When I wrote that blog I was feeling about as bad as I have ever felt. I was extremely fatigued and in a lot of pain. I spent the better part of each day lying on the couch, under the influence of opiate pain killers. I have now been on a new experimental anti-melanoma drug, made my Roche for four days now, and the difference in the way I feel is quite remarkable. I feel much better. I'm still not 100%, as I still get fatigued if I'm on my feet too long, and I still have quite a bit of edema in my legs and abdomen, but that is improving too. The drug has many possible side effects, but so far I have tolerated it very well. I have to go back to the Virginia Cancer Institute about every ten days for blood work and a brief exam. Oddly one of the possible side effects of the drug is squeamish cell carcinoma, another dangerous form of skin cancer, so a full body skin exam has to be performed about once a month to check for that. If any is found, then it can be nipped in the bud.
So overall I am doing well, and I attribute at least a part of that to all of the love that you have sent my way!
As always, I love you all!
Melissa XOXO
13 comments:
Thanks for the update...keep them coming as often as possible. That squemish cell carcenoma...is that actually a squamous cell carcinoma? That's what the doctor thought I had on my shoulder, but it turned out to be a basal cell carcinoma which they could just cut out. Hang in there lady, we're all watching over you.
Glad that messages of support have helped in some way. I hope you are on the road to recovery
Becca
@ Suzi
Thanks for the correction. I've heard it pronounced both ways and never knew wich was correct.
Melissa XX
Yes, keep us all posted, Melissa. It's good news that the drug is having a positive effect so soon.
Lucy
Yes, as the others have said, thanks for the news. We will keep the good thoughts flowing, never fear! :)
Halle
xox
Been thinking about you, girl. Stay strong and positive.
Miss the pictures of your place in the spring. If you feel up to it, please include some in a post one of these days.
I miss the East Coast!
Calie ccc
Very glad to hear the medicine is helping, Melissa, and thanks for the update.
Yes, that would be "squamous," but I can understand anyone being squeamish in talking about it. :) I hope you do not experience that particular side effect! Glad the drug treatment is going so well!
So glad that you are having a positive response, how treatments have come on apace in recent years.
Not squeamish about the full body search I hope!
So many out here depend on your incisive comments, lets hope this treatment gets you back energetic soon.
You will need that energy, remember the grass is growing or are you going to start a wild garden like me?
So happy to hear that you feel better. I guess the drug likes you as much as we do.
Thanks for your update, you have not been far from my thoughts since your last post.
Glad to hear that the treatment is going well for you!
Hears hoping that it continues along the same path!
Stace
Good morning Melissa,
Hope your morning brings you further good feelings and improvement. I am continuing to pray that the Lord will heal you through your doctors' care. That is why he gave us doctors. A speedy recovery...
In much prayer,
Cynthia
Melissa,
I've been unable to read the blogs I follow for far too long, and so missed everything you've been going through. Please know that I am keeping you in my prayers.
Rebecca
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