Post-treatment Pre-Cruise Update

My treatment went off without a hitch yesterday, although my hemoglobin numbers were down. They wanted to give me a shot of Aranesp, which boosts your red blood counts and prevents anemia. Fortunately or not, they were unable to get approval from the insurance company before I left. I would like to do some research on this drug before agreeing to take it -- plus it's given by injection in the back of the arm, and you know how I feel about needles.

I spoke with the ENT and told him I have not noticed any difference in my cough since taking the Nexium. He informed me it could take up to 8 weeks to see a change. Yikes! His office called in a prescription to my pharmacy, which then called to inform me that the insurance company requires a pre-athorization (which may take up to 72 hours) and the doctor's office was closed (for a two hour lunch period!!!!). To make a long story short, we were able to pick up a free 10-day supply of Nexium from the ENT's office (located five minutes from the oncologist's office) so I'm set for our trip.

Discussed the "still coughing" routine with the oncologist who said he would write me a prescription for a cough supressant. Sounded like a great idea until I got to the pharmacy and found out it would cost me $118!!!!! The pharmacist tried to contact the oncologist to get a 15-day supply rather than a 30, but the office was closed. Since the pharmacist's assistant insisted that this medication would definitely stop my cough, I bought it. Well, I took a little less than the recommendated teaspoon dose and I can say that the dry cough has been eliminated but the wet cough continues. That is a plus, however, as it means a heck of a lot less hacking and throat clearing. Maybe after a few day's use the wet cough will be eliminated as well. I'll be sure to let you know. Now I can't wait to find out how much they are going to charge for the Nexium.

Does everyone agree that we need healthcare reform in this country????

Only one item left to add to the packing pile (other than a few toiletries). I plan to actually put the clothes in the suitcase Saturday morning since I'll have more energy and the clothes will spend less time getting themselves wrinkled. We are hoping for nice weather in Fort Lauderdale since we are planning to walk to dinner (the restaurant is about a 1/2 mile from the hotel). If not, we'll do it under an umbrella. Things are less of a big deal on vacation!

We are so looking forward to seeing our friends Lydia and Wilfredo in San Juan. Third times' a charm, right? Can't wait until Tuesday!

I also want to send out a "welcome home" to Lydia, Joe and the kids. They are on their way back from a week in Disney World and I can't wait to hear all about their trip. Hope you get home safely!!