Hi Lisa - My husband, Harry, is also going through chemo right now. Gemzar and Cisplatin. The doctor splits the cisplatin dose into two sessions saying it should be easier on him, which so far is correct. His main difficulty during chemo is when he gets the IV push of Decadron. For some reason shortly after it is injected Harry gets a wave of dry heaves. So far no vomiting, thankfully. After a few minutes he is ok, but it is really hard to watch and feel helpless..other than be ready with the wastebasket in case something does come up
The other reaction he has that is disheartening is the next day after the second Cisplatin dose, he receives a shot of Sargramostim. Within an hour he has flu-like symptoms, aches, heartburn/nausea and just an all-over puny feeling that lasts throughout the day and evening. This happened with the first round and then yesterday too. His compazine helped with the nausea but he didn't want to take a tylenol for the aches until I finally convinced him to take it last night before bed. This morning he woke up feeling better, but he has to give himself another injection today and tomorrow, which he is not looking forward to...although I've reminded him the last time he felt better the next day even with another inj, so hopefully he will also feel ok later today...It is just hard as the "caregiver" to watch and feel helpless to fix things - other than reminders to take meds to help with the symptoms. I keep thinking that considering the big picture, this is just a temporary bump in the road and this too will pass..as you said, I guess it is a small price to pay in the long run...as difficult as it can be at any given moment. We wish you well through your treatment cycles and will keep you in prayer also.
Harry and Margot
PS So far his hair has thinned, but hasn't come out totally...although he keeps joking he'll be getting the dog clippers out soon to give himself a buzz cut (I know it is bothering him but at least he is trying to ease the pain with humor)