Medical Tales of August

On Monday, Carol and I went for my regularly scheduled visit with the oncologist. Regarding the chemo drugs, the cancer essentially plateaued this month, with no significant increase or decrease. I am of the opinion that this type of chemotherapy has ceased being effective at fighting the cancer, and is actually doing my body harm with A-fib, shortness of breath, and other maladies of ilk. The evening prior, I had to go to ER with a serious A-fib episode, and the Wednesday following I received a transfusion, the third transfusion in as many months.

The doctor, however, is not ready to abandon this form of treatment. In all fairness, he needs to select a drug or drug combination that will effectively fight the cancer, while minimizing side effects such as those mentioned, or worse. Next weekend, Carol and I will go back to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN (aka "the Pool of Siloam") for the benefit of their insights on what treatment regime to use from here on.

Basically, everything is on hold until we hear what the Mayo Clinic has to say, and then get back with my local doctor. God continues to give us strength to do each day what He calls us to do, and we trust and rest in Him. Thanks as always for your love, encouragement, prayers and support.