Well we have our new treatment and next course of action to tame the beast. Today we had our second dose of the chemotherapy regiment of Gemzar and Avastin. Gemzar is the newest chemo drug for our warrior who two weeks ago had an allergic reaction to Ixtempra. The roller coaster ride we hopped on a few weeks ago doesn't seem to want to stop anytime soon. Last week during our visit with the oncologist he explained how he wanted to handle our latest development of increased cancer cell activity, yes he was concerned that this monster had found away around the treatment of Abraxane that only weeks ago looked miraculous. This creature is aggressive, mean and somewhat smart, he has found a new pathway and we need to stop it's progress. Our oncologist will continue using a combination of targeted drugs which cuts off blood supply to the cells and chemo drugs which kills fast growing cells. The team (doctors,nurses,family and friends) are staying positive we will find the right combination and kill this freaking monster once and for all. We do have a biopsy scheduled for Thursday, this will verify the cancer cell makeup, we have had 2 different cancers to date and we need to positively identify the makeup of what really is the 3rd occurrence of cancer. There is no doubt that this latest turn of events has been worrisome, but our confidence is not shattered and Reenie's strength is mind blowing. I can't even explain or know what she must be feeling and dealing with as far as all the emotions she is going through daily..the unknown...the pain..the thoughts..the dreams and nightmares..I cry for her each day..but I also pray for her each day... and I believe each day.. that we will beat this. Growing up I probably thought I was tough, well I might not have won a lot of fights but I could take a punch, I would stand in there with anyone...but I know I don't have half the strength that our beautiful pink warrior has...she really is an inspiration...I am inspired each and every day.
The positive from treatment this week is that Reenie has tolerated the Gemzar so far, no allergic reaction, and its hard to say for sure but the visible bumps and marks have stayed about the same for the last few days where a week or more ago we could see the spreading of cells take place...so it may be that this new drug is already suppressing the growth....thanks to our family and friends, your support is unwavering and it is amazing the love you have bestowed on our family..the Haas'
Debbie has a very nice pair of pink boxing gloves we would be more than happy to let you borrow so you can beat the living crap out of this monster. It worked for Debbie. Prayers are great -- and we keep Reenie in ours every day--but don't hold back on just kicking the snot out of this thing with everything you've got. Stay positive; stay determined; lean on the sisterhood for inspiration when you need it. We're here for you. -The Markhams
ReplyDeleteKeep fighting Reenie! We're with you! We love you and pray every day.
ReplyDeletexoxo,
Candi & Eric
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ReplyDeleteTom you are so right.Reen the strength you have shown is indescribable.I have said it before and I will say it again you are my hero! But Tom don't sell yourself short,Reen is able to push through this because of your love and support. You guys are a team,a WINNING team. Soon you will be crossing the finish line cancer free and we will all be there to cheer you on."Keep Fighting Like a Girl!"
ReplyDeleteReen there's more than one way to kill a beast and you're going to find it! I pray for you every day. Love, nancy.
ReplyDeleteKeep on fightin' Reen, your team of warriors stand behind you every step of the way. No one fights as fericiously and with such dignity, grace. I love you:) Denise
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