It's been a while since I checked in with the news about my alleged brain.
You may recall that our most previous episode ended with new and decidedly
gloomy news about my most recent check up. While this month's update will not
offer unbridled optimism to anyone, there is at least reason to keep the mood in
the upswing for the immediate future.
Trying to keep these various treatments and dates straight. As far as I can
recall, I had my last MRI on May 12. On May 16 we met with Dr. Lee for the
results and found out that the tumor had unquestionably progressed, and I began
new treatments with something called Irinotecan.
To be honest, I haven't spent a lot of time studying up on this stuff. I
guess it is used primarily to treat people with rectal cancer and colon cancer,
but other types as well. My first treatment was an infusion that lasted about
three hours. I felt no ill effect until about two days afterward, but then the
chemo clobbered me hard. I did nothing but sleep for about five days, except
for the few hours each day when I was awake but couldn't remember much, like
what my cellphone was used for or who my best friend was. Then I began to emerge
from the drowsiness I felt. I gradually recovered my strength and felt pretty
good for the next two weeks.
This leads into my most recent checkup, which occurred on Friday, June 6. I
guess the best way to describe the news is good, with guarded optimism. We
learned that the sudden decline may have been due as much to the chemo as it may
have been to the tumor. Lee called it chemo brain. We also learned that it may
or may not happen again. That is often what we hear from the oncologist--may or
may not, possibly but we can't say for sure. I will need to get an injection on
Monday to help increase my white blood cell count, which was dramatically
lowered by the chemo.
Now for the really good news. Road Trip! Yes it's true, the eagerly awaited
Pam and Steve world tour 2014 kicks off on June 19, when we board a plane bound
for Chicago and parts unknown. A star-studded cast awaits your visit with
lustful anticipation. I sincerely hope my wish to enjoy the company of each and
every one of you is granted. I cannot think of any stronger juju that will make
me well again.
Love you all, can't wait to be with you again. Steve, Pam, (and Caroline
guarding Fort Bliss pending our safe return).
(Composed with loving care via Dragon!)
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