This past week was round two of chemo, and I noticed a few differences from round one. I had more energy on chemo day and the days following, though it came in short spurts. I really think accupuncture helped—I went the Thursday before and after chemo. I’ll try to keep that rhythm, but this week my acupuncturist is on vacation. A good test of the theory, I suppose!

I did have more nausea this time, mostly managed with meds—until day five. That night, Alex and I had an evening out (thanks Mom and Dad Castillo!). We grabbed dinner at an outdoor beer garden and were feeling good enough to stop for gelato. Big mistake. Within minutes, I was miserably sick—two pit stops later, I was in a McDonald’s bathroom, praying, shaky, and contemplating laying on the dirty floor. Pretty sure I traumatized Alex, but he was incredible. Between his driving skills and comforting me, he’s got husband of the year in the bag.

I spoke with my oncology team and they confirmed it was likely delayed GI side effects from chemo. It blows my mind that I can feel relatively okay and then suddenly feel like a bomb went off in my gut. It’s rough—but I share it so you know how to pray and to shed light on the realities of chemo. This journey isn’t for the faint of heart.

This week begins the biggest “shed.” While I’m cold capping to preserve hair, I’ll still lose a significant amount. The hope is it sheds evenly—patchy loss would force me to stop cold capping due to scalp burn.

Hair has been an emotional topic—probably because it’s something tangible to focus on when so much feels out of my control. But over the last couple of weeks, I’ve found more peace. If it happens, it happens. We’ll figure it out.

On a hopeful note—I was able to get a free wig through a program at the hospital! When I went in, they had just switched vendors and had no samples. The “wig lady” Lisa warned me she only had a few dark, short wigs left. I was honestly frustrated, what was the point of me coming in that day? But God showed up. The first four boxes she opened were all long and in my color range—Lisa was shocked, I wasn’t. It’s not high-end, but it’s something. God even knows the number of artificial hairs on my head. :)

Each round of chemo brings new challenges and unexpected moments—some hard, some hopeful. This past week reminded me that while my body is going through a lot, I’m not walking through it alone. Whether it’s a surprise wig, a rough night turned into a deeper appreciation for my husband, or a little more peace about my hair, God continues to meet me in the mess.

The boys. My boys will always be number one on my prayer list. The adjusting and emotional toll is a constant part of their day. Emotional outbursts and displaying worry are becoming more frequent. Please pray for Teddy, he’s at a new summer camp program this month and doesn’t want to go. Also pray for my momma heart. My mom guilt is flaring up since I’m the reason he can’t be home until school starts this fall. 

My bodily symptoms to subside. As I mentioned above, my body is starting to have lingering effects from the chemo medication. Pray that this will be a better week, as I have off, for reprieve and that I would feel more like myself. 

People often ask how they can help beyond prayer. Honestly? Some days I’m not even sure myself! But this site is the best place to check. Signing up for meals, helping with transportation to appointments, or keeping the kids busy makes a huge difference. These tangible acts not only meet practical needs, but also ease the load on Alex and my parents—and lift a lot of the guilt and mental weight off my shoulders. As our needs change, we’ll keep the site updated.

Thank you for walking alongside and loving us. 

For His glory,

Elly