Starting Chemo

I have decided that it will take a long time to give past history so I had better start with current and work then work out from there in both directions!

So New news is that chemo starts tomorrow! I am very excited! They say that if it works (shrinks the tumor) I will have less pain within a month! That is a hope that is worth all the side effects!

The plan is to do 2 rounds (3-4 weeks each) and then do an MRI. If there is any shrinking or softening we will continue. If not we will adjust dose and/or meds. We will continue with the chemo until the tumor is manageable (there is little to no hope of it ever being GONE) and then use other drugs, surgery and/or radiation to keep it that small.

We are going start with weekly IVs of a low dose (have to get exact dose tomorrow) or Navelbine and Methotrexate.

With the low dose they do not anticipate as many side effects. I will probably NOT lose my hair and have a much lower chance of liver and heart damage. I do have to wash hands, use a foam tooth brush, electric razor, watch my diet, take my temp 2 times a day, and use pads instead of tampons. Side effect we are anticipating are some nausea, low blood count, some fatigue and mouth sores. I think I can live with that list. I guess we will see.

Wish me luck!