Appointment with Medical Oncologist

Wednesday 26, November, 2008

This morning I decided to get dressed up for the occasions. I did my hair, put on my make-up and put on my new boobs (well the temporary ones anyway). We got to the General just in time to fill out forms and the receptionist was nice enough to fax my bank disability forms.
Next, we saw the medical oncologist, nice enough and doesn’t beat around the bush, which was nice. After going over my medical history and pathology report, we decided that I needed 6 rounds of chemo. Because of the cancer spreading to the majority of my lymph nodes and tested positive for creeping outside the nodes, the cancer could be anywhere. So, the first 3 cycles (FEC) are a bit mild but the last 3 (taxatere) is the heavy duty one. Apparently, this is the most common treatment method. At some point during the cycles, I’m going to need a drug called Nulastin to boost the white blood cell counts; the damn thing costs $2,700 each x3, holy crap. I’m lucking enough to have double drug coverage and I’ll use my Amex so at least I can get some cash back from my charges.
She wants to start me around mid-December, as I need day surgery to have a port-a-cath installed. It’s a little thing that sits under your skin in your chest and has direct access to my veins. She offered up the PICC line, which is an IV that stays in you for 6 months…no thanks, I have small kids that would play with it, too risky. She mentioned that this is the busiest time of year, so I might have the day surgery in small country hospital in Perth, hey if it gets me in faster, I’m okay with that.
I’m still waiting for the results of the hormone tests, as this will effect other treatment options but won’t delay the first couple rounds.
After my appointment, I met a friend from the Soo, whose son is in Intensive Care at CHEO. I tell you after seeing the sick babies and kids in that area, my heart was breaking and my problems seem so minor in comparison. At least, I got to take her out for lunch, so she won't have to eat more hospital food. I sure hope the lil guy gets better soon.
So I have a few more appointments before chemo actually starts but guaranteed that I will be bald before Christmas. Santa better bring me a nice wig!