Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Round Two of Chemotherapy

Yesterday, I had my second allergic reaction to a taxol based drug. The doctors at Beth Israel were able to administer the carboplatin which is an important part of the chemotherapy. However, they would feel better giving me another version of the taxol in a more controlled environment. So my care will be transferred within the Harvard Cancer Center to Dana Farber Center. I will be under the care of an allergist and an oncologist. The taxol based drugs have been very effective in stopping the cancer in advanced stages, so they really don't want to give up on the best possible treatment for me, which I appreciate.

I feel good today...a little tired but not bad, all things considered. I went for a nice walk this morning with the dog and had a little nap. What more can a girl ask for? I have been the fortunate recipient of all your lovely cards, letters, and boxes of goodies. Very much appreciated!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!! Now for this broccoli craving I have....

6 comments:

Dinah said...

Hi Maura,
Thinking of you and broccoli. Nice to hear it! Broccoli is delicious food and food is good for you right now..lot's of food!
I like mine with a little mayo!
Am also hearing the facts about chemo and how you are accepting it or not. They will find a way! I'm sure... This business has been around for a good long time now; Glad they are using the clinics that are on top of your case!
Was thinking of you on monday..and here we are it's wednesday..
The weather has been so lovely, I too took a walk yesterday and could smell every flowering plant..in East Orleans.. I made sure to walk extra slow..so I could absorb all the scents!
love ya!
di

katharine perkins said...

Hi Maura,
Sorry I phoned you at a lousy time on Tuesday. I thought you might be just sitting there reading magazines as the IV concoction drips, drips, drips.... Oh well; a lot I know! I'm glad Bill was there with you. It sounds like the team is still working on a treatment plan? (the chemo combo) Or am I not up to date on the plan of action. You are one heck of a good sport to put up with all this allergy-related stuff. And now you like broccoli? Hope to see you soon.
Much love, Kate

Anonymous said...

Hi Maura,
Robert and I biked three different years for the Dana Farber Cancer Foundation (Sturbridge to PTown)~ they'll treat you right. I am so glad you're getting the best of care.
Keep eating those greens - you always liked vegetables!
Nonquitt will be well organized with your help of your sisters-you'll enjoy it a lot.
I have 2.5 days left of SY 07-08, hard to believe. Tomorrow is field day-the students and I strategized on placement for our team members to participate in the baton relay pass.
Hi to all,
love,
Cassy

Unknown said...

Hi Maura,
Cassy was kind enough to route me to your site....I have been thinking about you and have now gotten up to speed on your treatment. You sound amazing and positive..It sounds like you are getting good solid care and I am certain they will work out the allergic reactions. Charlie and I both send our love...stay strong. Wendy

Kay Howe said...

Dear Maura,
Christopher Awtrey's parents are our oldest friends...we went to the hospital when Christopher was born and the two families went on many ski vacations together.

As you know, Chris is a wonderful, caring young man and you are in good hands.

I will keep tabs on you via this blog...thank you for writing it.

Love, Kay Howe

Will S. said...

Maura:


Sorry to hear that you had a second reaction. I hope that you will have better luck with the addition of the allergist. What reaction did you have?
We have had a nice time with Barrand and Jeremy. We went for a very gentle paddle in the kayak for an hour and a half. A short steep hike and after they came back from Denali we went on a glacier day cruise. Some great calving action where the glaciers hit the ocean. Big splashes. We had a little extra luck in that department. We hope to see Steve and Jeremy one more time before they leave. They are currently in Seward.
The folks arrived yesterday and send their best. As does Beth.
Hope this works out for you. Thanks for keeping us up to date.
Best to Perk and kids.

Love

Will & Beth