Saw the radiologist on 03/14/07 after 6 radiation treatments and one complete session of chemo, both drugs. He reported that the tonsil had a small hole in it already and the lymph nodes had shrunk by 0.5 cm. It explained why the ear ache was gone and the sore throat diminished. I know that the worst is yet to come, but good news is always welcomed and needed. So far no nausea at all, knock on wood.
Chemo on the 14th was just the docetaxel which produced a side effect of the equivilant of a 2000 pound elephant standing on my sternum. Immediate and correct reaction by the nurse made the elephant light as a fairy and the treatment continued.

Pete,

You're so right - any good news IS good news!I'm really glad to see that you had your PEG tube put in BEFORE Tx started rather than waiting for the inevitable side effects of the Tx to force it to be done. Being proactive throughout this treatment regimen, while it won't prevent the mucositis,weight loss, pain, etc., it will prepare you for these symptoms and gets you on top of them. It will be rough but you can get through this. I had a similar diagnosis to yours at age 50 and now, at age 53, feel great and lead a "normal" life. Hang in there.

Relish every bit of good news. Yes things will get tough, but we've all been through it and you will make it fine. I thought the last week and half of radiation I was not going to make it, but having your pain meds works wonders. It's funny, but going through that makes me look at life a whole different way. The sun shines a little brighter and I can laugh a little harder. Hang in there, it'll be alright.

Hey Pete60,

Any problems with the Ethyol yet. Understand that this drug can have quite a few side effects. Start Chemo/Rad this coming Wednesday and have opted to try the Ethyol. Glad everything is working out for you!!!

Jon

heresjonnie,

So far no problems with Ethyol yet. However, one hour prior to the Ethyol I take 60mg of Allegra and 8mg of Zofran. I also have a script of 10mg of Compazine to be taken for nausea. So far I don't see how I can be too nauseous, but I know it will probably happen. The first injection of Ethyol was a little painful and left a knot in my arm. Each succeeding shot the pain was less and the knot disappeared. The only side affect I've noticed is a dull ache in each arm starting Saturday afternoon and lasting the weekend. Today I tried a heating pad and it seems to have helped. The ache is similar to the ache caused by over exertion from physical exercise, nothing that cannot be tolerated.

Good luck with your treatment, keep up a good attitud.

Pete

HI PETE60, SO PLEASED TO HEAR YOUR GOOD NEWS.CARRY ON THE GOOD WORK HUGS AND PRAYERS YOUR WAY ....MAZ