Quick Update

I've been on the new chemo program for a little over a week, and it's going alright. I haven't experienced serious side effects or anything too difficult.

I'm getting in the routine of taking the three sets of pills when and how I'm supposed to (some are before a meal, after a meal, etc.) Of course I've got an app for that.

I don't feel in full swing, but I didn't really expect I would at this point. One day at a time.

Change in Plan

Early Spring at the Conservatory

Well, it was nice while it lasted, the months of no medical drama.

At my last tumor markers check, the numbers were a bit elevated, which prompted a CT scan in early March, which showed that the liver mets are increasing in size again.

So I need to switch to a different chemo plan. Thankfully there are several to choose from. Two oncologists reviewed my case and both recommend the same plan. It's two different drugs, lapatinib (aka Tykerb) and capecitibine (aka Xeloda), for those of you playing at home.

Both of these drugs are pills I take orally at home. I started them yesterday, and so far so good. I'll stay on this plan for as long as it's effective against the cancer and I can tolerate it.

There's a plethora of unpleasant side effects that I could get, but I just have to go through a cycle or two to find out which of them, if any, will bother me. So I'm trying to be prepared without being obsessed, with varying degrees of success. (It does seem likely I'll be keeping my hair!)

I think there's another tumor marker check in 3-6 weeks, and we'll learn if this chemo is doing some good against the cancer.

This is a setback, and the last couple of weeks I've been on an emotional roller coaster. I've been on this same roller coaster a few times now, and many of the dips and flips are familiar. But unfortunately, just because I remember how scary the ride is, doesn't mean I get a free pass to skip it.

Being an experienced rider,  I've got a number of strategies to help me get through. Here are two of the most important ones:

1. Be Here Now

2. Lean on Family and Friends

After the CT scan about 10 days ago, B and I walked through the Conservatory. I'm not sure I'd been there in March before. Such loveliness!

It always makes me feel better to walk through there. Considering at home we have a total of two scraggly houseplants and a yard that is in constant need of attention, I find it a little surprising.

I've never cared for gardening and know very little about it. But I feel the Conservatory, with its fascinating collection of artfully arranged trees, plants and flowers that change seasonally is an oasis of calming beauty in the middle of stress and strife.

As I move into the new chemo plan we'll update the "Lotsa Helping Hands" website as needed with requests for help.

I'm still working - fortunately I'm in control of my hours and who I take on as clients - and am leaving room for adjusting to this new plan.

In the meantime, I love seeing you and hearing from you. Thank you for sticking with me during the ups and downs.