1 Year of Oral Chemo

Today marks the 1 year anniversary of me taking oral chemo (Tarceva) and I had another scan at the University of Chicago.  I am blessed to say that there has been no changes to the tumor and no signs of any progression.  My doctors are pleased with how my body is reacting to the medication and they have changed my appointments to every 3 months for scans now.  My rash has subsided to mostly occurring on my neck, nose and cheeks periodically but when it flares up, I use the hydrocortisone 2.5% cream after I shower in the evening and by morning, I look and feel much better.  This usually lasts for a week or so before I need to use the cream again.  The rash has almost dissipated completely and I was informed by my Dr that it usually subsides or clears up after so many months.  So for anyone who is just starting their oral chemo, keep positive because it gets better.  My Dr's said I was one of the worst cases that they seen but now I don't even realize I have it.  DON'T GIVE UP!! It does get better, but if you told me that a year ago, I would have never believed it.

I also had a discussion with my surgeon about being more aggressive and the options of undergoing surgery but he stated that having Stage IV adenocarcinoma with the disease in the lymph nodes in the middle of the chest, it would not be advantageous to perform the surgery.  My immune system is doing what it is supposed to be doing.   Rest, good diet and exercise is the best thing that I can do for myself as well as having a good positive mental attitude.