Hormone Treatment Obstacle Course

Yesterday Dec 10 we met with Dr Kaplan, Marce's oncologist, to discuss how she is reacting to the hormone blocking medications. The Fareston also did not sit well with her and when she had ramped up to only a half dose, was beginning to experience symptoms similar to Tamoxifen. Since that was not sustainable, we discussed options. The good news is that Dr Kaplan was not too concerned about her inability to tolerate these medications, and if fact said he would be comfortable if she does nothing else. He feels that her course of treatment so far (surgery + chemo) puts her into an 85ish % survival range. Turns out that is not too different from the average woman walking down the street. He did offer one alternate course of treatment, which is a newer drug that actually knocks off estrogen production in Marce's ovaries. (This is opposed to the previous medications which "blocked" the estrogen from feeding any potential cancer. ) The side effects are menopause symptoms, but without some of the longer-term adverse side effects from the hormone blocking medications. He encouraged us to think about it, do some research and decide in the New Year. But he was also fine with Marce doing nothing additional, which makes both of us feel better. So we have some thinking and praying to do as Marce decides if she should give this treatment a go.

Thanks again to everyone for their continued thoughts, prayers and concern. We really appreciate it!

Marc