We just got our results in from round one of Chemo with Taxotere. PSA dropped from 12.82 down to 12.24 in 3 weeks. Small drop, but a big lift to my spirits. All of my other blood work was good. Just a little info on the side effects that I have experienced with Taxotere. First, we shaved the old head. When it started to fall out, we did a preemptive strike. My taste buds are gone. Everything tasts like ........ nothing. This should help control the weight that the Prednisone has piled on. We dropped 2 pounds over the past three weeks. This is good. I have a tingling in my fingernails, but we followed the advise of FLHW and bought the Elasto-gel mittens. This should help. I have experienced major heartburn from the other side effect drugs. Zantac should take care of that.
On small note, why is it everytime I do an update it starts to rain and the tornado sirens start singing. It is rain like all get out. Now back to the show..........
The only other side effect is that I can feel an increase in fatigue. This starts later in the day but subsides with rest. A good excuss to get in the recliner. Back paid has not been effected by chemo yet. Still taking hydrocodone 2-3 times a day.
We took round two on Wednesday 4-2 along with Zometa. Having the port makes this so much easier. It takes about 1-1/2 to 2 hours to take all this stuff in. But it is time well spent, if you know what I mean.
I have a great oncologist in Dr. Windsor. He is the kind of man you want treating you. He is upfront and clear with everything we talk about. He told me Wednesday that his plan, and mine, is to treat me with the chemo until we get the PSA down to 0.01 or as low as it will go. I am on board with that. 14 months ago I didn't think I would be here writing this. Every day is a blessing. I still work every day. We are planning a vacation (coming to see ya Tony - let's do dinner) and I continue to sing with my group at church. Life is good.
I promise to stay on the forum more. I love you all and will continue to carry all of you in my prayers.
New motto after the birthday...........Still alive at 55.
Peace, love, and WAR EAGLE,
Walt