New treatment update

Today was NOT the day to see Dr Kohli - he was unable to schedule him in the clinic and thus did not receive either the blood transfusion or the chemotherapy. We did, however, schedule everything.

Tomorrow at 8:30 am he will go to the clinic for blood typing and crossing. This is required before he gets any transfusion. He will then go to the basement for an echocardiogram. Before Dr Kohli administers any chemotherapy he wants to make sure that Joe's heart is functioning properly. Apparently the Andriamycin can be toxic to the heart. Joe was required to have heart tests before his IL-2 treatment, so, everything should be OK. He then will get 2 units of blood. Dr Kohli will have a consultation with him and set up the chemotherapy which, unfortunately, cannot be done at home but as an inpatient in Strong. When he and I discussed this he told me that we in Rochester do not have the technology that Houston has to administer the drugs at home, rather they have to be administered as an inpatient. Thus, Joe will be in Strong weeks 1,3,5 & 7 to have both chemo drugs given. He'll most likely be there 2 days. What am I talking about - this is Strong! Give it 3-4 days! ;-) While it bothers me that he will be in the hospital, the visiting nurse today told me that it is best for him to have it administered there if any complications arise. It is my best guess that he will be admitted on Monday the 24th for his first treatment.

I pray that he will tolerate the meds and that they will work to kill the cancer cells. I pray that in 8 weeks we'll be seeing Dr Amato's smiling face again - only this time with good news.

I took a ride around Spencerport and delivered dishes today - Anderson, Ferrante, Potter, Pecorino and Kwiatkowski families - thank you for your delicious foods. I trust you found your dishes and containers on your front step! I visited with Scott and Cindy for awhile today - Scott is looking good - strong - and maintaining a great attitude toward his battle. Together, the 4 of us - we'll fight this - and lend strength back and forth as it's needed - to keep Joe and Scott healthy.

This has been a tremendously difficult week - and it's only Tuesday! Thank you, all, for your support and love. Without it we would not be as strong.

With continued hope for a better tomorrow
Vicki, Gina & Tom