Preparations
It feels like we're at the top of a rollercoaster right now. The last few weeks of Nick's diagnostics, biopsies, surgeries, and second opinions have led up to tomorrow's first day of treatment. It sounds like everyone reacts to chemotherapy differently, so we're not sure exactly what to expect. Though, we are trying to prepare as much as possible this weekend. Below is a list of what we're doing to prepare for Nick’s twelve weeks of chemotherapy treatments.
Sharing the schedule. We’re using a Google Calendar that we can share digitally and also print for the family and close friends who will be supporting Nick through this process. As much as possible, we are trying to anticipate what Nick might need.
Keeping it clean. We are having our house cleaned every other week. Nick’s immune system will be compromised over the next few months, so keeping the house neat and sanitized will be particularly important.
Caring for Leo the Dog. Our Irishdoodle, Leo, has a lot of energy and requires daily walks as well as a weekly trip to Doggie Daycare on Thursdays. We're looking for volunteer dog walkers at least a couple times a week.
Calling our health insurance provider. We called our health insurance provider and discussed our benefits plan to ensure that we know what we're in for financially. While the treatments will be an expense, we have excellent health insurance that will cover a majority of the treatments to come. This has reduced our stress levels a bit.
Grocery and meal planning. Luckily, our local Dodge Street Hy-Vee delivers, so I am putting our delivery on the calendar to order every Thursday for delivery on Saturday morning.
The doctor specified that Nick will need a high protein diet with lots of vegetables and fruit. We are casual vegetarians, so this shouldn’t be an issue, though getting lots of protein might be a challenge. We are thinking about having monthly “meal prep” dates with family and friends, so we can have our freezer stocked. A few friends have also offered to prepare meals for us, which will be wonderful! Below are some of the recipes we've been enjoying. If you have any recipe suggestions or other tips in general, please feel free to send us a link through the comments or the contact page!
PB&J Thumbprint Breakfast Cookies
Support. Nick and I are fortunate to have a network of family and friends near and far who will be helping us get through the next twelve weeks. Thanks to every one of you!