So sorry it's taken me so long to post an update after round 5 chemo! It coincided with work deadlines, and I was a bit crazed all last week. The good news is that R-CHOP (Andrew's new regimen) is a breeze compared to what we're used to. Oh my goodness -- we checked into the hospital on Thursday night, and he was done by midnight, discharged by 11:00 am the next morning! We're used to 3-4 days of heavy duty chemo plus intense after effects. And they tell us that the last 3 rounds may be able to be done at the office in the infusion center (this is where people go to get regular chemo that doesn't require hospital admissions). We would arrive in the morning and spend about 6-8 hours and go home -- no hospital needed! The idea of that is so overwhelmingly wonderful, we barely want to contemplate it, in case it doesn't happen.
Andrew has been doing really well post treatment. He's had fatigue and nausea, but nothing, NOTHING compared to what happens after hyper-CVAD. He's been feeling pretty good, and now we understand how people in regular chemo treatment can go to work and have a life. It's just such a different experience. So, we're all still keeping a close eye on him, to see how the blood cell production fares -- he's scheduled for a blood draw tomorrow, and another one next week. We're still doing the nightly neupogen injections to stimulate white blood cell production, and he still takes a million pills every day, but all in all, such a huge change for him!
We're obviously thrilled about the PET results, but always wary. We hope that the less intense chemo is able to take care of what's left in the nodes, but the doctors are optimistic, so we are too. Cautiously optimistic. Round 6 is scheduled for April 6th, if all goes smoothly. Thanks to everyone for hanging in there with us all these many months. It's been a very long slog through this treatment, but we can see an end in sight finally, finally. Now we start to count down!
Love and thanks to you all!!
xo
L
Linda, I check back periodically to see how things are going. So glad to see that this last round was much easier on you both. Just letting you know that your family is continually in our prayers. Send my best to Jay. Leisa
ReplyDeleteHey guys. Sorry its been a while but wanted you both to know that Lauren and I are thinking about you and praying for you all the time. we are so happy that you are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Cant ever imagine the hell (we can only pretend if we haven't lived it) but we see the strength the power and the commitment to life coming through in your writing. Biggest bear hugs to you both and to the kids. we love you and miss you! Press on! love Alex and Lauren
ReplyDeleteThank you, guys! Alex, now that Andrew is starting to feel a bit better, we are hoping to get into the city soon for a dinner with all of our pals. Can't wait to see you guys! xoxox
ReplyDeleteL