Well........... this seems to be good news............ I have just finished my last Cisplatin treatment (I will not have any more of that drug due to possbile toxicities). I had thought that the Gemzar (Gemcitibane) would continue for a while longer, to ensure stability or further fight back the disease.
My oncologist now feels that the August scan results were good enough to warrant a complete "vacation" from chemo for awhile. Her plan is to follow me with scans and keep a close eye on how things are.... she seems confident that we can get several months of "chemo free" time without compromising my overall state, just be watching whatever is going on right now.... of course, if things go downhill.... then it will be a swift return to another set of drugs....
Until I see the next scan, I think I'm going to be a bit nervous about this turn of events, however, she has great faith in this being the correct thing to do and I have a high level of faith in her... I may do a bit of checking around (this being my nature), possibly a second opinion as well........ For now though, once I finish the rest of this "set" it might be time to enjoy myself for awhile..... since my quality of life is good, it will be time to regenerate my reserves, regain my strength and do a bit of travelling. Note that we are not at a disease free state, so it is a "given" that a return to chemo will be inevitable..... she is hoping for 3-6 months of a break.
That's the latest news and while it has me nervous, it also makes good sense...... treating Stage IV breast cancer as a chronic disease is a delicate dance of finding chemo drugs that will work for me and keeping your body as healthy as possible to tolerate the onslaught.
It's time for me to pull out a dose of hope again.....
Hope is patience with the lamp lit..........Tertullian
or:
A handful of patience is worth more than a bushel of brains..... Dutch proverb
8 comments:
Good to hear from you Joanne. Hopefully the break will make your body stronger and rested. It should cut down on some of your trips to Wpg. and probably Michelle & Craig will be home for Thanksgiving soon!
The following saying made me think of you:
"People are like stained glass windows; they sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light within"
You are shining brightly Joanne.
Thanks for the update - take care of yourself.
P & G
Jo,
Thanks for the update. Your nervousness is understandable, but I'm sure your body will benefit from the break. Your positive attitude continues to be an inspiration. We will be thinking postive thoughts this Sunday morning as Karen, Kate, Niall and I run (more likely walk)....
Take Care!
Darryl
Thanks again for the update, Joanne. Your mixed feelings on the chemo break are certainly understandable. As you gain strengh, I hope the enjoyment value of this break also increases proportionately. We too will be thinking positive thoughts and we continue to admire your ongoing courage (and that of your whole family). P & G - what a beautiful quote! Enjoy your travels! Love to all!
N & L, Calgary
Hey I'm glad to hear the onc thinks you can slip the leash for a wee while.
I hope you get your strength back and that we can see you over here soon. But as we head for dark days I'll understand if you opt for some Mexican sun instead!
I know you're not convinced, but some supplementation to help you over the chemo might be worth thinking about, maybe a multi vit and some vit C.
I found a pre and a pro biotic helped settle my stomach after chemo treatment.
That's a lovely photograph that you've used, pink and gray are a favourite combo of mine.
Love
Anna
Hi Jo,
I am so glad that you are going to get a break - I know that you are anxious about it but I hope that you can gain your strength and enjoy your trip.
We are looking forward to seeing you all at Christmas!
I love the picture - is that in your yard?
I also love the quote left by P&G! We are all amazed by your true beauty.
Good luck with your next two treatments - we are thinking of you.
Kelly
dear auntie joanne
I hope that you're feeling ok. I hope you will have a great thanks giving and that you'll be feeling ok for it
love Heather
Good to hear from you Joanne, think about you lots and hope that Thanksgiving was a great family weekend.
Michelle in GP
Hello Joanne, That is truly great news and I know you will make the utmost of the break. You are truly inspiring.
I guess that means you will not be in Winnipeg for awhile. We did not make our schedules mess and see each other so will need to figure out another way to connect.
Hope Thanksgiving was great. We had a great time here. Talk soon. Claire
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