It’s a foggy Friday morning. I’m sitting in a grey pleather recliner that matches my view of the city. There’s an IV dosing me with monoclonal antibodies that target HER2 proteins. Though I’m in remission, I’ll continue this treatment for a full year to reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence.
You’d think this could make for a bummer of a morning. Not so!
Firstly, this view! I’m so grateful to look outside while having my regular infusion. Earlier in my treatment, when I had 6-hour long chemotherapy infusions, I was always stuck in a hallway chair with a view of the wall- because it was one of the only chairs that could accommodate the “cold capping” I needed to do in hopes of maintaining my hair. My current infusion doesn’t cause hair loss, and is only 45 minutes long, every 3 weeks.
Secondly, my infusion nurse. I’ve had the same nurse for the last 4 infusions and she just brightens my day. It’s amazing how one person can make you feel so cared for in a system with so many patients.
Thirdly, I’m meeting a dear friend from high school afterwards for a walk and lunch. I can’t wait. She’s also been a huge support to me along the way with her knowledge of both genetics and the cancer landscape. With my first set of infusions- the hardcore chemo- I would have had to rush home and sleep. These residual infusions are a cinch in comparison.
And lastly- the countdown has begun! After today, I only have four more infusions until I complete my year of Herceptin (Trastuzumab). I can’t wait to ring that bell.
A foggy view but a sunny heart.