Notes From Supergirl

My Diary from the Trenches

Day 112

September20

It turns out I was completely wrong about my platelet count. I went to the hospital today to get a transfusion and found out my platelets were at 70,000! This is a good number and it means that my body is making platelets on its own again. My white blood count and red blood count were also very good. I had convinced myself my platelets were probably around 10,000 because I saw 3 tiny red dots on various parts of my body (a sign your platelets are low) and that I was probably anemic (low red count) because I needed coffee to wake myself up this morning. What a wonderful surprise that I was wrong about all of it. As for the coffee, that was first cup of caffeinated coffee in well over 3, maybe 4 months. Although I had nervous shakes most of the morning, I rather enjoyed it :)

I go back to the hospital on Thursday for more tests but I have two days of freedom to enjoy before then. Somehow I think they’ll involve more coffee and tons of food. I have 13 pounds I’m trying to pack on in the next 2-3 weeks. I have been eating almost every hour on the hour and I’m not having a lot of luck so far. I know, boo hoo, poor me. But really, I’m just skin and bones right now and doing everything I can not to be. There are those who suggest that I eat as much fast food and sugar as I possibly can and then there are those suggesting that I load up on healthy, calorie-dense proteins. Although I’m not big on sugar, I have downed a lot of ice cream and dark chocolate in the last 72 hours. As for protein, I’m trying to eat it where I can but I would certainly say that carbs are looking much more appealing right now. I’m open to any dietary suggestions!

posted under The Daily Record
7 Comments to

“Day 112”

  1. Avatar September 21st, 2010 at 9:13 am Michael Dahan Says:

    Wonderful news!

    One thing I still have to remind myself of all the time: tired does not mean low red blood count…Usually, tired means tired (like having been through a tiring treatment).

    Enjoy the food binging and your time at home.


  2. Avatar September 21st, 2010 at 11:28 am amy Says:

    Carboload – Mac’n'Cheese every day!!! Don’t forget the side of fries :)


  3. Avatar September 21st, 2010 at 9:05 pm Gina Says:

    So happy for you Jess! I saw you in your car as you were picking Ty up and it made me smile to see you in the “pick up” line again. I know those small things are so meaningful to you these days.

    Forget Oprah……Dr. Oz would be a great show to be on when you debut your new book!


  4. Avatar September 21st, 2010 at 9:19 pm Kia Says:

    How do you feel about Mexican food. Lots of beans, rice, cheese, avocados etc… I think even if you do whole grains that might stick to you! :-)


  5. Avatar September 22nd, 2010 at 7:23 am Sharon Says:

    Maybe create an Ensure milkshake…my father’s doctior recommended them after his treatments and they worked like a jewel! You can also add any variety of fruit and they are very tasty too~


  6. Avatar September 22nd, 2010 at 8:10 am Claire Says:

    Pancakes with real butter and real maple syrup!


  7. Avatar September 22nd, 2010 at 8:29 pm Irene Says:

    That’s great news, Jess!!!! How about Noodles & Company’s Pesto Cavatappi for a quick fix? Or if you can make the drive, the Pasta Milano and a couple loaves of bread from Macaroni Grille are my fav!!!!! You can grab some tiramisu while you’re there! Let me know if you need company ;)

    Good luck! Looking forward to the bracelet-making party!