New feeling, old ailments and new ducks.

Here we are a week after my last post.

In general, the week was a good one. I have worn red shirts each day. I kind of hope to wear one each day for the rest of my life.

Tennis, bridge, work and a few days away have filled the seven days. It feels good. The contrast with many months of chemo makes it feel especially good even if there are ailments

Ailments? Yep. There are four.

The shingles nerve pain is still present. The painkillers are helping some. I will be glad when it goes away.  The level ranges from 3 to about a 6.

I also continue to have neuropathy, particularly in my fingers. Have you ever taken five minutes to open one of those plastic bags at the grocery store for fruit and vegetables. I have because of the neuropathy. Similar experiences can be found in press seal bags and opening my Imodium tablets.

Related to the neuropathy is a continuing (if not increasing) sensitivity to cold. I find rooms cold that others find warm. Air conditioning and freezers in grocery stores drive me crazy, just walking near them.

The final continuing issue is my bowels. It is all very unpredictable. I am reminded of that classic book that we discussed in junior high: Race to the Outhouse by Willy Makit. Sadly, once in a while the sequel comes to mind: the same title, but written by Betty Wont.

I understand that these side effects will improve over time. How much time? Who knows.

On the positive side, I am happy to report that Aflac has friends. We got another order of Epsom salts and with it, a yellow ducky. I have chosen to call it Tape. (Figure that one out.)  In addition, I have two other ducks with the research manager's and my names on them that I got at a small celebratory dinner. The ducks were used as place cards.

And so, I now soak with a flotilla of ducks. I wonder if they have the same reproductive tendencies as rabbits?

The ducks seem to appreciate the Soundscape music that I listen to during soaks,.

Over the next week, we expect to be adding Essiac tea, Hydrogen water, far infrared sauna treatment and CBD oil. If my bowels ever behave, we will start a 30 day detox program. I will report on all this next week.

I bet that you are looking forward to that!