New Treatment, New Side Effects
In my blog post from a few days ago, I let you know that cancer is still being an asshole to me at the moment. The oral chemo (see Cancer 101 for explanation, if needed) I’ve been on since March has curbed the growth of my cancer, but not stopped it or reduced the overall amount of cancer in my body. Earlier this week my doctor and I were still waiting for a few more test results to confirm that a treatment switch is the best course of action. Test results are in!
The results are not awful, but less than ideal. They confirm our initial understanding that cancer is still growing, albeit not quickly. At this point, my doctor has recommended another medication switch given this one is proving not to be effective for me. This is disappointing for a couple of reasons: 1. I’m by no means out of options, but this means there is one less tool in my toolkit for fighting cancer 2. New medication means learning new side effects and seeing how it affects my overall ability to manage a schedule.
I’ll be switching to a targeted treatment (see Cancer 101 for explanation, if needed) next week. It will be administered by IV every three weeks. Although it is not a chemotherapy, it sounds like my side effects will be similar. My first appointment is next Friday so I’ll let you know how it goes! I’m doing all I can to take care of myself and will continue to enjoy to my life as much as I am able in the meantime. This is the kind of uncertainty I live with daily and have learned to manage.
On a lighter note, I am going to be *crazy busy* hosting events as a Solano County Queen at Fiesta Days (see this blog post for an explanation of the significance) this weekend. I’ve included a schedule of the appearances I plan to be at below.
Northern California friends – Please come say “hi”. I would love to see lots of friendly faces. For everyone else, expect a blog post later this weekend to update you on the festivities and other fun updates on my advocacy work!
Fiesta Days: Ms. Vacaville Appearances:
- Saturday, May 28, 2017
- 10am: Fiesta Days Parade – Float #20/21
- 2pm: Car Show
- 2:30-5pm: Andrews Park/Main Stage to present Parade awards and judge the Whiskeroo contest
- 5pm: Kid Zone for Danc-Sing Studio Showcase
- Sunday, May 29, 2017
- 8:30-11am: Diaper Derby
- 1-4:30pm: Andrews Park/Main Stage to sell raffle tickets and judge the Jalepeno & Onion Eating Contests
- Monday, May 30, 2017:
- 10:30am: Memorial Day Service
For detailed location information, please see the Fiesta Days website. Hope to see you there!