The radiation department was closed last Friday and this Monday for upgrading their computer. Gus actually had four days of no treatment. I would like to report that he felt great and thoroughly enjoyed it, but that is not the case. Saturday we had a full day of vaccinating the calves and Gus was not able to participate or even watch. He slept as much as possible. He did join us for moving the cows back to their pasture in the evening. Gus drove Scott's truck and horse trailer. For the first time I can remember, we were moving cows in the dark with only the full moon to help us.
Sunday we did get Gus onto the golf course for 9 holes. Lane, Scott and April joined us. Gus even birdied one hole and ended up with his best score yet for that course. His score would have been better, but his chemo pump went off during his back swing one time and let's just say it wasn't one of his best shots. It is a 3 par golf course which welcomes the grandfather and his 4 year old grandson, so that is where we choose to go. It was a beautiful evening and Gus enjoyed himself, especially when Lane did so well on the driving range. Gus did get sick after we left the golf course, so we knew he had tried to do too much. For Gus to accomplish anything during this treatment time is strictly on his willpower and the refusal to quit. We were told by the surgeon in Seattle that the radiation would get him down, but until you experience it, you always hope they are exaggerating. The surgeon was not. He has 15 radiation treatments left so his last one should be October 6th. That will be a day of celebration.
The skin on Gus' arms, hands and the top of his head is reacting to the chemo. The skin has angry-looking red patches that are tender to the touch. The doctors are perplexed because that is not one of the side effects of this particular chemo. If anything it should be affecting the palms of his hands and the soles of his feet. It is nothing serious, just another irritant to deal with.
The weather is beautiful and the second cutting of horse hay is getting put up with no rain. That is quite the feat this time of year. Dave was too busy haying to go golfing yesterday. We appreciate him so much. Hopefully by the end of the week, the haying is over.
No comments:
Post a Comment