Today was a blood draw and chemo school day taught by an advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP). We learned the schedule of treatment and what the most common side effects will be. There will be cycles of treatment. The first set will last for 12 weeks. This one includes two chemo drugs with an immunotherapy every three weeks. I go in every week for that one. The second cycle will also last 12 weeks, but I go in only every three weeks and it’s two different kinds of chemo and without the immunotherapy. Side effects include GI disturbances in any of the “fun” ways you can imagine, some to all hair lose, fatigue, autoimmune reactions, oh the list goes on…
I will be meeting with a naturopathic oncologist who sounds great. My regular naturopath recommended her. Fortunately, she’s also in network and associated with my healthcare system partners. The ARNP also knows her and said she’s great at helping to mitigate the treatment side effects with diet, acupuncture, and nutrition. Yay!
I just confirmed with the ARNP today that the echocardiogram of my heart was good. There is minor regurgitation in two area otherwise, everything is normal. All body systems are go for chemo. Yay!? This is a case of what kills you makes you stronger. 😬 It is good. These tumors and affiliated lymph nodes are making themselves known more and more and I’m ready for them to shrink.
The mostly part of the smooth sailing is a delay with insurance coverage. I remember from my first visit three weeks ago, that the oncologist receptionist said she had to send my information to the Finance Department to figure out what was happening. Maybe it got lost in the shuffle. The team is on it and I will remind them about the Finance Department on Monday, if needed.
Next Wednesday is the MRI guided biopsy. If insurance and scheduling stars align, chemo might even start next week too.
oh yah. And I might post a photo of my new, short hair cut that is scheduled for tomorrow!
Thank you for your kind comments, cards, and notes. The love is very much appreciated and felt in my heart.
Until next time, let’s all take good care,
Love,
D’Arcy
Good luck on Monday! Excited to see the new haircut. You’re gonna do great.
Thank you, Heather! ☺️
Good luck with the chemo! Hope all goes well.
😊 Thank you, Karen! I’m ready to get this ball rolling.
I never got my comment to your Jan 28th post. And it seems you are steaming right along as a full
Partner with your medical team and adjunct naturopathic support. Wowie zowie. Sounds like your ducks are lined up nicely. If there is anything you might need from me text me on my cell? Quicker response time from me. If Matt needs respite from the drive at some point during your first twelve week intensive protocol treatment , let me know. I am gone from Feb 25-March 10th and again in April 6-20th! However, I still hope to be of service. You are a wonder to behold. Much light and love
Carmen
Ohh Carmen! You are the best. ☺️ Thank you so much for your kindness and support. Just one last duck to line up, as far as I can tell. 🦆 Quack!
Thank for your update. Let the treatments begin. Hope the insurance issue gets straightened out soon. You are so organized with all this you are amazing. I wish I was closer so i could be of some help but with you in thoughts and prayers all the way.Hugs
Thank you! Hugs felt, Rose 🤗