War and battle metaphors seem all too appropriate for the given situation, but I I can't think of a better way to express how I feel today. Yesterday, December 27, I had my first chemo treatment. I was able to start sooner than later because of the cooperation between Dr. Tempero at UCSF and Dr. Eisenberg at the California Cancer Center. Since UC's infusion center was all booked up, I was able to receive my first treatment here in Marin. So the fight is on and, hopefully, the cancer cells are finding that life isn't so easy for them any longer. So far, I'm doing pretty well in terms of the side effects. A bit more tired than usual, but so far so good. This was the first of three weekly treatments, then a week off, then another cycle. In between the chemo treatments, there will be plenty of blood draws, periodic CT scans. It's all somewhat surreal in a sense, all too real in others, especially for one who has never really been sick before. Emotionally, knowing that the battle has been joined has been a big lift. While there is still uncertainty, the wait is over; the plan is in place and underway, and I'm feeling good about that. I know how important a positive approach is in taking on such an adversary, even though it's sometimes hard to find that positve groove.
The chemo followed by a day the collection of some tumor tissue samples at UC that are required for the study I'm in. Not a totally pleasant procedure since I had to be semi-alert during the process, but they were able to get to some fairly accessible tumors in my liver and get core samples from them. The good news was that getting the samples was a challenge for the radiologist due to their small size.
The biopsy day followed a good Christmas with family at our house -- all my brothers and sisters, most of their children, our Matt and Jessica, and the star of the show, our grand-daughter Violet, were all in fine form. There was more than enough food and laughter for a week's worth of celebrating.
My thanks again to all my friends, family, colleagues, running buddies, doctors, and God for the support; you cannot know how much the cards, emails, walks, positive vibes and prayers are helping me in this fight for my life. God bless and peace.
Don
