The dichotomy that is my life, today.

It's Christmas, the birth of Christ and all that represents, new life, new beginnings etc. and so on. Tomorrow we go see my Urologist to discuss next steps; chemotherapy, radiation, experimentation. Both are full of unknowns; one you look forward to the discovery of and living through, the other you dread and pray to God that it's ultimate conclusion is one that is positive.

We managed to get through the weekend without issue. We agreed that though it's not good, we won’t know anything until tomorrow. So it was a "normal" weekend of disc golf (25 degrees and a light snow - it was beautiful).

So, it you are interested, here are the two avenues that lie ahead. This is likely not an either/or, both will be administered:

Radiation therapy: a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated. Impotence and urinary problems may occur in men treated with radiation therapy. [in my case external beam is about the only thing that will help]

Chemotherapy: Taxotere® belongs to the taxane class of chemotherapy drugs. The active ingredient in Taxotere® is derived from the needles of the European yew tree (Taxus baccata). In 2004, Taxotere®, in combination with prednisone, was FDA approved for the treatment of patients with androgen-independent (hormone-refractory) metastatic prostate cancer. In addition, Taxotere®, in combination with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide, has been approved by the FDA for the adjuvant treatment of patients with operable, node-positive breast cancer. Taxotere® continues to be tested in clinical trials for various stages of many types of cancer. As a testament to its potential, in 2004 alone the American Society of Clinical Oncology accepted over 200 abstracts of studies with Taxotere® regimens for its annual meeting. Numerous studies are ongoing, that may offer promising new therapeutic options for healthcare professionals and their patients.
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Sounds exciting! As I told Mary last night, I am not scared, seriously. Worried, oh course but I don’t have time for fear.