We've all got to go back to work sometime, and it's come time for me to go back to fighting these tumors.
Considering my last chemo treatment was in mid-November, I can't really complain. There has been additional growth to the largest tumor in my liver with some new "satellite spots" around it, as well as two new tumors in a different area of the liver. The tumor in my lung is relatively the same size as it was in the last scan, and my other organs seem clean.
Friday, July 15th, I will begin treatment using Doxil, once every four weeks. Compared to the other chemotherapy drugs I have been on Doxil is said to have less nausea and less hair loss (that doesn't mean none, it just means that comparatively it's not as severe for most people). An even better upside to doxil is that it will only take a couple hours to administer, instead of the 6-8 (+) hours the other treatments took. The most common side effects linked with doxil are hand/foot swelling and pain, as well as skin rashes; the least common is heart problems. The annoying side to doxil is said to be that it has a delayed reaction, meaning, that after two treatments my scan could show very little or no decrease at all; but, the scan after my fourth treatment could, will, show a significant decrease in tumor size.
So back to work we go. I'll go back to chemo, and you all please keep the prayers and well wishes going. I'll try to post a picture of the hair that I've worked so hard to grow - just in case I do loose it again. If you're having a drink next Friday, be sure to have one for me; happy summer!
Stay strong, stay happy and smile! We love you and are with you for every round! Love, The Fiore Gang
ReplyDeleteOn July 15, 1876 St. Louis pitcher George Washington Bradley pitched the first no-hitter in baseball.
ReplyDeleteOn July 15, 1973 Angels' pitcher Nolan Ryan became the first in two decades to win two no-hitters in a season.
You have Saints and Angles pitching for you! One is even named George Washington! Ooh a president, too!
Zoltar says: "The signs are favorable!"
Col, JM,
ReplyDeleteWe think of you guys each day and continue sending positive prayer and thoughts your way.
Sincerely,
Sue and Joe Couture
Colleen YOU WILL BEAT THIS!! thoughts and prayers go your way every day.. tons of loves and hugs xo... You are one of the strongest people who walk this earth. We are behind you and here for you in a moments notice. - aunt Kim and family
ReplyDeleteJuly 15 is the birthday of Mother Cabrini, the first American citizen to become a saint. Her miracles include curing a blind child and a terminally ill nun. I will begin a Novena to her for you on this day. If anyone else is interested in joining me, here it is:
ReplyDeleteNovena to obtain favors through the intercession of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini
Almighty and Eternal Father, Giver of all Gifts, show us Your mercy, and grant, we beseech You, through the merits of Your faithful Servant, Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, that all who invoke her intercession may obtain what they desire according to the good pleasure of Your Holy Will ...that Colleen will be cured of this disease.
O Lord Jesus Christ, Savior of the world, mindful of Your bountiful goodness and love, deign, we implore You, through the tender devotion of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini for Your Sacred Heart, to hear our prayers and grant our petitions.
O God, the Holy Spirit, Comforter of the afflicted, Fountain of Light and Truth, through the ardent zeal of Your humble handmaid, Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, grant us Your all-powerful aid in our necessities, sanctify our souls and fill our minds with Divine Light that we may see the Holy Will of God in all things.
Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, beloved spouse of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, intercede for us that the favor we now ask may be granted.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory to God (Three Times)
Fran V
Colleen, We are sending thoughts, prayers and much love your way from Cali. Looking forward to seeing you in August. You are so incredible!
ReplyDeleteLove, Sue and Keith