Hi again,
I am just looking for comparison, and opinion from more seasoned chemo patients here, as I have posted previously my Hub has had now I believe 16 treatments , the majority was the standard 5FU, Avastin & Oxaliplatin... but after so many Oxali tx's he has neuropathy, so no more of that. he's been getting infusions every other week, of the 5FU and Avastin only for 4-5 of the last visits. his cancer has very minimal shrinkage, but because hes handling it well Onc wants to continue , he is on maintenance/ palliative according to Onc. I have asked if he is on maintenance why so much treatment, and can't he have lower dose? My fear is the cumulative effects are going to catch up, she said that he must continue this or cancer will begin to grow, and no lower dose... so .. we discussed switching to Xeloda so he can attempt to be employed, going to Dr every other week and disconnect three days later do not agree with employment.. he is trying to find a new job, and is NOT telling his employer of his diagnosis.
So, my question is, what is the deal with chemo? I mean whats the difference between maintenance and regular chemo treatments ? it sounds as though he's getting "reguar" (aggressive?) treatments but shes calling it maintenance... (sorry im feeling bitter about all of this today)
also, how rough is xeloda? she said its harder on people... any advice on that ??? how do they administer the Avastin with that ? (we will be finding out next appt)
We have not "shopped" around for dr.'s we have just stuck with this one, I still want to contact Dr. Kemeni but the fact we are facing uncertainty about our insurance has been a road block mentally,
We praise God he is doing so well, he feels great, he looks good, his labs are not "alarming" ... I have a fear of rocking the boat.......
Thanks for your time & any input you have
Moni