Update

[ammebarb]

Had my every four month visit to Philadelphia this week, and glad to say that my appointments went well. The Avastin burned and hurt like the blazes for a while, but was much, much better by this morning. Tumor is still shrinking and retina is healthy, no macular swelling and vision is holding at about 20/40. Dr. Sato thinks that I'm tolerating Sutent pretty well. but thinks I should plan to stop at 6 months' worth. I had hoped to take it for a year. He is the expert, so needless to say, I will do as he recommends. I am tired, and it is good to be home.

['lizbeth]

I love hearing that the tumor is shrinking - that great! Healthy retina, no macular swelling and I would love to have your vision. Is that uncorrected?

Do they put the Avastin in the eye? Don't laugh if that is a dumb question, just curious.

Glad you are home.

[ammebarb]

Hi Elizabeth. The vision is corrected. The avastin is shot into the eye. Not especially pleasant, but supposed to help preserve vision. And I didn't laugh at your question....I certainly knew nothing about ocular melanoma, until it affected me. Thanks for responding. My best to you!

[Laurel]

Barb,

Great news! Wondering why Sato only recommends 6 months?

Laurel

[NEDenise]

Yay for good news!

And, yay for how brave you are!

You go girl!
Denise

[KDR]

Great news...love to hear this

Karen

[suzan w]

Well done brave Her2 warrior sister!!

[ammebarb]

Laurel, I believe that Dr. Sato is considering what my side effects have been and has said that toxicity will increase. He thinks I will be glad to be finish in Dec. or Jan. He also said that I could take it until I'm really run down, but he'd rather I didn't, in case mets turn up....He'd prefer I'm healthier for a "fight". Also doesn't know If another six months confers any additional benefit. It's probably a psychological thing with me....it feels like a safety net, when it probably isn't. One guy on the OM group developed mets while on it.

[Paty]

So glad for you Barb!! Hugs.

[Laurel]

Barb,

Did you see my email? We will have to get together later in the month. My brother is going up to Sully this weekend (damn! Have to share!). I have a crazy September, but will try my best to get up there for a good belly laugh with you. Love you loads!

L

[KsGal]

Woot! Im just glad to hear you have had so much improvement. A shot to the eye definitely does not sound like my cup of tea. I used to have nightmares about stuff like that when I was a child, so I am beyond amazed at how brave and strong you are. Big hugs and continued prayers for your full recovery.

[ammebarb]

Thank you, dear HER2 sisters for all your kind support. I am always wishing you all well and keeping you in my prayers.

Laurel, hope to see you sometime this Fall!

Barb A.