The First day of Chemo, the battle begins.

When I checked in at Sanford on Monday I

as met with many familiar faces. People that were happy to see me, and sad to see me back. But I was met with lots of encouragement and support.

I had labs, checking all my levels in my bloodwork, I then met with my Oncologist to discuss my plan. We had a good talk and shared some laughs too. The first thing she said when she walked in was...I love your hair, I'm so sorry you are going to lose it. I told her I have wigs and I plan to get another one or 2.

I met with my nurse navigator Hollie again. She helps with understanding the paperwork, the support that is available. She is also in charge of the Cancer closet. Patients are allowed a free wig or scarf when they are battling cancer.

Upstairs to the 7th floor to the Infusion room. Again, met with nurses happy to see me and sad too. Lori got me going. She took my blood pressure, temperature, oxygen level, plus asked all the necessary questions. I signed the paperwork to start the chemotherapy. Since I have a port, it is easy. Lori just accesses it in my chest and we begin.

Each of my chemo sessions will begin with Benadryl, a steroid, Paclitaxel, Carboplatin with saline flushes in between each one. The Benadryl makes me sleepy, but it is too noisy on the floor with other patients IV trees going off when a bag is empty and needs to be changed. I have tried to sleep. I reclined my chair, pulled my fleece blanket up, turned out my light....no luck.

I got caught up on all the latest Hollywood gossip thanks to my magazines. LOL. I had snacks. I texted me people. I called my mom. I posted a video of Lori accessing my port.

Chemotherapy is mentally and physically draining.

I was in my recliner, hooked up to my IV tree with my drugs for 5 hours. It is exhausting. I prayed for the others behind the curtains getting their drugs. I prayed for all the nurses on the floor helping all of us. I prayed for all the medical personnel helping people. I prayed for my family, my friends and all those who may be struggling with something. I pray that they find some peace.

My friend Marci sent this to me before I left my house.

Deuteronomy 31:6

" Be strong and courageous, Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord, your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you."

God is with me. He will help me get thru this.