September 6, 2012 Seattle Cancer Treatment Center

We have been  here at the Cancer Treatment Center since 8:45 am, it is now just after noon.  Lots of details to work out-what the insurance will pay, and what we will pay. 

Leland has had his blood drawn and checked in the lab here, a vitamin infusion containing 25,00 units of C plus B and something else I can’t remember.  It will help him with cellular repair and oxidation, enhances the effect of the chemo and gives his immune system a lot of support.  He is now on the chemo drip, two different kinds which have been very successful for his type of cancer, plus a strong antiemetic which will last for 4-6 days in his system.

He has just enjoyed a large serving of watermelon which has been previously mostly forbidden due to high sugar content.  However, during the infusion period we have learned, it is good to eat something healthy and high in sugar.   As the cancer feeds on the sugar,  the watermelon is the Trojan Horse bringing the chemo in more effectively even though it is being given at a much lower dose than standard therapy. Any high glycemic food will do the job, although of course it is best to use whole fruits or juice for this.  Dr. G, our ND Oncologist says a lot of people bring in doughnuts and other junk, but he does not recommend that!

We are really appreciating the Integrative approach here.  Leland is tended by an RN, we have seen a Nurse Practioner, had a lot of help with navigating the insurance maze from the office staff, had several enlightening conversations with Dr. G and one of the other ND. Onc and been seen by the Medical Oncologist, Dr. C. 

He lost 3 more pounds this week, but Dr. G is not concerned, says all chemo patients lose weight because the body is fighting so hard, and it is to be expected.  He feels so much better now in constast  to last month, it is hard to believe. He actually has an appetite again, feels hunger rather than nausea and has some energy to do small tasks. He does get drowsy, and a little wobbly from time to time, but we can live with that!

He will have an IV Port placed in his upper chest wall next week, so his veins will not need to be punctured all the time.  Also another CT scan will be done, this time whole body, as no one yet has checked his chest and shoulders, then it can be compared with the first one done in April-at least the pelvis portion.

We were told by our nurse earlier (a cancer survivor herself) that aggressive cancers such as Leland’s respond very quickly to treatment.  Sounds good to me!  

We have a cubicle with a bed, a table and a couple of chairs, and curtains which can be drawn if we wish.  The wall by the bed is a huge window overlooking the  freeway with a view of a hillside in the background and lots of trees.  We are so thankful for each good day, for all God’s provisions for us, and for each of you-your love, prayers, cards and calls. We are indeed blessed as we journey this way.