Hi everyone! Whew, what a week! 1st cislpatin treatment monday, w/amifostine, anzemet, ativan. Amifostine didn't go well & we discontinued it after 4 days due to allergic reactions like uncontrollable sneezing & mucous. O yeah, did I mention nausea & vomiting. Had to stop all of radiation treatments in the middle either due to sneezing or nausea or vomiting or all three!! Was able to complete 2 full rad treatments. It's amazing how fast the techs got in the room & got that mask off my face every time. I suppose they had they're own motivation!! HaHa!! Can you imagine the sprinkler effect that IMRT mask would create. Yesterday the amofostine hit so hard I had to be wheelchaired down to radiation & we didn't even attempt radiation treatment. The nurse had me sit in dark room & dripped 2 cans of gatorade through my peg till I felt better. My radiation doc says it will go much easier from here on out without amofostine, I hope so!! Does anyone know of any other drug/chemical that can protect tissue during radiation treatments??? Hope all that are doing well continue & those that aren't get better!!!!

Erik, you are an inspiration! After what must have been a dreadful week you still have your sense of humour!!

I can be of no help with the chemo side of things but wanted to send support. Your analogy with the mask and the sprinkler effect had me smiling. I hope next week is more positive for you and that you enjoy a peaceful Easter.

From Helen, with love

erik k, I've had 12 radiation treatments and one cisplatin chemo at this point. I still have lots of saliva,almost too much.. I swish and swollow aloe vera gel and also gluatamine 3 times daily,my only side effects are sore mouth, I use the pink stuff, magic mouthwash and have been eating soft foods. But everyday is different and I still have 21 rads and 2 chemo to go.. Good Luck and keep your chin Up!!!! Tom Roussell