The past couple days have been mentally and emotionally draining. We went into our appointment with our oncologist yesterday almost positive we knew what treatment to pursue. We talked with our doctor about Mayo and what they recommended. We discussed with our doctor the treatment regimen he recommended originally and why he recommended it. And then we didn't know what to do. The reality of MCL is that there is no standard of care- no treatment regimen that data has shown to be the gold standard. The reality is there are a number of treatment options and they all work in some degree to get to the goal of a remission. Basically there is no right answer. And that is so frustrating. And our doctor understands our frustration, that when it comes down to it- we have to do something and we just need to pick a treatment path and go for it. As my friend said, medicine is an art form. It is based on science, but it is an art form. Cancer acts differently and responds differently to medication in every person, you just make the best decisions you can along the way. We so very much want someone to tell us- this is what you should do and everything will be okay. But, that is not reality. So we spent yesterday evening praying and talking thru our options. And praying for peace about our decision. Because we want to make a decision, have peace about it and move forward.
Nate is going to do the nordic regimen and he begins Tuesday. The regimen will be one day of outpatient chemo here in Holland. Three weeks after that he will go to Spectrum Hospital in Grand Rapids, stay for 2-3 days and receive a chemo treatment. Three weeks after that he has outpatient chemo and repeats this rotation for about 4 months? He will then have a stem cell transplant.
We feel at peace with the decision, but emotions are all over the place. This is all going to become quite real next week.
Please pray for treatment to work, that side effects are minimal. Please pray for us as we parent our kids. It is challenging to be present and not let our frustration/stress spill over into parenting.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support, it means so very much to us.
-Stacy
{Hugs} We'll be praying. Thanks for the update.
ReplyDeleteI read this post late tonight and smiled. We prayed this morning that no matter what treatment path you will take, the Lord will even start the healing process before the chemo, and that the chosen path is God-ordained! Hey, you two, I think we are on the same page <3 <3
ReplyDeleteWe are praying for Nate as the chemo starts chomping on those cancer cells like a giant pac man! We will pray for minimal side effects and God's blessing on you as you go through this journey. Love you lots! Love,
ReplyDeleteMom and Dad
Dear Lord, please give Nate and Stephanie the strength, courage and endurance needed to tackle this challenge. Please surround them with peace and let them feel the love that is being sent their way. Amen.
ReplyDeleteWill be keeping Nate and entire family in our daily prayers. Praying also for medical team that will be caring for Nate.
ReplyDeleteWill be praying for Nate and your family - Gloriana
ReplyDelete