Chemo

I spoke to Dr. B this afternoon. He looks like the actor on the West Wing who took over Josh's job, but with longer hair. A complete 180 degree turn from Dr. S. He talked about chemo drugs that I'd never heard of, so of course 90% of my questions went right out the window. But we talked about shrinking the tumor rather than the all-or-nothing tone of curing outright. He was very encouraging and had loads of positive energy. I like him.

So, on May 11th, I'll start on a Carboplatin IV in the chemo clinic. If I don't get sick, I'll have ten sessions, once very three weeks along with 2 Xeloda tablets a day. I probably won't lose my hair, and nausea will be kept to a minimum.

I asked about possible negative interactions with Chinese herbal remedies. He said their hasn't been any definitive proof of herbal remedies helping or hurting, basically leaving it up to me. I haven't decided yet. But I think I will be starting acupuncture soon for pain management.

It was a really good appointment. I'm feeling a little tired, but also a little hopeful.