Deb's Latest Update - 10/2/2009

Well, I've finished my stereotactic body radiation therapy to the one "growing" tumor in my left lung. That was definitely one of the easiest things I've had to endure. But, it is good to be finished. I met with Dr. Wang, Radiation Oncologist, today. It was just a one-month followup. He didn't order any tests so we don't know if the radiation worked yet or not. It can take a couple of months for the radiation to complete its work on the tumor. I guess it is slowing finishing it off!!

I met with Dr. Fabian, my Oncologist, on Wednesday. She explained that it usually takes 6 weeks before you can see the results on a CT of the SBRT (radiation). So, she scheduled a CT in 3 weeks. Hopefully we'll be able to see some results then.

I started back up my Xeloda (oral chemotherapy), Tykerb (small molecule targeted therapy oral medication), and Herceptin (intravenous tri-weekly injections, also a targeted therapy). This is the regimen that appears to work best at keeping everything small and stable. This last tumor grew when I went off this treatment for the summer. I must say though.... my vacations and time in the sun were worth it!! But, hopefully by getting back on this combination, we have kept things stable once again. We'll find out in three weeks.

At that time, we will have to make some decisions as to future treatments. I assume I will just stay on the current regimen. But, I guess Dr. Fabian wants to reassess after this latest tumor growth. There is one other drug that according to my last biopsy in December 2007 that will work well on my cancer. I actually took it back in 2003. So, we may take that if she sees a need.

I am still considering getting another opinion. I trust my doctor completely, but as with anything there are about a million ways I can go with this. I really think that we have to take this opportunity to get rid of this while we can. So, I am thinking more and more about finding some clinical trials to look into. But, those things aren't the easiest to find or understand (too much medical mumbo jumbo!) It would be nice if there was just a simple list showing the best of the best when it comes to breast oncologists and breast cancer centers. I know there are several, but the best has to be the best for a reason! I guess it is just hard to measure who that truly is.

As you are probably aware, this month is Breast Cancer Awareness month. I hope that for all my friends and family, I serve as your wake-up call to do your self exams and get your mammograms!!

Thanks as always for your thoughts and prayers.

Deb