I begin tomorrow with a program of Erbitux, the growth inhibitor I mentioned earlier, and Irinotecan, a chemotherapy drug I have taken twice before. Both of these medicines will be administered by way of an intravenous infusion which I will receive at the North Vancouver Cancer Clinic.
This is how Erbitux works!
I'm familiar with the side-effects of Irinotecan, nausea, severe diarrhea, suppression of the immune system (low white blood cells), and hair loss (sometimes). Erbitux is known particularly for a nasty skin rash on the face, head, chest, shoulders, and back. The trick with chemo is to manage the side-effects in such a way as to continue with the chemo program.The plan is for me to receive these medicines once every two weeks for 20 weeks. 10 treatments in all. If I am able to stick with it the treatments will be finished in mid-April. It is a long program.
Stay tuned for updates!
Rob; in Vancouver
"Yesterday I decided to go to the office.
I got as far as the bedroom door.
Chemo strikes."
Peter Jennings
2 comments:
Rob, Good news, I am on my 4th cycle this week. Things going good. I've been viewing all the Lance Armstrong "Livestrong videos " and my bloodwork is good. Just manage the rash and lets fight baack for awhile. It feels good to have a plan.
Strange that we need to kill our body to stay alive. But keeping the long term perspective in mind will help to get you through the tough times. Wish I was there to help take your mind off the side-effects.
Always thinking of you,
Love Robyn
XOXOXOXOXOX
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