It’s only been 6 months since diagnosis and while Jeff initially responded favorably to Taxotere, our spirits were dashed when on infusions 3 and 4 his PSA levels were trending up quite a bit. Additionally he wasn’t feeling well, his pain levels soared, and it was clear he was declining, not just suffering from chemo side effects.
As I’ve failed to maintain Jeff’s progress here, I’ll skip the heartbreaking “middle” and jump to current, part of which includes I finally got Jeff to agree to see Dr. Kwon.
Jeff’s oncologist is leaving Mayo and for those not familiar, Jeff agreed to consult with a highly regarded urologist at Mayo (Dr. Eugene Kwon) known for treating prostate cancer patients with recurrence and patients with aggressive prostate cancer.
Jeff has recently struggled with agonizing pain which he describes as, “bone crushing pain”. Its been unrelenting and for about
2 weeks, was out of control. Thankfully, his pain is currently managed. His PSA levels are trending up, liver levels are high, he is often nauseated, has no appetite, and is fatigued.
The timing for a new a doctor couldn’t have been better.
Dr. Kwon met and exceeded my hopes, wishes, and expectations. Jeff hasn’t lost his sense of humor. As I’m the one who (for months) tried to get Jeff to consult with Dr. Kwon, Jeff says to me, “ok so now we have the appointment, no going in there asking for autographs or selfies. You behave.”
Another teary appointment for me, combined with feelings of relief, fear, and hope.
During our appointment, Dr. Kwon phoned and consulted with medical oncologist, Dr. Lance Pagliaro. We could only hear Dr. Kwon’s side and there was a lot of “doctor speak”, so the conversation wasn’t easily followed.
Together they made an initial plan of attack as we sat there and listened.
Jeff may have responded to the Taxotere, but the Taxotere has gone in and wiped out what it can by itself. Jeff’s cancer is extremely aggressive, it’s everywhere, and it’s consuming him.
He was due for his 6th and (final) Taxotere chemo infusion on June 30th. He’ll still be receiving Taxotere, however, they’ll be adding Carboplatin and he can expect at least 3 more rounds. If he responds well, he’s looking at 6 total.
Unfortunately side effects are much harsher, but obviously the goal is to stop the progression of the disease.
Jeff’s previous oncologist had advised that as per Jeff’s last scans they weren’t seeing progression of the disease. However, he failed to mention (at any time) Jeff’s scans are “lit up”. His cancer is everywhere.
Dr. Kwon is concerned that Jeff may either have neuroendocrine or small cell. Dr. Kwon said think of it like Clint Eastwood, “the good, the bad, the ugly”. Neuroendocrine, the bad. Small cell, the ugly.
Dr. Kwon ordered a bone biopsy to determine exactly what we’re dealing with. Jeff will have a bone biopsy to his right (or left) posterior iliac crest.
They also ordered guardant 360 genetic testing.
Jeff will continue on Eligard. As Jeff’s PSA levels continue to climb, we asked if a different blocker might work better. Dr. Kwon said they all work the same and there was no reason to change this.
I’m so grateful for Dr. Kwon’s immediate action plan. I know in my heart Jeff is now getting the best possible care available. We can only hope and pray he responds to the Carboplatin and hope the bone biopsy doesn’t prove to be small cell.
Dr. Kwon ordered a PET scan, but thanks to private insurance it’s not likely to be covered. He said unfortunately due to Jeff’s age (54) they’ll probably deny it, but he wanted to try anyway, so he put in the order.
Towards the end of our appointment, Jeff said, “oh. I thought I was doing much better than this.” I still think he’s doing wonderful. He faces each day with courage and does the best he can. He’s the bravest person I know.
I don’t know what to expect going forward. Seems we’re way too early in the game for treatments not to be working. I don’t see as many stories beyond the “taxotere successes”, but want to believe my precious Jeff will have a remarkable turnaround once he starts Carboplatin.
He’s my hero ❤️
#teamjeffgallagher
Post Edited (Stephanie Williams) : 6/23/2021 1:04:05 PM (GMT-6)