Since the last post, I've had two more chemotherapy infusions: one on March 4th and another on March 11th. I also saw the doctor on March 4th. I asked the doctor if he thought the ache in my side would subside and the cough would go away with the chemotherapy and he said it definitely should. He expects I'll notice a difference when this cycle is done. We're scheduled for cycles into May now. We'll do another CT scan in a few weeks.
Also on the 4th, I signed paperwork to get the gene mapping started. That is supposed to take about two weeks so we'll know that information by the next doctor appointment. At the end of the day, we were approved for 100% funding -- that big bill is going to be covered by Medicare, the supplemental insurance, or by "Foundation Medicine". If you're interested in the details of why we are doing this gene mapping, the website for Foundation Medicine has more details on that. In general it will give us the targeted options for exactly the type of cancer that I have. It's like moving from a shotgun to a rifle shot.
The chemo side effects are a bit different this time compared with a year ago. Last time, the cancer fatigue slowly built up over the 19 separate infusions. This time, it all came back at once after the very first infusion. I'm just tired, with a kind of fatigue I have never experienced from just being busy. It just never really goes away, no matter how much rest I get. Oh well -- the time gained is worth it.
I continue to be amazed and thankful for my strong and broad support system. Of course Kath and my kids lead that group. Friends and family from across the country and neighbors here are also a big part of it. A text, e-mail, phone call, drop by visit, or other thoughtful gesture means a lot and I am humbled by your support. Thanks again.
Courage and positivity and prayer will go a long way. We love you, Max.
ReplyDeleteMax, thanks for letting all of us follow your journey here with this blog. Kathy and I have you, Kath, and your family in our prayers. I found the work of the Foundation Medicine fascinating and hopefully the gene mapping is going to give the specificity needed for your treatments and cure. As always, your friend Paul
ReplyDeleteMax, it as good to talk with you a few weeks ago before the CPSE Conference. I gave Cliff the update and greetings. Of course you know that we are all thinking of you and following your blog to keep up with how you are doing. Just dropping a note to let you know that you and Kath are always in our thoughts and prayers. I will be doing some work in the St. Charles, IL area next week and hope to see Ann Worthington. After I catch up with them, ill give you another call to update you on her condition. God Bless.
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