Admittedly I did not have high hopes for yesterday’s doctor appointment, and as expected, the tumors have continued to grow. Xeloda was great while it was working; but we have come to an end and are moving onto Gemzar. Gemcitabine (Gemzar) is an IV chemotherapy administered every week for three weeks with one week off. The most severe side effect of this drug is the lowering of blood counts, in which case if they get too low Gemzar will be administered two weeks in a row with one week off instead of three. As always, there is also a possibility of the normal chemotherapy side effects with Gemzar: fever, chills, nausea, muscle aches, mild hair loss, etc. I will begin this new, hopeful, treatment one week from today, Good Friday.
In the spirit of hopefulness, positive outlooks, and going through as many chemotherapy drugs as necessary, I want to recognize the fact that I have made it three years since being diagnosed. I was diagnosed in March of 2009 at which time my life expectancy was projected to be a year and a half at most; I can proudly say that this past month marked three years, double the projected expectancy! To all of the people who have helped us along the way, prayed, and sent well wishes, I thank you – here’s to many more years!
Have a Happy Easter!
UPCOMING APPTS:
Chemo – Friday, April 6th
Chemo – Friday, April 13th
Chemo – Friday, April 20th
