We had an end of chemo treatment consult with the Medical Oncologists Dr Melvin Chin and Dr Nic Yeo today (1 November, 2024). My feedback was mostly about the nausea (funny about that) as that was my chief and most debilitating side effect. Melvin reiterated what the radiologist said, “Until recently, the combined chemoradiation was the ‘definitive treatment’ and that would be the end of treatment until symptoms returned.” As stated previously, things are different these days because of new drugs. I have a scan coming up in 6 weeks to review the impacts of the chemo-radiation treatment (too soon before then). However, I have an appointment with the medical oncologists in 4 weeks (29/11/2024) to see how my recovery is progressing. It is likely that they will start me on the drug Osimertinib which is a tablet a day. Osimertinib targets and hopefully eliminates cancer cells with the Epithelial Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) mutation L858R. This drug is the new standard treatment for patients with my type and stage of lung cancer. Osimertinib has been used with Stage IV NSCLC patients, some of who have been taking it for 5-6 years without the cancer returning. The research supporting this change in the standard treatment using Osimertinib is very recent (June 2024) and I put a copy of the report in the Resources . I will be the first Stage IIIB patient at PoW to receive the new treatment after having combined chemoradiation. Seems that I was in the right place at the right time. The side effects are like to be minimal – but no-one knows for sure. The consult was very positive. We briefly discussed prognosis. In truth, Stage IIIB lung cancer is a serious diagnosis and the cancer typically comes back. Not so long ago, that timing was 6-12 months. Osimertinib has pushed recurrence out to 39 months and some Stage IV people are still going after 5 or more years. There is hope.
Philip Wheeler says:
The new drug treatment sounds incredibly powerful and positive- go for it! And great that you have resumed your water exercises – I find exercise an incredible mood lifter and general help even if motivation to initiate a session can sometimes be lacking! I read this morning that the most important thing for ageing people is to be able to stand on one leg for 30 seconds- I managed only about 10 so there is a lot of catching up to do. Try it!
Den says:
Osimertinib is potent and life saving. Thank goodness we live in Australia and the drug cost is subsidised by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Oh yes. One leg standing is a regular part of our mat pilates classes! even more difficult if you close your eyes.
JimColless says:
Hi Dennis, you have certainly made great progress in withstanding the treatment and being able to go back to aquarobics. Hope the benefits of some exercise keep getting better for you. Love and best wishes, Martin&Jim xx
Den says:
Hi Jim and Martin, yes I have traveled an unexpected path. In a strange and counter-intuitive way, I have learned that exercising is an important part of overcoming radiation fatigue. I must exercise to overcome my fatigue!!!! I find that I enjoy the aqua classes and swimming but I crash when I get home and need to sleep. Hopefully it will get easier with time. xxxxx
Mary Fogarty says:
I’m really glad you’re being so well looked after, Dennis. It has probably felt a bit too intense at times but, as you say, we are so lucky living where we do. With Nurse David complementing the other medicos, you’re in excellent hands.
Den says:
Thanks Mary. Yes, Nurse David has been a wonder. He has prepared food and encouraged me to eat, so often when I did not want to eat. I am very grateful to him, and to dear friends and family who have kept a watchful eye out for both. Heaps of love to all.