Al just had his first visit with the therapist regarding his lymphadema. They want to treat him with message therapy over the next 3-4 weeks. He'll have to go 3 days a week and she advised him to take some pictures so that we can see the improvement. She explained that the radiation blocks some of drainage points. That will be great if they can help get rid of some of that swelling around his neck, especially since he is otherwise looking so slim!
We also saw the ENT doctor yesterday. Somehow we forgot that appointment last week. It was bound to happen with so many appointments. He said everything looks good and he will be now monitoring him every 2-3 months.
Al also saw the medical oncologist a few days ago and he doesn't have to go back for another 6 weeks. His test results show that he is still anemic, but the numbers did come up a little bit. He is still a good 4 points below what is considered normal. He is often cold, but his energy level is very good. They said his creatinine went up, which is not good for his kidneys. We're anxious to hear what the specialist says. That is the next appointment this month.
All and all, we are back into our old routine. It has been so nice to share meals together again. Al seems to be enjoying cooking on the grill. He is eating everything. His taste buds aren't completely back and his mouth and tongue still get irritated, but it's so much better.
I still have a hard time relaxing and often feel anxious and worried. We know that this could come back, so it's hard not to worry. I still have strange dreams. The other night, I dreamt that Al fell from a 2nd floor. I approached him while he was leaning on this railing and he said he was fine. Next thing, he fell and landed on his back. He said he only suffered minor injuries. It was weird. The other dream I have now had several times is of finding him smoking at some social event. I always grab the cigarette out of his hand, smash it and start screaming at everyone around us not to give him those because he just went through treatment for cancer.
Well, that is the latest update.