A couple medical updates and lots of Ohio Valentine love

Hi, friends. I received my second dose of chemo yesterday, which included gemcitabine (which I got last week and experienced a few side effects of nausea and headaches but managed it relatively well). The treatment yesterday also included docetaxel, which typically has stronger effects. And I had an allergic reaction. :(

Fortunately, I’m doing okay now! Our nurse was in the room after administering the infusion, and in 5 mins I felt tightness in my chest, saw stars, and then felt my face get red and puffy, and felt lots of pressure in my cheeks and ears. It was pretty scary, but the nurse acted quickly, stopped the chemo, and gave me steroids. They are prepared for this because it does happen on occasion. I felt pretty emotional because I was worried an important treatment option was being ruled out, but they were able to try again! They slowed down the drip so it would take 2 hrs instead of 1. This (along with the steroids) helped stop my body from freaking out. There was no reaction the second try, and we emptied that chemo bag! So that was a major relief. We may have to make some changes with future infusions, but hoping it all works out. Liam was with me and was super calm and supportive amidst a scary situation. 

The other news I have to report is discouraging: the PET scan results from my Feb 7 scan indicated that 2 new tumors are growing in my pelvis (about 2.5 cm each). We don’t think they were there during the surgery on Jan 11. It is clear this cancer is very aggressive, but at least after getting the scan results last week, we were able to walk directly across the hallway to start chemo. I’ll get a scan March 24 to see if the tumors have responded to 2 cycles of the treatment.

It was difficult to see those new tumors on the scan, but we’re feeling good about my medical team and all the support we’re receiving from friends and family. We appreciate you all so much.

Liam’s brother Shane and his partner Rebecca were here this past week, providing lots of awesome help. They were here for Nora’s 2nd birthday on Valentine’s Day, which was really special. Nora is now able to wear a mask which meant we could go to the Franklin Park Conservatory. And Nora went into a coffee shop for the first time in her life! After we got our coffee and baked goods, we tried to leave, and she refused. Even after bribing her with a cinnamon roll she did not want to leave this place filled with people, and sounds, and smells. We had to carry her out screaming, poor pandemic baby. But eventually the cinnamon roll made her feel better. And the next day we had this amazing vegan chocolate strawberry heart cake, thanks to Aunt Rebecca!

Yesterday was a reminder that lots of unexpected things can happen. Therapy has been great for Liam and me. I recommend it for everyone, really. :) And there are awesome services through the James Cancer Hospital that I’ve just signed up for: yoga, music therapy, mindfulness trainings, acupuncture, and medical massage, along with the support group I’m already part of. When the pandemic chills out, we could even do equine therapy with the kids, which would be amazing. They both can’t stop talking about horses. There is also a global leiomyosarcoma facebook group that has been invaluable. I ask questions and receive such helpful answers and stories from other folks who have gone through similar experiences.

And of course, all the support and well wishes from friends and family mean so much to us. We are deeply grateful for all of you, and while cancer is the absolute worst, it is amazing to get this outpouring of love from so many.

xoxox,

Molly