kinder, gentler chemo
Our visit at the oncologist this morning was…OK. The tumors are still growing. Slowly.
So, switch meds again. Mark and I (and many of you!) had braced ourselves for the chemo mentioned during our last visit. And chemo it is, but not like before. I’ll have an oral chemotherapy that is FAR gentler than the “shock and awe” chemotherapy I had in 2003-04. I can’t remember the name of it and I dropped off the prescription, but it starts with an X.
The side effects are mostly on the skin. They do not, I repeat, do not include hair loss or nausea. So, Mark will have a spouse this summer–rather than a shadow of me walking around the house in my pajamas (crying) bringing back images of chemo past. And Zoe who will have a mom to play with. And really, that’s all we really wanted. For me to stay me.
We will find out in a few months if this medication is effective. If it is, I will stay on it as long as it remains effective. We’re hoping for years.
Mark and I are so grateful for all of the prayers that have been offered on our behalf. When we are tossed between anxiety and peace, your prayers anchor us. Thank you.
And now, I’m off to get some attention paid to the hair I’ve neglected thinking it would be headed down the drain. Hey, if I get to keep it, I better be nice to it!
May 22nd, 2008 at 3:07 pm
We so appreciate the updates. Thank heavens for the kinder gentler chemo!
We think of you often! Karen and Gerry R
May 22nd, 2008 at 3:50 pm
((HUGS))
May 22nd, 2008 at 4:54 pm
We’re still prayin’.
May 22nd, 2008 at 5:54 pm
Still sending them up! It will be a great summer. And good luck on your run!
May 22nd, 2008 at 7:55 pm
thanks so much for posting an update . . . I checked often today to hear if there was any news. I am so encouraged by your positive spirit, and pray that you will continue to feel peace, elusive though it may be at times. And may this be THE drug that does the trick, for many, many years.
May 22nd, 2008 at 8:18 pm
Honey/Tash . . . here we are out in Colorado, but having been in the car all day, I prayed often for good report. I am thankful for “kinder, gentler chemo” and so thankful for your positive attitude. I agree . . . take care of that hair, girl! Continued blessings from above and our continued prayers. Love to you - Louise
May 23rd, 2008 at 6:54 am
Tash,
I so admire your wisdom. You really are inspirational about how to go through challenges.
From a member of your Atlanta fan club,
Maureen
May 23rd, 2008 at 6:55 am
yah, tash. so happy for a great summer ahead. and so happy that you will not let becci touch your hair again. just pay the money honey. drive safely today.
janice
May 25th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
Please tell me you followed Jane’s advice to “just pay the money, honey!”
Post a picture, Brown-eyed Girl!”
Waiting to see. . .
June 22nd, 2008 at 2:15 pm
If it had to be chemo news, this is GOOD news…you are so often in my thoughts and continue to be in my prayers as well as that little girl of yours who looks nothing like you (ha). I pray He gives you a wonderful summer Tasha!