Update
 

Just a quick update: my oncologist doesn't want to start any chemo yet so Tuesday we just did a 5-hr hydration and herceptin infusion. My blood pressure was very low, 90 over 45, so I slept through it all and went home and slept some more. I am feeling better today and hoping we can figure out what chemo to start. The good news I just found out today is that my ca-27/29 did drop about 25 points with the two gemzar infusions. That marker test has always been very reliable for me, so if we can get back on something there is a good chance of shrinking the lung tumor again.The question is what to use? Have any of you had a side effect to a chemo and still been able to use it? Maybe by adding something to it to help counteract the side effect, which in this case was a really bad rash after the second gemzar. The oncologist is wanting my input on what to do, which I appreciate, but I still feel kind of inadequate to know what to do. Both navelbine and gemzar lowered the tumor markers almost right away, but when we tried just the herceptin the markers started rising again. I would so much appreciate any experiences or suggestions any of you might have.Thank you! I'll have blood tests drawn at home on Monday and then go in on TUesday the 22nd, hopefully to start chemo again, if we can figure out what to try. I prefer infusion since I have a power port and can't take pills well. THe three weeks of huge antibiotics just about killed me! I'll keep you up to date. I'd love to try halaven but have not had taxanes so don't think I can. Appreciate any suggestions, and also good thoughts and prayers! Hugs, TriciaK (PS: Just had another great grand baby boy this morning. That's the second now of the 7 due before July! That certainly lifts my fighting spirits!)

Re: Update
 

Tricia, I don't have any advice but I just wanted to say that I admire you so much and I am praying for you. You are so brave and have such a wonderful attitude. I wish you the very best. Mary L

Re: Update
 

Congrats on the new baby in your life. Babies are so precious and good for the spirit. Hope you get to hold him soon. Sorry I have no advice, wondering if the rash after the gemzar was just a one time fluke? Hope the next chemo is very tolerable and effective. You are a terrific inspiration, take care. Pam

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Tricia, can you precede treatment with the infusion type benedryl to avoid the rash?
ma

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Have you consulted a dermatologist about the rash-such a pity not to be able to continue a treatment that is showing positive signs. Hope you feel less sleepy soon.
Trish

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Tricia;
I don't have any advice but sure do want to wish you well on your next treatment decision that it will continue improvement. Congrats on your new grand baby boy; how wonderful.
Sending big hugs and prayers your way,
Kris....

Re: Update
 

Tricia, Its always a day brightener to read a post from you...may i always have your spirit and positive attitude. What if they gave you IV Benedryl and maybe 1/2 the dose of Gemzar then gradually worked up to the full dose. It seems a shame to be taken off something that is working....they could also use steroids to prevent an allergic reaction, and Pepcid for the histamine effect...all can be given prior to treatment through your port.
Hope this helps.