delay vs reduced

Discussion Board Forums Chemotherapy & More delay vs reduced

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  • #32226
    devoncat
    Spectator

    I just had a discussion with my friend, a pediatric oncologist. She said the decision on whether to reduce or delay is complex and varies between doctors and hospitals. At her hospital, they opt for delaying treatment in hopes of a full dose at the beginning of someones treatment. If the patients are in maintenance or perhaps pallative chemo treatment, they will often reduce. These are general guidelines at her hospital only and doctors do have their own preferences.

    I am not sure what all that means. She said reduce vs. delay is complex decision. To tell the truth, I am not more enlightened. Does getting reduced chemo mean anything in how the doctors perceive me and my health. Who knows.

    Kris

    #32225
    suzannegm
    Member

    Hi Kris – Since I too have done things maybe I shouldn’t have (having a glass of wine here and there, doing yard work which made me sore, etc) then I too should probably ask my body to forgive me, BUT I also think doing these things which make us feel more normal are good for our spirit. So don’t beat yourself up. Continue to live your life.

    Regarding the reduced dose or waiting for your body to bounce back, out of the 2 FOLFOX treatments I’ve been able to have, one of them has been at a 20% reduction (meaning I got 80% of the oxaliplatin but 100% of everything else). I haven’t been able to have my 3rd treatment because my platelets have been too low. I’m trying to decide, if my platelets are high enough, whether or not I should have treatment number 3 tomorrow at a reduced dose or wait until after my scans next week. If the FOLFOX is not working why should I slam my body with more toxic chemicals? But I also wonder if some chemo is better than none. I’m hours away from getting new bloodwork and I still don’t know what I’m going to do. I want to be in control and it pisses me off that my body is not rebounding as fast as it used to. I’m sorry I can’t help you answer this question but maybe it helps to know someone else is dealing with the same thing.

    #32224
    lainy
    Spectator

    I could give you a time out, but instead I commend you on trying live as normal a life as you can. Your spirit, sense of humor, love of life and attitude is the best RX….love you!

    #2786
    devoncat
    Spectator

    My white blood and liver enzymes were slightly wonky today so I instead of full chemo regime, I got 75% of the gemzar and 100% of cisplat.

    I have been trying to research if it is better to wait and get the whole whack or get a reduced amount but could not find anything. Does anyone know the current thinking? My old oncolofist was a waiter. My new one is a reducer. I am confused.

    I think (perhaps) I was too naughty and brought some of it on myself. Since I am not catholic, I will make my confession here. Forgive me body, I was careless with you. I did break the cardinal drinking rule and indulged in half a bottle of champagne. But sometimes life needs to be celebrated. And yes, I did go out in the wet and wind to cut trees, but I felt so good and it really is only the sniffles now. And yes, after cutting the wood I did take those painkillers that the doctor said were a no no because my liver didnt like them. But, what else could I do? Who knew that I would use my rump muscles cutting wood and they would stiffen so much I couldnt walk, move or lay down? I have learned my lesson, dearest body. Please forgive me and I will take much better care of you.

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