Cancer Update – Part 8

28 May 2023

I cheated by two hours. I was told I could remove the bandage over the port incision after 3 days. It also meant I could take a shower! I have to admit the bath wipes did an excellent job of making me feel clean but it’s hard to beat a shower. I can wash the area with soap and water but must pat dry the area around the incision.

I still have the steristrips attached and I have to leave them on until they fall off on their own accord. There are three or four internal stitches but they dissolve in a couple of weeks. The redness you see is the antiseptic they wipe you down with prior to surgery. Actually, they wiped me down twice. Once and then let it dry and then a second time and let that dry. It didn’t come off in the shower and I suspect it’ll take quite a few more showers to get rid of the stain. By then I”ll probably have been through my first infusion.

The site is still tender and sore but with the bandage off, there’s less pull and push on the area. They say to put another bandage on if it begins to seep but so far, it’s be OK.

Who knew that in short order I would have a breast biopsy and port implant. Things can certainly change quickly in life.

Today was the first day I’ve driven the jeep. I headed to Whole Foods for some weekly grocery shopping. I was not allowed to drive for the first 24 hours but I was still in a brain fog for a few days after and I really didn’t need to go anywhere, anyway, so I stayed home.

Tonight is hamburgers with John, Joel and Keith. I should be able to get them grilled in between rain storms. It’s pretty much rained every day this week and sometimes accompanied by pretty severe lightning.

As of now, I’ve received two checks from my flood insurance. Now all I need is the contractor to show up to do the work. Fingers crossed!

Stay tuned!