For once I can say things are going to plan — the revised plan, that is. Leslie’s first infusion of chemotherapy back in July hit her hard (see last post). So her medical oncologist changed the protocol. She’s now getting a full dose of chemo, but in thirds over a three-week period: one-third this Thursday, one-third next Thursday and the final third in the third week. Then a week off and do it again.
There are some issues with side effects but she’s not debilitated like back in July. We were able to go to church on Sunday, then out for dinner Sunday evening. And she helped me do grocery shopping yesterday. Her hemoglobin (red blood cells) is much better.
Each infusion begins on a Thursday about 7:30 a.m. with a blood test and a visit with Dr. Schwartz, the oncologist. The infusion is generally finished between 12:30 and 1 p.m., and we go to one of our favorite Weston-area restaurants for lunch.
Last Thursday was an off week because Leslie completed Dose Three on September 14. This week she begins Dose Four with 4.1 on Thursday. If all goes according to the new plan, the final infusion will be on December 7. Then we head to Nashville to spend Christmas with Stephanie and her two cats.
The next big decision is whether to have radiation therapy after the chemotherapy is done. Leslie is still gathering information on that option, but right now we both believe radiation could do more harm than good. The decision on that will come later. There’s no rush.
Meanwhile, I was able to go home early this month for a little over two weeks to get the house ready for our next set of house/cat sitters. Many, many thanks to Catya and Dany, now good friends, for their efforts. Long-time friends Susan and Rex are living in our house now and being a great help. Gracias!
Leslie’s sisters Laura and Cathy took turns taking care of Leslie while I was gone, and Stephanie made another long-weekend visit. For a few days, all four of them were together, and I think they had way too much fun!
More later!
Ex-pats in Mexico 