Update on chemo and cancer

[Guest guest]

Hi everyone.

This is my update after seeing my Oncologist this afternoon.

I begin a new chemotherapy regimen on Sept. 10th. This will include

two chemotherapy drugs, Abraxane and Gemzar. I will have treatment

every week for three weeks and then have one week off, then repeat

the cycle. After a few months we will do another PET scan to check

results. Probably in early December.

This chemotherapy has a good chance of reducing the size of my

tumors. No guarantees. I don't know if it will continue for more

than three months, depends on how well I tolerate it and if it is

working. It definitely has the potential of causing problems with

red and white blood counts, so these may have to be treated. Blood

tests will be done weekly to keep track of any problems that could

occur. If it is working well, it will probably continue through

January, maybe February. I may have radiation after the chemo

ends. That has been discussed several times, but chemo has to be

completed first.

I am feeling ok now, still tired and weak, but not excessively so. I

may be more tired and weak when I start the new chemo regime. Side

effects may have some similarities and some differences. Hand/foot

syndrome is not a side effect of this chemo, but peripheral

neuropathy may be. Hair loss is not listed as a major side effect,

but it is a side effect of both types of chemo. Nausea is listed as

a side effect for both, but is generally able to be controlled by

anti-emetics. An itchy rash is listed as a side effect to both, so

hope that I don't get it or, if I do, it can be controlled. I will

know more about side effects after a few treatments, I am sure.

My sister plans on going home the end of September, so I will be

dealing with this pretty much on my own. So, I hope it is not too

much to handle. I have to drive 120 miles round trip each

week. Generally I don't feel really bad the day of the chemo, so

getting home is not a problem (so far).

If you have any questions, let me know. I try to do an update

whenever anything important or really different occurs.

Lynda

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi Lynda:

I sure hate to think of you driving back and forth for these

treatments, while not feeling well, considering that you will be going

into the winter weather for at least part of this treament. Is there

anyone else who could drive you if this gets to be a problem?

Am I correct in assuming you are not able to get the treatment locally?

Cathie

[Guest guest]

Goodmorning Lynda ~

Wow, sounds like you have a good

new regeim to get rid of the cancer !

That is great ! ! I read about the Abraxene

and it sounds like it has some positives

to it.

You are always in my thoughts and prayers

Lynda, Love you ~ Dede

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