Yesterday my sister-in-law Michelle picked the boys and I up early in the morning. After dropping the boys at Brad's parents house, we headed down the road to meet with my oncologist at Johns Hopkins. I had anticipated getting orders for follow up scans and a perscription for a new Chemotheraphy drug which I had already researched. As we chatted, I told her I was trying to time the start of the drug which listed several typical chemo side effects. I was starting to dread the nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bone pain, muscle pain, tiredness, and overall feeling of yuck. I had also read that the drug interacted with blood thinners like Coumadin (which I am still taking) and knew close monitoring was going to needed. Translation: increased blood draws.
We zipped right into Baltimore, chatting the entire way. We didn't spend much time in the waiting area before my doctor was ready for us and she had a slight change of plans for me! Since my cancer returned in 2008, I have had success on estrogen blocking agents instead of harsh chemo. Each drug works for a period of time and then we switch. This has allowed me to spend the last two years going about the normal tasks of living and loving the simple things like working and playing and enjoying the kids!
Turns out there is a drug that has been used for some time with little success, but a new study changed the dosing of the drug and it has been so successful that the FDA has now changed the old dosing to that of the study. The benefits to trying the drug are many. First, the side effects are like those of the others I have taken: hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings. Secondly, the drug does not have the severe interaction with Coumadin and I will be on the Coumadin for at least six months. Finally, this drug does not slow the healing process like a chemo drug does, thus allowing my pelvis to contine healing.
According to my doctor, the study has shown positive results for 10-12 months in halting and/or reversing the progression of the disease, but since it is all so new, they are unsure of any longer term results. I am always hesitant when switching drugs. I just pray that it works. I realize that eventually I am headed toward chemo and then I will run through those drugs. However, if I can have a chance at returning to my life as normal as possible, I am going to jump up and run with it! If they can find a drug that works that doesn't include side effects a mile long that will make me feel so sick, I'm going to try it out!
So, I got my first dose yesterday. Two shots. One in each butt muscle with a needle that I was glad I didn't see until she was done! LOL! I will return in two weeks for another dose, then again in two weeks for another dose. Then it becomes a monthly process. I have to schedule some repeat scans and they will keep a close eye on me throughout the next couple of months.
I should probably be hesitant because I do realize what I am dealing with. However, I feel so good! I am not on any pain meds, my kids are healthy, I can move around with my cane, and everything seems to be looking up! I'm really looking forward to Friday when my brothers and their families will be here to celebrate Christmas! AND, after 31 years, my dad's last day of work is today! There just seem to be so many things to celebrate that I can't help but be happy!
Happy New Years!!
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