I will begin with the positive. Today we started the last phase before maintenance, Delayed Intensification. Today was a little like the beginning of the end. This phase totals 57 days (if everything goes as planned). We are looking to be in maintenance towards the end of January. After January Cami's hair should start to grow back and we will only have to go to clinic for chemo once a month...this is HUGE and we are getting so close I can taste it! This is all great and exciting, the only drawback is we have to make it through this BRUTAL round before we get there. Cami will be on 9 different drugs in this round; Dexamethasone (steroids again...blahhh), Vincristine, Doxorubicin, PEG-asparaginase, Thioguanine, Cytarabine, Intrathecal Methorexate, and Septra.
Like I said it is BRUTAL.
Like I said it is BRUTAL.
Today Cami got: Methotrexate, Vincristine, and Doxorubicin (or the red devil as they call it up at clinic). Cami has been getting Methotrexate and Vincristine this entire time, but the "red devil" is new. It is literally red. Some of the side effects are; Nausea/vomiting, hair loss, pink or red urine, low blood counts, mouth sores, heart damage, nail bed discoloration, sensitive skin that burns easily. The Doctors said to expect transfusions and low ANC's (meaning low immunity) during this phase. Lovely.
Doxorubicin (Red Devil)
While we waited for her chemo infusions they gave Cami a doll and real medical supplies to play with. She cleaned and accessed the port, taped it up, took a blood sample, and hooked her up to chemo. It is amazing how closely she watches what is happening to her. I swear she could access her own port if needed.. she was a pro!
We also had to see the "sleepy Doctors" for yet another lumbar puncture. I was very anxious about this one because our last lumbar puncture didnt go very well and Cami was in EXTREME pain for about 7 days after. I was terrified this might happen again, but Cami was giggling uncontrollably before they put her to sleep, it was so funny because her laughing cut off mid giggle when they gave her the anesthesia. That stuff works FAST! It took her a while to wake up, once she did she was groggy, but not in pain.
I was so relieved!
Here she is with the anesthesiologist, giggling her little head off.
Trying to wake up.
Cancer is never fun, but we are making so many friends while going through this and it was a little party at clinic today. Millie was there and we met darling Elena for the first time in person. She was getting her last treatment in Delayed Intensification. It was nice to chat with her mom, Brianna about what to expect this round.
We were so glad to have Grandma Di-Di there with us today. I needed my Mom's support because I was an emotional wreck! It was a LONG day of treatment, but Cam handled the 6+ hours with a positive and happy attitude.
She amazes me more and more each and every day.
We love you Grandma Di-Di! Thanks for being there! XOXOX
Clinic stats:
Height: 107.5
Weight: 17kg (37.4lbs.)
ANC: 2400
WBC: 4.2
Hematocrit: 33.9%
Platelets: 291
She is such a brave little girl.. I know you probably hear that ALL the time but its so true!! And you are a VERY strong woman for being able to deal with it all!! Im So glad shes doing good!!
ReplyDeleteI can't stop staring at the picture of you and cam. It is beautiful. I am so proud of you both.
ReplyDeletepraying for this phase to go quickly!
ReplyDeletegood luck with the next 57 days! we'll try and say some extra prayers for you guys. the picture of her laughing while getting her anesthesia is classic. what a trooper.
ReplyDeleteWow the pic of you 2 is so so so gorgeous! I love it! I am so proud of all of you! You have been through so much in such a short period of time! I am glad I got to see Cami last night! She is so so so sweet! Know that I am here to take little Caden, Bring any amount of DC's whenever you want, the list goes on!!!! Know I love you!
ReplyDeleteLove Nat
Love you guys! XoXoXo!! You're such a strong little girl Cami!
ReplyDelete~Dave & Kristen
Seriously, we never see anyone when we're there! Does no one have appointments on Monday?! Last week we were the only people in infusion for the entire time we were there.
ReplyDeleteThe first part of this phase was a little harder, but the second half was pretty mild. Yeah, we had to give her chemo at home, but her energy levels returning and her happy disposition made it not so bad.
You guys are beautiful.
Chelsea, we are thinking about you and Cami and the rest of your family. You can do it! Erin and I will do a little dance and a cheer for you. Thank you for your text. You are always so sweet to think of others. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteYou are one strong mama! Good luck with this phase!
ReplyDeleteDear Cami.. its me Mia
ReplyDeleteIm missing you alot. I hope you get better soon. You are so Brave and Beautiful. I pray for you every day. I love you Cami.. XOXOX
Love
Mia :)
That's Cami...always making friends and so friendly. So beautiful inside and out even when she's not feeling good! She is so brave and we will be praying for all of you!
ReplyDeletewe loved seeing you guys! cami is so adorable (and i was dying over her CUTE outfit. the picture of her little striped legs sticking out from under the blanket is adorable!)
ReplyDeletei hope things are not too rough for you guys! we're praying for you!