Cycle five, day one: Rituxan

Yesterday was my day for Rituxan. As usual on a Monday, there was a long wait for treatment. We opted to wait in the lobby instead of the crowded waiting room, where there was a children's choir from a local school singing. They had a lovely sound rising to the roof of the hospital atrium, and made the long wait easier.

The infusion takes three hours and I asked for a room with a bed, as the Benadryl the nurse gives me for side effects always makes me dizzy and sleepy. It's a long time to spend sitting up in a chair if I can't get a room with a bed, although the chairs do recline. However, the bed is much more comfortable and I can lie on my side or my back. I can get very comfy with the head of the bed slightly elevated and a blanket to keep me warm. The nurse complained about the room being very hot but I loved it as Rituxan always gives me chills.

Other than developing a sore throat from the Rituxan, and some stomach upset, my day was OK. Barry brought us a take out lunch from the cafeteria, and I had cream of mushroom soup and a turkey wrap. We were done by 3pm and on our way home.

All in all, it was the best day I have had on Rituxan to date. If one has to be on chemo, a day with few side effects can be a good day.