Well, we finally had to opportunity to meet with Amanda's new Hematologist on Monday. Dr. Peters seems to be a very confident lady. More importantly, Amanda was actually animated and communicating with her during our appointment! She is definitely on the ball and quickly answered many of our questions that we never felt were fully explained to us over the past few months. In short, we really like this doctor...very confident and easy to talk to! (The GOOD!)
Much of the visit was spent discussing how we were going to approach Amanda's severe reaction to the Chemo. One of our discussion points was to consider having Amanda hospitalized for 24 hours after treatment to at least ensure that she was properly hydrated afterwards. As it is, we are luck to get more than a cup of fluid down her in the first 24 hours and this is, quite frankly, not good. After some discussion, Dr. Peters decided that she wanted to try to be more aggressive on the days leading up to the treatment day. She prescribed Ativan (Lorazepam) and Zofran for 24 hours before treatment to try and treat the "anticipatory" nausea that Amanda is definitely experiencing. She also wants to see how well the Emend controls things if Amanda is able to get the initial dose prior to treatment as designed. In addition she prescribed a re-flux medication in hopes that this might also be to source of some of her problems. As a "carrot", Dr. Peters is arranging to see Amanda before the next treatment (usually Amanda only sees the doctor at the first treatment of each cycle. ..the doctor's nurse sees her before the last treatment of each cycle) to see how she reacted to the treatment and to reassess; including consideration of admitting her for treatment. (The OK!)
Turns out this doctor takes a more aggressive approach to treating Amanda's condition. Her protocol, especially as Amanda had "B" symptoms and the high ESR (>90), is for 6 cycles of ABVD Chemo. That means we are looking at an additional 6 treatments rather than just 2. Although we did not get a clear sense of whether this was going to be her final approach, every indication is that this is the new plan. Amanda was PISSSSED! Let's just say that she would not talk to either parent on the trip home. (The UGLY!)
In the end, we have to take the approach that her treatment is being led by the Spirit. Too many unusual things have occurred to lead us to this doctor (I mean we had a long time Alberta Health official tell us that she NEVER had seen a doctor changed so fast in her life). God knows what is needed for her to fight this battle successfully, and if that means enduring another 2 months of treatment...so be it. At least she will be alive. Good news is that it looks like Amanda has come to terms with this and seems to be in good spirits...
...Chemo on Friday
Not surprised by this turn of events--you said she wasn't really where they wanted her when they checked her at the half way point. Other doctor would probably ordered more chemo after the final testing, so this is probably kinder in the long run. Can't imagine thinking you were through only to be told "NO" you need more. Our hearts are with you ALL! Mom
ReplyDeleteYeah...some of us are still in denial...me (lol). We will know more when we see the new doctor on the 3rd. Weird thing is that she is talking about 4 rounds and then the PET CT, but that test is scheduled for 3 weeks after her last treatment. If they are continuing with treatment, then she would get the first one of round 5 before the test. I don't know, kinda confusing, but I am sure we will clear things up shortly. Think part of the issue is this doctor is still trying to wrap her head around Amanda's case
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