way ot but good news!

[Guest guest]

Was at the oncology clinic today for chemo and check up.

Further blood tests show I am still NED (no evidence of disease.)

Four weeks ago I completed 12 weeks of AC (the roughest type to date) of

chemo. Three weeks ago I began my second cycle....a different type of chemo

It includes Taxotere and Herceptin. Herceptin is not really a chemo drug,

but I need it now weekly due to some pathology test on my old breast tissue

which put me in a category called ER negative - I don't know what it means

really, but its not a good thing. The good news is now there is Herceptin

which corrects it.

I begin rads (radiation) on my chest on 9/11. How weird is that! 9/11!

Thats' just a few quick sessions. I will complete Taxotere, after 12 weeks,

in early November, the I am DONE with chemo! Only the Herceptin, through

my port once per week, will go on longer - until next August. I will

continue with once weekly neupegin (sp?) for my white cell count, and

procrit for my red cell count, until I am through with the Taxotere in

November, then I am done with those, too!

More good news. I do not have to wait until next summer for my corneal

transplant. In theory, if all goes well, I can have surgery on my eye

within four weeks following the end of Taxotere. I may be *seeing* in time

for Christmas!

Other good news. I have new peach fuzz on my head and spiky little promises

of eyebrows and eyelashes. I am told once the hair falls out, it will not

likely fall out again, but that the Taxotere and Herceptin may inhibit or

cause slow growth. Oh well. I have learned patience.

Love to all,

Lynn in Michigan (aka PatientSpirit)