Friday, October 26, 2012

Time for a little concern

I had an appointment with my Dana Farber oncologist late Wednesday afternoon and it appears the trial drug is not a magic bullet for me.  While all my other lab results are really good except that I am a little bit anemic, my tumor markers have risen from 101 to 126.  It's a disturbing trend, and there has not been any downward turn at all with this drug.  I've been on it for about 9 weeks.  I go back again on November 16th; and unless my tumor markers have reversed direction, it will be time to discuss the next treatment plan.  I'm disappointed, but it is what it is. 

The next likely treatment plan will include carboplatin.  The platinum drugs have been proven to be effective against ovarian cancer, and triple negative breast cancer is similar genetically.  It won't be an easy regime - hair loss, nausea, low blood counts - pretty much the same as last summer's Adriamycin, Cytoxan and Taxol treatment.  But I'd like to try and give it a knockout blow while I have the physical and emotional strength to do it. 

It's possible Dr. Chen may have other ideas.  There are many clinical trials and she may think that one of them is a good fit.  So we'll have to talk about the pro's and con's of my options.  In the meantime, I'm in a bit of a scary holding pattern. 

11 comments:

  1. I agree with Christine, Michelle. This is very scary. I'm hoping with your next appt. you get on that other drug if at all possible. I don't know what to say other than I continue to hold you in the light and am sending love to you.

    Kathleen

    ReplyDelete
  2. I hope Dr. Chen comes up with something good. Keeping you on my prayer chain.

    Elaine

    ReplyDelete
  3. I am sorry to hear the CA 27-29 markers are up again.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I'm sorry Michelle. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm sure it's scary, but you're such a fighter and strong person. I wish my mom was here to give you some of the great support you gave her.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Michelle, I'm so sorry to read this. Hoping you come up with another plan.

    linda

    ReplyDelete
  6. I'm so sorry to hear this Michelle. I hope they will find something for you that knocks the cancer on it's ass.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Crapity Crap but glad there are more options

    ReplyDelete
  8. Oh Michelle! I just read this, after I sent out my last message on our blog. Darn, darn, darn....

    How much difference does one marker make? Is it possible that this trial study drug is working to slow things down? You have a lot to study and go over for the next round of drug treatments. It is disappointing and scary for you. I understand. I care...we care....

    See you Monday!

    Phototaker

    ReplyDelete
  9. I really don't know what to say. I wish I had something encouraging to say.

    I know you are probably the strongest person I know right now. You have always been encouraging to me.

    Try your hardest and live life to the fullest. enjoy your loving family. You have much to give and part of that is happy memories for your family.

    Kevin

    ReplyDelete
  10. Michelle: Thoughts with you as always. You have always been such an inspiration to me on BCO - whatever your outcome, however scary I just know that you'll find your warrior spirit and if need be another plan can work for you. Love and hugs xx
    Tazzy (Michele)

    ReplyDelete