I got my central line removed today, well, one of them. It was the “tri-fusion” that has three honking hoses sticking out of my chest. I’m so glad to have that one gone. The other central line is buried under my skin, a medi-port. It will come out some time next year according to the oncologist.

I’m recovering well overall, not having any complications. I don’t seem to see or feel much improvement from day to day like I did with chemo, but can certainly see an improvement today compared with when I came home.

The first week home, I was sleeping a lot, frequent naps, and on the couch resting. Now I’m slowly moving around, sitting at the computer, finding myself doing almost anything but couch time. I can finally detect some increased energy, just a tad. Hey, my hematocrit (measurement of anemia) is up to 29, I’m pumped! Normal is 40-50 (more or less) for men, so I’m gaining ground. I was 24-27 for the longest. Finally seeing improvement.

My immune system is starting to rev back up. I’m no longer neutropenic and my counts are climbing steadily.

I completed what I hope is my last MD appointment for this year. I’ve asked about getting this lump in my neck removed. It was where the tumor was at. It is supposedly nothing but scar tissue, but I would rather have it removed. My logic is that I’ve done all this extraordinary measures to live, no reason to leave even the smallest stone unturned.

I’ve lost 20+ lbs since all this began. That part is good overall. Still a poor appetite, but it is starting to come back. Going to try to be careful and keep losing weight. I’ve needed to lose weight anyways.

Merry Christmas everyone!