I always try to look forward, versus looking back and wondering and second guessing.I live my life looking through the windshield versus the rear view mirror.
So today we find ourselves at a cross roads, it's time for a decision and a change.My appointment yesterday with my Oncologist was a real kick in the teeth. It seems my PSA decided to take a rather unexpected leap. It rose from 103 to 158.9! Wow, where did that come from? I feel like I was blindsided.
At first I was pretty bummed out as you can imagine. We knew we were playing a little bit of Russian roulette when we decided to switch back to my current medications last fall. At first we had no idea if it would work at all and if it did how long it would last. We were looking for and received stability, we got it for almost six months. On a positive note it got us through the fall, the holidays, a number of birthdays and more. I believe it was the right thing for us to do at the time. I have no regrets.
That being said, we now move on. On Friday I'll have another full body bone scan. I was due anyway,but now the need is more pressing and the results may be more revealing. I'll also have another PSA just to make sure there were no lab errors, etc. I'm not expecting this to be the case, since this is the same lab I have been using for three years. With the results in hand we'll meet with Dr. V next Monday and decide the proverbial "what next"? At this point we are leaning towards starting DES, aka, estrogen supplements. At this point I'm not ready for another round of chemo. Additionally, my Alkaline Phosphate and Circulating Tumor Cell levels remain 'normal'. Additionally, the hip and leg pain I have been experiencing appears to related to some mild arthritis. Given this news and all of the test scores, we are focusing on getting my PSA level down. Using DES may be the best method for us to achieve this goal.
I'm not sure what else to share at this point in time. It's just another chapter in what has become my sardonic life.
16 comments:
Hang in there Dave. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help. I am happy to put you in touch with anyone you would like.
Prayin' for you, my friend.
R
Stay strong and positive, Dave - two of the best things you can do for yourself, as you already know. We're all keeping good thoughts and best wishes for you!
Barbara Ray
Good luck David! We'll continue to keep you in our prayers! Stay strong and above all - Positive!
Tiffini and I have you, Mary and Brad in our thoughts constantly. We are praying every day for your strength to deal with what comes your way. I'm here too, if you need to talk, vent or whatever.
Your friend,
Kirk
We don't know what we don't know! We just have to run this leg of the relay as best we can. I'm with you in positive thoughts and prayers, Bro.
Sorry to see this Dave. I wonder if you have ever been in touch with Dr Premoli in Argentina. He has done a deal of work with estrogen patches and has impressive results. His e-mail address is fernandopremoli@argentina.com
It might be worth an e-mail
You're in my thoughts and prayers Dave! Keep up that great spirit of yours!
Paula Fowler
Hey David I know how you feel. My PSA has gone from 89 to 269 today in less than 45 days. We both have a lot of life to live. I'll keep you in my prayers. Merle
David ,
I think You are on the right track to give DES a try . O Sartor said He has seen DES work when E patches fail .You are a great example of how to live a life.My thoughts and prayers are with you that we can stablize this thing.sincerely
Dan J
David
On a good note it is good that Your alk phos is normal as that would indicate a lack of bone activity.also low ctc is good
Spring is coming soon now.
DJ
Disheartening news! Have you looked at abiraterone trials?I'm going to take my chances on that and hope for a few months or years if I'm not in the placebo arm. David, keep your spirit strong. You have been a source of inspiration to me and my family. --Dan in Utah
DES is not a bad option. I am certain that there will be success with it. I know a couple in the groups I work in that have done quite well. Your PAP and CTC's are good, so I would keep the faith on the PSA coming down.
Love ya David. We'll talk soon!
I hope the season of Lent brings you much peace...
Tony Crispino
Hi David
I was also diagnosed at 42, about three yeas from now, and was operated at that time. Just a couple of weeks ago I got the bad news of PSA recurrence.
Thanks for this site. I hope you can still enjoy life, in spite of the challenges.
R
David,
Just as you are always positive with us and believe that these setbacks are just speedbumps, we know you will weather this storm. You provide a lot of good in a place with a lot of confusion. I know that God is watching over you and we are in constant prayer for a successful resolution to this little blip. All my love and prayers.
Brian W- Utah (Soon to be StL)
David
You are an inspiration. I hope that the next stage in your journey goes well for you and your family.
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