Mild Chemo

 Because Tony's been given so much chemo and radiation over the years he's had treatment, his organs have suffered some damage, particularly his heart. So when we started the transplant, his doctor let us know that the chemo would be milder than what he's used to. We weren't sure what to believe says symptoms are often hard to predict, but we've been pleasantly surprised. Today was day 3 of chemo. He's been very tired each day, and has slept for most of the day. But he hasn't had any other symptoms. Not even nausea. 

We've been staying this week at a place called the Hope Lodge. It's for people that are undergoing out patient treatment that live far from the hospital. It's been nice to stay close to the hospital. Tony's been enjoying eating at different little restaurants nearby. The first day, he had a delicious pad thai type dish at the Oasis Cafe. The next day he had Crown Burger, and yesterday he had a giant tempura shrimp and rice bowl at Yoshi's Japanese Grill. Most of the time, he has no appetite, but this chemo hasn't seemed to affect it. This is the most I've seen him enjoy food in months. 

At the Lodge, we're not allowed to have any food in the rooms. If you want food, you have to go downstairs to the community kitchen to make it and then eat it in the dining room. This morning, I tried to bake some almond croissants from Trader Joes. (One of Tony's favorite breakfasts. You let it rise overnight and then bake in the morning). After sitting in the kitchen for ten minutes waiting for the oven to preheat, I figured out it was still completely cold. I found out later this morning that that particular oven doesn't work. So I preheated a different oven, but we'll probably stick with microwavable meals from trader joes from now on. It's frustrating to cook in unfamiliar kitchens. 

We're going to be able to go home for one night tonight, and then we'll be back for his next chemo infusion at 11 in the morning. Then we'll stay at the hope lodge until Tony checks into the hospital on Monday.