Looking ahead

I feel the best I have felt for a while and really believe I'm turning the corner now. While round 2 of Chemotherapy looms ominously ahead, it's important to enjoy this window of feeling better. It's now 27 days since I was admitted.

On the 2nd of February my Partner visited and I was so exhausted, I fell asleep while she was talking to me. Thankfully, she was still there when I woke up! I went through a spell when I was having about 2 hours sleep a day, so that's my excuse.

I slept really well going in to the 3rd of February. As I got up in the morning I felt a bit unsteady on my feet. I didn't think anything of it and carried on into the shower. The next thing I knew Bam! I'd hit the deck, managing to bang my head on the wall on the way down.

Thankfully, the subsequent CT scan was all clear but I now have a grazed face to add to my collection of ailments.

When the Doctors saw me that day they explained I was experiencing ATRA syndrome. This can cause high temperatures and fluid retention, among other things. They decided to hold back on the ATRA tablets for a while.

My Cousin visited me that evening a brought me some supplies. He's also brought a card from Clowne Roads Runners, wishing me well. I'm determined to get that red and white vest back on some day.

This photo is from the Elmton Chase. It's a 5 mile trail run and it happened to be 27c on the day. The beer after went down a treat. Ironically, I'm now on the Elmton Ward trying to outrun Cyril!

I was meant to be running the Bolsover 10km this weekend. It seems unlikely.

That evening I got a message from one of my MMA training buddies. Attached to it was a message of support from Brian Deane! I couldn't believe it. I idolised "Deano" growing up and here he was telling me to stay strong and keep fighting. Blew me away.

Progress continued to be made on the 4th of February. I had a heart scan with and other tests.

I had a reasonable night's sleep going into the 5th. Thankfully, they'd administered the drug that helps with fluid retention (and makes you pee loads) during the day. Good job as apparently I've been carrying 10kg of water weight!

I've been moving about a bit more and got one those Desk Cycles from the physio. I've got it positioned just right, by the window so I can people watch. Managed 25 minutes.

I then had a surprise visit from some more martial artists. They brought me some supplies. I told them the whole story and then we chatted about normal stuff and had a laugh.

I take my Daughter to the same place I train and I know she'll be missed at Little Ninjas.