New treatment

It has been several months since I last posted. Back in April, the doctor and I decided that I would take a break from treatment, as the treatment I was on seemed to no longer be slowing the growth of the cancer. I also wanted a couple of months break to finish the school year and to get back my strength, before beginning a new cycle of treatment. I am thankful for the extended time I got to spend in the classroom and the chance to go home and visit my family in Maine, while not actively in treatment.

On Friday, I began a new treatment regimen. The new treatment uses the drug irinotecan, which has wreaked havoc on my gastrointestinal system in the past, and a new drug erbitux. I was at the cancer center for 7 and a half hours, but I didn't have to bring home the 5-FU pump home for two days anymore, so that was a plus.

So far, I am doing alright in terms of keeping the nausea under control with the medications that I have. I'd appreciate prayer that the more severe side effects will not manifest or will be more mild than in the past. Usually, those GI symptoms didn't become an issue for 4-6 into the treatment. I am worried about my ability to resume working in August, if the symptoms aren't more manageable this time around. Also, the erbitux can a really severe acne-like rash all over the body. I have medication that is meant to prevent that, and so far I haven't noticed anything, but it sounds like it can be a pretty dramatic reaction.

I don't know exactly what the Lord has in store for me over the next few months, but I have already received tangible signs of His provision in the event that I have to stop working. I am hopeful that I will be able to work more often without the pump, and that we can keep the other side effects under control, but if not, I am confident that the Lord will be with me, whatever the circumstances.

Thank you for continuing to keep me in your thoughts and prayers and for reaching out to me, even when I am bad about updating this blog. I really do appreciate it!