January 10 - Topetecan Dose #2 is a SUCCESS

After my 2nd blood transfusion last week, my RBCs and my platelette counts are finally high enough to have the 2nd dose of Topetecan. My main oncologist is also finally back from vacation, so I feel in much better hands. She always makes me feel positive about the approach we are taking.

She suggests that we lower the Topetecan dosages a little bit because it appeared to bring my platelettes counts down so low (I know I cannot spell that word). She suggests that at this rate I would only be getting one dose of Topetecan a month which is not going to be effect enough to fight the beast before me.

I also received an Aranesp shot to keep my RBCs up. Since my port had already been accessed for the CBC reading earlier in the day, I only spent one hour in the chemo room. My friend, and former Nannny Jean took me to the hospital initially and kept me company until 1pm. Then my friend Jackie Pepe accompanied me for the chemo. It is always nice to have company. It makes the time go so much quicker and allows you to catch up with the real world.

This coming Wednesday I will have my first infusion of Avastin which I am anxiously waiting for, as this is the new anti-angiogenesis drug shown to have had success with recurrent cervical cancer. Please keep me in your prayers on these days especially.

Although this entry appears positive, I am still in a lot of pain. I am on very strong narcotics just to get through the day. Nights are very hard. Today, however, has been my best day yet, nevertheless. Either the meds are starting to work, or better yet, maybe the Topetecan is shrinking the tumor. Either way, I will accept this pain relief. Hopefully this will continue until the can function a bit on my own.

That's all for now. Thanks for checkin' on me.