Feelin' GOOD

Thursday:
Met with doctor (he was in a good mood) and he said enough stem cells were harvested for 2 infusions if necessary. My labs were good. He said he wanted me to go through direct radiation (danger of intestine damage), Zevalin (if approved and if after the first isotope test doesn't show it in my lungs, liver or too much in my marrow). We'll meet with the radiation dr. on Wednesday for a consultation, then he'll meet with her and then all of is will meet together to discuss the results. I may have both, one or the other, or neither. He said he uses the radiation doctors as a 'reality check'. I'll a shot every day (except Sunday) through Monday, then Weds the consultation, and Thursday afternoon another chemo session (just the gemcitabine so no tingly fingers and only 2 hrs). Then I'll get the one shot that lasts 2 weeks. He said he still didn't know how many rounds of chemo (2-6) I'll get and if I'll get the same chemical(s) or different ones. Of course I won't know my chemo schedule except week by week so any plans I have are on hold. Have NO idea of high dose chemo or transplant time either. Oh well ... what else is new.

He gave a percentage (don't remember if it is a salvage therapy, response rate, or what) of around 50% but said his rate was closer to 75% (yeah dr!). Gotta be good whichever it is.He also said I was going in the right direction (yeah!) and seemed very upbeat throughout the visit.

So ... when chemo session was over and I went outside I noticed my fingers felt as though they were getting pelted by icy rain (ahhh it begins). Put on my gloves and it was okay. Then later when I was peeling a piece of cucumber it felt like I was holding a very thorny rose! Ouch ... almost had to have Jim peel it for me. Even my water bottle (room temperature) gave me little ouchies. Have to watch what I pick up over the next few days ... very strange sensation, but if it's the worse I get then bring it on ...

That's about it for now ... Felt great this morning, riding a "steroid high" right now so getting a lot of things done (while it lasts). Got a super card from the staff at work!! Love those guys!

Love to all