Hello all,
I just wanted to get in touch and let you know how things have been going, now that I am back from MD Anderson. After a scan and a meeting with my oncologist, I have some good news. It turns out that the Folfiri and Vectibix is working, and after 4 rounds the scans show no new growths, and some shrinkage of the tumors. The plan is to keep on truckin.
So that's the good news.. the bad news is that I feel really rung through the ringer chemo-wise. Tired, and not eating very well. Vomiting daily. Plus the Vectibix caused a rash that is stronger than when I had an Erbitux rash back in 2007. I feel like it is the 9th round, when it has only been the 4th. I had chemo 9 days ago and I am still not feeling up to eating a "meal." I would be surprised if I don't end up spending a day or two in the hospital, sooner than later at this rate.
However, while waiting for my appointment with my oncologist, I started talking with a guy sitting next to me. I thought he was a family member of a patient. Turned out that he himself was a stage IV survivor waiting to see his oncologist. He told me that he has been through it all. Chemo for 18 months, Surgery, Radiation, and Chemoembolization of the liver as well. I was pretty amazed, he seemed like he was in great shape, with no signs of what he had been through. It was inspiring to see and reminded me that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It is a rough road, but I just have to keep moving forward.
Anyhow - that's what is new. Overall good news I would say.
Hope you have a good Thanksgiving,
Traveler001