The cleaning crew was arriving when we were finally escorted into Dr. C's office at 5:15pm for our 4pm appointment. At least they have a good variety of snacks to choose from, and it gave Mom and I time to plan our trip to the seven wonders of the world.
When we were finally in there, we were given his full attention. He'd clearly already breezed over Mom's file, we filled in some blanks, and he would consult her chart on the computer every so often.
He didn't say anything we didn't already know, but it was how he reiterated the information that had an effect on us.
Off the bat, he scored points with us because a) he just happened to finish writing an article on adjunctive chemotherapy in transitional cell cancers, b) he also has an extra ureter from one kidney, and c) French is his primary language- he's Lebonese.
What was made abundantly clear to us, is that if Mom does not do chemotherapy now, and the cancer comes back later on, it could have spread, and will therefor be much harder to treat. He threw out some unattractive statistics that I just let go in one ear and out the other, and then docked him one point.
He wasn't pushing chemo necessarily, but that was the message we both took home.
His Against Chemo Criteria: Mom's had a rough recovery, there is no lymph node involvement, she has had a difficult time keeping her creatinine within normal limits, and that there is little evidence in cases such as hers.
His Pro Chemo Criteria: This is grade T-3, she is young & healthy, this could ultimately prolong her life, and worse comes to worse and her left kidney freaks out after the first cycle, she can stop.
He didn't seem at all concerned about her high blood pressure, therefor that should not be a factor in Mom's decision. The only thing we need to really assess before she makes her decision is her kidney function.
As Mom put it, she can't be at peace until she knows she is using every tool in her toolbox to kick this cancer's booty. She didn't actually say booty, but you get the point.
Monday, I'll speak with Dr. D at St. Frannie, find out what her kidney function looked like as of Tuesday, and have a conversation about what we discussed wtih Dr. C.
Mom is clearly scared, and is having a hard time mustering up that "go get 'em" attitude, because in her mind the decision is made, and chemo is a reality. That's where I hope you all, her near and dear will come in. She needs to hear it from the people around her, especially those of you who have survived the unknown. It can be done!
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2 comments:
So Liz and Monica - It sounds like a good case is being made for Chemo. Until that appointment, I would have suggested you pass on Chemo for now and safeguard that kidney.
Perhaps the compromise is in how long can you safely delay chemo? Can you safely postpone for30 or 60 days? What you want is to start chemo when you are strong and at the top of your game.
Also find out from the docs, online from cancer centers and from other cancer patients, what are the side effects and reactions to the specific chemo you would be taking and the treatment approach?
Since you would not be getting Chemo daily, maybe the side effects will be less offensive. I had daily Chemo with 2 different kinds on some days and stilled did well mostly because I started off in good shape.
Liz -It's still your call.
You might want to spend a little time investigating alternative treatments to Chemo. I am discovering some treatments that are less invasive and have been successful with some patients.
Investigate how they would treat your situation in Europe. Our medical society is very closed minded about considering alternative or new approaches if those treatments have not been approved exactly the way the US and FDA approaches it.
What would be the approach with Eastern Medicine, your know the medicine that has been around for 500 or more years, but many still call it alternative.
Become an investigative reporter these next few weeks. You might even be able to enroll some assistants to conduct some research.
I am around and available to brainstorm with you, in CT through Jan. 23rd and then by phone from FL after that.
Margot (the chaos coach)
PS Remember our greatest enemy is fear. Being bold, positive, optimistic and writiing our own outcome is the way to go. Not to mention that it is much more pleasant than those awful statistics that don't necessarily apply to us as individuals.
Liz and Monica:
I'll be with you both in spirit tomorrow as you begin your Chemo regimen. We all have something to say; be it from first-hand experience or having helped others through it. You've done your research, listened to all the medical and other advice, and made an educated decision (one I agree with for whatever that's worth).
The bottom line is that there is no wrong answer - only the answer that is best for you!
It sounds like you are stronger physically, tolerating food, and well enough to begin to really kick cancer's butt!! If you get sick, just think of it as tossing cancer's cookies right out of your body - literally!
Love ya!
Lissa
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