So, it's December, about 2 months after the MRI on the old liver. Historical recap: The tiny spot was now two larger spots....blah, blah, blah, cut to the chase....relapse. Bummer. I have a new oncologist, Dr. Angela Coscio. MD Anderson - St. Lukes. Very smart. Did I mention she has red hair? Tall? Red hair...hmm, where was I ? Any way, she ordered all new tests to find out what was going on. Met with Dr. Coscio yesterday. Confirmed the biopsy was positive for the cancer cells, time to discuss next steps.
Next steps....chemo...this time though, slightly different 'cocktail', mixed specially for this specific cancer cell tissue. The other regimen, FOLFOX6 didn't get it all the last time. No Oxiplaitin this time, so no new neuropathy. Yeah! (still no feeling in my toes) The new chemical might cause acne and maybe some 'digestive distress', but other than that about like the last time, which I tolerated well. Only 8 treatments she says, since they are very targeted. After 4 we'll re-scan to see if the lesions are shrinking (which they should be) then 4 more and then my liver Dr., Aloia, will re-sect the tissue out and I think she said the tiny ones they'll zap with a bit of radiation (that's a bit scary).
So, Merry Christmas to me....Christmas Eve morning, bright and early, head to the hospital to get my shiny new Port installed. Yipee...I was a good boy this year, thank you Santa. So I'll be in GREAT shape for Christmas Day. I was supposed to cook the big Christmas dinner but not sure I'll feel up to it. I guess I'll start my first treatment after Christmas sometime, but before New Year's Day.
Planning a 10-day trip to Korea in March and I asked Dr. Coscio, with her red hair, if she thought I could still take the trip and she said absolutely! She would make it work so that I can be gone for those days. Hope all goes well.
So, there you have it. I'm ready. I have a pretty good idea what to expect. Mentally...let's do this and get it over and done!! I don't plan on slowing down too much, gotta keep busy. I guess I'll try to add to this after the treatments, it helped me the first time, I'm sure it will help this time. I guess I'll talk to ya'll in the New Year. Happy Holidays!!
