bad news but theres still a positive

[jsbach]

well I had my unscheduled ct scan this morning. The results came back showing a few more lesions in the liver. The main tumor on the pancreas hasn't changed. To say that this was hard to hear would be an understatement. To then get told that I wasn't responding to the gemcitibine was harder still and as a result that avenue of treatment would now stop. BUT talking to my oncologist, it's not the end of the world. Apparently all it really means is that I am now part of a group who don't responsd to gemcitibine. I have a meeting with my oncologist on Tuesday to discuss the new treatment plan. I can't remember the name of the concoction, but it's a combination of three drugs and is used extensivy in Europe and the US. My onc actually suggested it to start with. She is also going to combine with a new product that, putting it into really simple terms, helps the chemo target the specific areas and delivers a bigger kick in the bum. The other good thing will be that it's only once a fortnight anot every week. So, while there was bad news today, it's not the end of the world. There's still hope and I am in a fighting mood. take care all, Tim

[wombat4]

Hi Tim Sorry to hear of your bad news, news like this can get you down at times.My wife had liver lesions and the Folfox regime certainly helped in reducing the size. One was 118mm as a sphere when found, the treatment reduced it to half as well as reducing the other 2 lesions in size. Read up any possible side effects with the new treatment and put things in place that will help you with them. Good luck with the new treatment, and stay in your fighting mood. wombat4

[jsbach]

Thanks for the info wombat. I've had a quick look up of things and am now a little confused as everything reads that it takes 2 days to administer. The hospital (and oncologist) was telling me that part of it was in oral form.

[#4]

Tim Sorry to hear the bad news. I guess they are offering something along these lines; http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/280605-treatment#aw2aab6b6b2 If I am right, it's a standard approach. I know you have not asked for an opinion or suggestion and I am in no position to provide an advice of any sort because I am unqualified person for this medical condition. However, from our experience and experimentation with various approaches we have undertaken during the last 12 months we, both have concluded that reinforcement and continuous strengthening of the immune system rather than relentless bombardment with cocktails of powerful and destructive drugs was/is the choice we preferred. So far, it worked very well. I know your situation is different and that you will most likely continue with what your oncologist offers. Even if you do that you still can continue working on your immune system yourself (at home). I have documented everything; progression, success rate, treatment etc. Whether she was lucky or it was her discipline, we will never know but it worked so far, and we hope it remains the same. Again, many good wishes and good luck!

[SILLY]

Hope all goes well.