On Friday 29 November 2024 David and I went to a consult with the Medical Oncology specialists Dr Melvin Chin and Dr Nic Yeo at Prince of Wales hospital. The purposes of the consult were: (1) for them to see what I looked like after the 6 week chemoradiation treatments, (2) to review results of blood samples that were taken to determine if my body systems, (blood, liver, and kidneys), have recovered sufficiently for me to commence consolidation treatment. Consolidation treatment is undertaken in the hope of stopping the cancer from progressing or returning.
The blood tests showed that although I have mild anemia (low red cell count) and mild lymphopenia (low white blood cell count) my system is well on the way to recovery and my liver and kidneys are normal. In other words, I am recovered enough to start the targeted therapy as consolidation treatment – one tablet of Osimertinib daily. We discussed potential side effects of taking osmertinib (nausea, diarrhoea, skin rashes). I flagged that I would have a serious problem if taking the drug continued the life draining nausea that I have lived with since chemo-radiation treatments began. My concern was noted (heheheee). As I said previously, if someone asked me what cancer I have based on my felt symptoms I would say stomach or bowel cancer. I have no symptom that would make me think that I have lung cancer.
The doctors gave me a prescription for Osimertinib. They said that the pharmacy would need to make a special order the drug. I went to the local pharmacy on the way home and placed the order. They expect the drug to be available Monday afternoon (2 December, 2024). Within a few days we will find what joys await me from my relationship with Osimertinib. I hope Osi is gentle!
On 16 December 2024 I have an appointment with the radiation oncologist Dr Wenchang Wong to hear the verdict on what impact the chemo-radiation treatments had on the cancer. Despite the positive expectations of the medical oncologists, I have to admit that I am not looking forward to the news that we might receive from that consultation.
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