This latest trip to the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda didn't bring the news I'd hoped for. Because of the weakness and shortness of breath I've had for a few months, I was taken off the cancer meds December in hopes of determining the cause of my symptoms.
I went to NIH last month and underwent many tests to identify the problem, but nothing turned up as a definitive cause. Had a couple more tests this week, as well as my regular CT and PET scans. Unfortunately they show that the cancer has progressed, with new tumors and growth of the old ones. It was obvious I am worse, as I couldn't travel through the clinic without the use of a wheelchair and an assistant. The fatigue in my legs as well as the difficulty breathing and pounding pulse stop me in my tracks.
The doctors' conclusion is that the drugs have had a negative effect on my body, interfering with muscle control. Either that or the cancer itself is sending out chemicals attacking my body. Nasty, sneaky, hateful stuff!
At any rate, I am not continuing on the trial. They may try steroids for awhile to help perk me up, and then start on another drug that is sometimes effective in kidney cancer. Also, there will be a trial of a new drug starting in April, and I may qualify for that.
I'm hopeful that we will be able to get the cancer in check soon. Frank and I still plan to go to St. Augustine, Florida, for 10 days in March, and I'm hopeful that Caitlin and I can go on our "Senior Cruise" in the Mediterranean in June following her high school graduation. No, it's not a Carnival Cruise!
I can't walk much, so shopping and hiking are out, but I CAN read books and sew quilts, so I plan to do a lot of both! And visit with good friends. Planning on that, too.
I'll do an update when I know more.
Love,
Gayle
