Well, I’ve been out of touch for a while due to a rough week crashing from the experimental drug. Spent time and effort building me back up for the Duke appointment on the 23rd. Although I had improved, my platelets did not rebound enough for me to stay in the study. No more Stealth Bomber /TH 302 for me. We felt blindsided by the news, stunned. Thankfully Jenna was calm and rational and much better at processing the info than I was. I was treated with gem and given recommendations for the next 8 weeks of treatment.
The Duke doc and my local doc (Dr. K) have agreed that the next step is to continue with gem infusions here, add a daily oral drug and reassess in two months. I’ll remain in the Duke loop for follow up testing and consultation which keeps multiple options open or on the horizon.
I met with Dr. K and the treatment staff Friday . This coming week would have been my week off anyway so I’ll get some time to recover, eat, gain a bit, build some strength. Plan is to start the new oral drug on the 4th and resume weekly gem on the 7th.
Needless to say this has really challenged me. I am in the process of getting myself straight with a new plan and moving forward. As I get a better handle on the new details, I’ll get some more news out.
Thanks for all of the birthday wishes that came my way. Had a great birthday weekend with friends and family. Thank goodness for old friends who always know just what you need.
I appreciate all the support and prayers you continue to provide for me and my family– you know that’s what sustains me!
