Thursday, January 7, 2010

Explanation of the treatment plan

We made another visit to the cancer center today for a "training" to get the new therapy started. Mike will have the first infusion on Monday. We were told to expect the treatment to last about 3 hours. Mike will first get antinausea medication and steroids through the IV and then the chemotherapy. We were told the side effects usually start on therapy day and can last a few days. Since hemorrhaging is a side effect, the doctor has decided to take Mike off of his blood thinner. This was a question I asked on Tuesday and after thinking about it, the doctor made the decision.

Mike's immunity will be compromised with the treatment, so we will again have to avoid crowds and sick people. The hand sanitizer will be available when you want to visit. The dosage of steroids was again increased and I think Mike's headaches may be a bit better today. We are hoping this continues as he has suffered greatly with them for the last week.

This morning, after a particularly rough night, a dear friend called from far away Peru. It was so wonderful to hear her voice and feel her calm spirit. I truly believe she was an angel sent to comfort me. We also were recipient of other angelic help today in the way of errands being run, snow being cleared and food being delivered. We appreciate all of our angel friends.

2 comments:

  1. We are so happy to know "help is on the way" in terms of treatment for those miserable headaches. You have such an amazing medical community there in Muncie. Your complete confidence in the new treatment plan and services is certainly a blessing.

    The scripture from Proverbs 3:5 is sure appropriate for at this time in your life. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths." What comfort and peace that message can provide during these times of trial.

    All our Love and Prayers,
    Jan and Wes

    PS Only 4 1/5 months until we become Hoosiers again!!! If you'd keep that Indiana weather under control our builder would be able to get more accomplished!!!

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  2. At times like these, sometimes the best one can hope for are some additional options for treatment or at least for pain. Neither are what we want, but most important is that Mike be as comfortable as possible...because if he isn't I know you aren't either Nancy.. So, hang in there & keep him comfortable until the next round of possibilities start tomorrow. Thanks again for sharing your journey (as painful as it must be) with all of us. I know I speak for every one of your friends....we just wish there was something we could do to help...instead we will continue to send positive thoughts & prayers your way to give you all strength.
    Love you guys,
    Cindy, Jeff & Chelsea

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