Chemotherapy--Take Two!

He did it! Allen was able to receive his first chemo treatment today! He had surgery last Friday to repair his port, which turns out to have been completely severed.  Here he is last Friday receiving his new, improved port--Ironman 2.0 (if you remember Allen used Ironman to explain his power port to the kiddos):

The 2.0 version is new and improved!

So, today going into treatment it was natural that we were both apprehensive about having port problems again.  Our nurse, Katie, was amazing! We have been so blessed to have such wonderful people caring for Allen! She did have some problems with Allen's port early on--not too sure why Allen insists on being so difficult?! But, after a lot of flushing, two x-rays, and some "gymnastics" on Allen's part to get into the perfect position to allow his port to flow, we had SUCESS! Allen received his anti-nausea medicines first, and then his chemo cocktails.  His regimen is called ABVD--we like to think it stands for Allen Bates' Victory Dance because we know he will be doing a victory dance really soon when he is completely CURED! The A drug is also referred to as the "Red Devil" because not only is it actually red, (yes, RAZORBACK RED) but it is the most dangerous drug Allen takes. It is very strong and can cause major damage if it gets outside his veins.  It also causes his mouth to burn, so he eats a lot of ice while they administer this drug.  Next was the B.  They did a quick test dose of this drug because it can cause lung problems.  He responded great! Finally he got the VD, which comes in a funny brown colored bag because it doesn't like the light.  Here is Allen during his treatment today:

He had just started his IV anti-nausea drugs.

Listening to music and catching up on work email.

Here is a shot of his cocktails.

We are finally back home! Well, I am back home and he is off to the office.  Yes, he has been itching to go in and get to work! Allen's next appointment isn't until next Monday to check all his levels.  Please keep him in your thoughts--we need GOOD numbers!  We are also hoping that he doesn't have to deal with nausea or too much fatigue.   Remember, if you want to email him words of encouragement, you can reach him directly at 4teamallenbates@gmail.com.  He enjoys reading the notes everyone sends! Thank you again to everyone for all your kind words and help! It means so much!