Third week of treatment

We are now into week 3 of Aly's treatment plan.  This first phase of treatment is referred to as the "Induction" period where she receives chemo 1-2 times a week for a 5 week period.  So far Aly has 2 blood transfusions and 1 platelette transfusion and has experience no reactions or side effects to any of them.  Each week we visit the Cancer Centre at KGH for blood work then return later in the week for her chemo treatment.  Blood transfusions may be common for Aly and will be given to her when her blood levels are low.  This week her hemoglobin was low and the blood tranfusion was required to increase her red blood cells.  Throughout the chemo treatments Aly also takes a steriod called dexamethasone, twice a day to counteract certain side effects that she may face during treatment.  This steroid causes her to be quite moody ( that is an understatement) and increases her appetite.  Throughout the day she DEMANDS very specific foods and it seems that she is constantly eating througout the day.  Some of her recent cravings are; chicken and rice, fried egg sandwiches with cheese, strawberries, cucumbers & tomatoes with ranch dressing and white milk..... luckily these are all quite healthy.  She isn't always willing to take her steriod( which is taken orally via a syringe) so we have had recent success with putting in her milk and so far it is working!!

We head back to the cancer clinic tomorrow for a quick round of chemo - - the visit should last less than an hour.