Dr. John, the Radiation Oncologist who will be giving me the treatment for my residual tumor next to the lower esophagus and perhaps extending into the esophagus wants me to have additional chemotherapy to enhance the effect of the radiation.
He proposes Taxotere and possibly also 5-FU. The Taxotere would be given once weekly over about 1 hour in a dose less than if it were to be used as a primary chemotherapeutic drug. The 5-FU would be given as a slow infusion over 3-5 days using a portable pump. These would be given at the same time as the Radiation.
I'm pretty bummed about this development.
I have reached out to Dr. N. and to my friend, Bill Podolsky, who is a Radiation Oncologist for additional opinions.
Planning is to be done Friday and treatment is tentatively set to begin July 11 and to last 5 weeks.
Meanwhile, we are at the Chukchansi Hotel and Casino near Oakhurst about 40 minutes from Fresno.
So far, I am down $80, but Judy is up $55.
Hope you have success with the Taxotere and 5-FU chemo. Listen to your oncos and do the chemo. Scott was never treated with those chemo agents, and to be quite honest, I've never heard of those two drugs being used for Merkel Cell or any cancer on the same cellular line as MCC. He was treated with many other chemo drugs, as you've read in our blog. I do think you need to keep up with Cisplatin for a few more cycles and maybe, some Cytoxan, but your doctors know best. So thrilled that you are going forward with more chemo, no matter what type. Don't listen to the doctors who tell you that chemo won't work for metastatic MCC. My son was given a rather nasty death sentence by a certain doctor in June of 08 who will remain nameless. He told me that chemo wouldn't work. Thankfully, I relied on our awesome onco's expertise ... three years later. We will be praying for you Dave !
ReplyDeleteDiane and Scott
caringbridge: scotthammond
PS - Scott had his super duper endoscopy today. Stuff was sent for biopsy, but we are hopeful that all is well after talking to our gastro doc. Chemo saved my son's life. Your story will be the same. Stay strong !!
How does one post a blog while losing $80 at a casino?
ReplyDeleteMark Alson
It didn't take very long.
ReplyDeleteI think the Nevada casinos have a higher payout ratio. That means it takes longer to lose the money.
Whether playing the casinos or fighting MCC - it is all a gamble. But I wishing great odds at both tables. And if you must hedge your bets, I'd put my money on the fight against MCC. Hoping to hear good news from you as I complete my 4th cycle (12th treatment) today.
ReplyDeletes/George Murray
Dave,
ReplyDeleteBetween your radiologist friend,Dr. N and the knowledge you have being in the medical field yourself I am sure you will come up with a plan that you are comfortable with. Just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and that I am wishing only good things for you. Maybe this treatment will be the one that shows promise for others too. Take care Dave. Good news that Judy was balancing out your loses at the Casino:)
Carol V.