on Sunday morning Jim spoke with his oncologist who told him that the treatments will continue indefinitely. This news wasn't such a surprise to me (the realist) but it was a blow to Jim (the optimist).
Jim had sent an email several days earlier asking for the plan,explaining how difficult the recovery is becoming and hoping that next Monday's chemo would be his last. In fact, I had him temper his remarks slightly because he was adamant that he couldn't take it much longer.
Dr. Rios said that he will need 2 more sessions of the regimen he is on now prior to our Houston trip Feb 1 for scans. THEN it is POSSIBLE that the length of time between chemos will be increased BUT a modified form of the treatment (maintenance) will continue indefinitely.
We are grateful that the drugs have kept the cancer at bay and that he has responded to treatment but after being declared cancer free (with all that implies) further treatment is a bitter pill to swallow (literally).
Living with cancer is better than the alternative but believe me it is not easy. I have spoken with several group members in the past 2 weeks who are similarly discouraged at the prospect of the relentless side-effects that accompany the very treatments which are keeping them alive. Pray for encouragement for all of those traveling this path, and for patience and understanding for their caregivers.
As I pray for those who lost loved ones to cancer last December and those who have lost someone this year, I am so thankful to have Jim here still--even though we have to plan our celebrations around chemo.
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