to use my phone or laptop until Monday around noon. My family had planned on Skyping with me during those first few days when they can't have any contact with me whatsoever, but I think the plan now is to have a baby monitor set up in my room instead. That way if I need anything or if anything happens, someone will know.

I feel like everything is still so up in the air. But I took some time tonight to pray and relax during an hour of Eucharistic Adoration. Normally my mind is racing with hundred's of thoughts and things to get done, and it is hard to really enjoy just being there. Tonight was different though. I was able to sit and simply be at peace. There are many things I don't have an answer to, but that's alright. If I knew all of the answers, what would be fun about the adventure? I also prayed for all of you! I can't tell you enough how appreciative I am of the outpouring of love and support I have received. I am one very lucky girl. 

I plan on posting again on Thursday. From then until Monday, consider "no news, good news" as my mom would say. 

Sleep tight! Don't let the bed bugs bite ;)