March 16, 2023, marked the initiation of my second round of treatment—a familiar terrain, yet each step forward brought its nuances. The protocol mirrored Round 1, but with a notable adjustment: the Rituximab infusion on Day 1 was at a standard rate, a testament to successfully weathering the initial round. Pre-treatment rituals persisted, with the reassuring cocktails and a vigilant eye on Rituximab’s first 15 minutes.
The Bendamustine dance followed the familiar 10-15 minute rhythm, maintaining consistency in the approach that had proven effective in the preceding round.
A distinctive aspect of Day 1 in this cycle involved the exchange of the unused study drug, accompanied by a replenishment from Jessica, my dedicated study coordinator. Concurrently, I submitted my meticulous pill and side effects log, a crucial component mandated by the clinical study.
The log, a daily companion, meticulously documented the precise times of each study drug intake. Despite setting alarms, life’s interruptions occasionally led to acknowledging the alert without immediate consumption. Per study regulations, a missed dose couldn’t be compensated by doubling up, necessitating a note in the log and a subsequent omission. The one instance of oversight prompted a shift to a daily pill box, ensuring a visual cue for the crucial regimen.
Moving to Day 2 on March 17th, aligning closely with my birthday, Noreen, my exceptional chemo nurse, injected a delightful note of celebration into my treatment room. It’s moments like these that underscore the compassionate care at Carbone, making the journey not just medically effective but imbued with warmth. Noreen and the entire team at One South Park exemplify unwavering support, transforming treatment spaces into havens of encouragement. Here’s to embracing the next steps, marked by the familiar faces that make each round a testament to resilience and shared humanity.