Wednesday, August 31, 2011

One Tired Puppy

The ever-popular post-decadron insomnia reared its ugly head last night.  I fell asleep after 4:30AM, and woke at 7AM.  On the plus side, I read two books last night. :)


My hands are getting a bit tingly today, and a little red, but I took my B6, and keep putting a ton of lotion on 'em, as directed.


I am really, really weak today.  The walker is my friend, and I have to remember NOT to get up from a sit too quickly.  I got horribly dizzy once today; I'd rather not repeat that, thank you. ;)


So, I found some stats for my type of clinical trial on the internet, though it's the British Phase I and II Trial stats.  These are definitely the numbers my oncologist quoted to me when he was reading up on it. It made for interesting reading.  If you can get through the regimen, the results are damned good.  But less than 35% of the subjects can make it through six rounds before the toxicity becomes too much for them. They lost one patient before they could even start the trial.  Most of the six round patients have made it to 10 months of survival.  I am currently at 11 months myself. :)   It would be QUITE lovely to get another ... oh... 10-20-... 60(!) more months.  Yep, I am optimistic.


If you want to see what's up with this trial, here are the stats from the British Trials


I got to speak with my manager today and told him I was SO ready to come back to work.  I am scheduled to be back on October 18th if I can get the OK from my oncologist.  Happily I can telecommute most days, but I surely would love to spend at least one day a week at the plant.  Gosh, I miss everyone so much.


Hugs to all, and remember that every day is a gift.  Just look for the wrapping paper and bows; you'll find 'em if you look!

2 comments:

  1. T, I have spent a few hours catching up on your blog today...holy guacamole..what a wild ride, my dear! Jon keeps me up to date on most things, but it isn't the same as hearing your voice through your posts. Stay optimistic, honey! If anyone can beat the odds, T, it is surely you. I know I haven't written for some time, but I think of you (and the family!) every day, with much love, and you have provided inspiration for me on many dark days. I am working on possible new living arrangements for my mom in the future (assisted living or nursing care), looking into places near me. Thank the gods for my fabulous therapist, who is accompanying me on visits to the top contenders to help me evaluate them. Hopefully, Jon and I can make it out to AZ later this year. I have some snazzy new canes to show off, heh :). Rebel Canes -- check em' out sometime. I have one with flames on it, got it because it reminded me of you (those wonderful flames on the old car!). I am doing pretty good right now -- things seem to be stable and I think we are closer to an official diagnosis (other than ill-defined mixed connective tissue disease + osteoarthritis). Eagerly awaiting lovely Fall in IL! My favorite season. Ok or now -- must get a nap in before I face plant on the IPad :). Will write again later. Love you, T! Many hugs and kisses and good juju to you and all the family. Michelle

    ReplyDelete
  2. I'm so excited to hear from you, Michelle! I'm looking forward to fall and those chilly 90 degree days. :D

    Jon says you guys are coming for a visit, hopefully in November when it's not so hot. I can't wait to see you and give you a big fat hug and kiss!!!

    I hope you find the perfect situation for your mom. We'd have been in the same boat, were it not for Jane and Nancy taking care of our mom in her last days.

    Well, I love you, tons! And I'm so excited about your upcoming visit!

    ReplyDelete

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