Royal Flush

Last night my post-chemo body cleanse unfolded. It seems to be part of the pattern. Several days after chemo, I go through a night of massive neuropathy. Last night my legs were numb and tingling up to my knees. The bottoms of my feet were on fire. I don't always get the neuropathy in my hands, but last night, it ranged from my fingertips clear up to my elbows. My body aches, especially the joints, and sleep is out of the question.

As well, my body finally lets go of fluids. Every half hour, a trip to the bathroom to pee. All that water I consumed for the kidneystone flush finally exited! I lost a documented 5 or 6 pounds just in water weight. It is as if my body has been swollen in key places, preventing functionality. Then the chemo takes the swelling down and my systems go into overdrive to rid the toxins before the next shut down. My glands are swollen and tender though, especially under my arms.


After each bathroom trip, it takes me long minutes of adjusting pillows and sheets and blankets to get comfortable enough to rest, even though I know I will not sleep. Sugar is solicitous of my well being, gently standing at the far end of the mattress until she is sure I am settled, then gingerly lying down out of the way.

After awhile, my routine becomes silly. I giggle. Then I laugh at myself. Then I cry. Stop. Don't stop. Oh, just get on with it already. I am worn out, but happy that the cleanse is happening. It means I will feel better in a day or so. Maybe I can begin the long road back to stasis. One good thing about tonight. At least Drew is staying with friends at RIT and won't be bothered by all my trotting back and forth and flopping about.