Debbie and I decided we needed to get back in touch with my oncologist at Scripps. Even though I was scheduled for chemo Friday at UCSD, we just didn't think it was very efficacious and wanted to get Dr. Saven's opinion.
Our appointment was Wednesday, Sept. 2. The night before I had pretty serious night-sweats and a temp of 102. We had a great consult with Dr. Saven, and he agreed that a different approach might be more appropriate. Considering the shape I was in and the temperature/sweatting the night before he had me admitted immediately. The first problem was finding the new chemo, because it's usually given on an out-patient basis, so the regular channels the BMT unit uses didn't have it. They eventually found some and scheduled the two rounds of chemo for Saturday and Sunday. Meanwhile, some other concerns surfaced regarding my kidneys, and then my fever spikes. They were also concerned over some momentary spikes in the ekg, so they wired me up with a remote model to constantly monitor it. They also gave me a couple units of blood. I can't remember all that they did for me those first few days, but obviously I needed it.
The chemo sessions went without a problem. I was probably ready to go home Sunday, but they kept me over to check out the other areas of concern. Eventually all the tests kept coming back negative, and they let me loose this afternoon.
I feel 100% better than I have in the last few weeks, so I think this chemo is going to work very well. The visible swelling from tumors on my neck has significantly gone down, and seems to be continuing to do so.
With car-pooling help from a friend from work I'll be starting back to Vista Wednesday and Thursday, and work from home Friday. I have a follow up labs Friday at 8:00 a.m. at Green just to see how everything is going.
This chemo will be 2 courses every 3 weeks for about 7 months, usually on an out-patient basis.
Thanks to all for you prayers and support. Debbie has borne the brunt of everything, so please keep her in your prayers.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Comments