The Big C – Chapter 4
The weeks keep rolling by in my journey through chemotherapy. After my transition to NorthBay Health and Dr. Powers, she submitted specimens to FoundationOne for CDx testing. They specifically look to see if a patients tumor does or does not have mutations in the KRAS and NRAS genes.
Testing revealed KRAS and NRAS wild-type status and a PIK3R1 mutation; “Wild-type” means these genes work normally and are not locked in an “on” position that causes fast, out-of-control tumor growth – a good thing
Because of those results, my next “cocktail” of Chemo will change. She explained that she will add Cetuximab to the FOLFIRI, because it is beneficial only in RAS wild type disease and should improve response, duration of response, and overall survival. The result could be that with improvement (reduction) in the size of the tumor(s), chemotherapy could be discontinued and we would continue Cetuximab alone.
Still not having any problems other that the “Flu-like” symptoms, joint aches and hot flashes. Those hot flashes were not due to the weather the past few days.
Still on a semi-liquid diet, and not able to eat anything with strings, seeds, skins, peels, or leafy. Skins and peels have to come off before eating. Amazing how many foods are stringy, even after you peel them. Have discovered that seedless watermelons DO have seeds and watermelon is kind of stringy. I carefully pick out the seeds with knife and fork and cut it into little (1/4″) cubes and chew it. Get lots of flavor, but sure wish I could put a big chunk in my mouth and chow-down.
Back to missing being part of the Worship and Tech Teams at Windborn Church. Tuesday we will find out how long the Doc thinks she will continue the new regimen. My surgeon in Sacramento wants to do a sigmoidscopy and then a few weeks later do the originally planned resection of my colon. At the same time he would undo my Ileostomy and I would be able to start with semi-liquid and progress back to regular foods. Can’t wait!
Stay tuned…