DONNA,

Yes, the aggressive approach is the way to go. THe doctor we have now is involved in a lot of research, he says that the 5FU added to the mix is not showing any added benefit compared to just the cisplatin/docetaxil. This apparently is the latest. Jeff's mouth sores are so severe he still can't swallow or take any solids- 3 weeks now. We are going to continue treatment without the 5fu and then have the surgery to remove the nodes ( even though they are almost gone). We feel okay with this decision and have done our own research on the most effective drugs. His reaction apparently was over the top and at this point they feel the F5u would cause more problems than benefit.This is the team of doctors decision not ours. We said we would do whatever it takes.

The doctor we fired had the same thoughts about treatment but he was disorganized and not attentive in getting back to us and somewhat dismissive; hence the reason we went to another provider more together.

I sense peoples concerns that we are eliminating the 5FU and of course it makes me nervous. I had to ask a hundred times if they are sure about the latest research, checked it out myself and then asked again if they are sure he should discontinue the F5U. They felt very confident in their decision. So....we start next Thurs without the 5FU. Meanwhile Jeff is on the PEG and still on high doses of morphine for his mouth.

Just a thought.. I wonder if they has given him the 5FU before radiation as an induction it might have been easier on him? Your husband had it before?

Vanessa

Either way it is scary not to do every drug just in case but I have to trust that this treatment will be the best for Jeff considering his reaction.