"You were much easier to treat when you were 16."
So said my doctor when we were discussing options for my treatment during my last check-up. She was of the opinion that I need to go through the (Cytoxan) pulsing treatment again. I was the opinion that it should not interfere with my work schedule, if we really do need to do it. When I first went through pulse treatment in 1993-1994, I was only 15-16 years old, and so my mother easily committed me to the treatment. Now, I'm 33, working a high-tier role in an I.T. company, sole breadwinner for the family -- locking me down for a series of treatments meant checking my calendar, at a minimum.
Yes, it was much easier back then. The treatment was done in my doctor's office. We settled first for a much lower-priced medicine, Endoxan if I remember it correctly. I had nausea and gagged immediately after the treatment. We shifted to Cytoxan and it was all better. It was more expensive but there was less trouble after the sessions. I also got the hang of it. I knew I always had to hydrate myself the whole time, and it pays to have the I.V. drip water first for a considerable time before they put in the drug. It went on monthly for a year, then every three months, then every six months til the sessions were concluded.
To be very honest, I never thought I'd have to go through pulse treatments again. Anyway, it has to be done. Wish me luck.
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