Well after a pretty frightening week for our super hero...a biopsy..a pet scan..a ct scan of the abdomen..blood tests..an unwanted phone call..and the final results with a visit to the oncologist, Reenie is taking on the beast again. Reenie is set up for 6 cycles of chemotherapy that will last at least 6 months. The method of treatment will be different this time around, no surgery and no radiation, which is all good. We will battle this with chemo and an anti-angiogenic agent. I know thats a pretty big word for my limited vocabulary but from my understanding one of the most important words I've ever heard. An anti-angiogenic agent in this case AVASTIN is used to cut off the supply of oxygen and nutrients that feed the tumors, it also helps the chemo drugs reach the tumors more effectively. The chemo drug that Reenie will be on is ABRAXANE, this drug also has been explained to us as "user friendly" meaning it should have less side effects than most other chemo drugs. The fact that it is not a solvent-based drugs limits the side effects and allows for patients to receive higher doses of tumor fighting paclitaxel, another positive. We know this will not be picnic by any imagination, Reenie will undoubtedly feel fatigued, she will lose her hair again, chances are her white count could become lower and we need to be careful of infections, but all of this can and will be reversed once we have this beast under control. I was completely amased Monday with Reenie's attitude, spirit and courage as she was heading into the chemotheapy room, she has fought this battle before and knocked down the monster, but he's back and she is determined to knock it down and out for good. I firmly believe she has this fight because of the outpouring of support she has recieved from her family and friends and even from those that don't know her but know of her. That is where she gains strength and she will again call upon that support. So keep those prayers and well wishes coming....
Reenie sends her love to all
there is no doubt in my mind YOU will KICK CANCER to the curb AGAIN!!!!!You are one of the strongest person's I know.Love you!
ReplyDeleteReenie & Tom - I'm on board to help in the fight against the beast - what do you need/how can I help?
ReplyDeleteReen and Tom!
ReplyDeleteATTITUDE IS THE KEY!
The blog is a beautiful tribute to your love of each other! Our prayers are with all the Haas's!
LOVE,
the escherich's
Thanks so much for creating this site. Everyday we wonder how Reenie is doing and don't want to call if she isn't feeling up to talking. Thanks Tom! Reenie we love you and are here for you! The Roberts Family
ReplyDeleteBeating this thing is not an option and you are many people strong to help you fight. Love you both
ReplyDeleteI hope this big C knows what he's in for....he didn't lesson the first time???? Watch out for the Reenie Monster!!!!!!! Love you!
ReplyDeleteNicole
Reenie, You did it before and you can do it again....With all the prayers and good thoughts coming from so many friends. And I am sure you can feel all the love coming your way. Keep fighting little "warrior". Love to you and thanks Tom for giving me the opportunity to keep in touch. Pat Owens
ReplyDeleteReenie,
ReplyDeleteBest wishes for a quick successful round! You have a great family to back you up!
Love, Mary Pat(Owens)Reilly
Many thanks everyone for all the support & prayers, just keep 'em commin'. I am amazed at the number of people that are ready at the drop of a hat to help out.So thank u all in advance for everything you do for me.
ReplyDeleteThere may be some days that your comment on this blog will het me through the day so please leave a comment, I enjoy reading them.