David A. Lemmink

Today was our appointment with Dr. Brinker, at the Lack’s Cancer Center. This appointment was scheduled to fill us in on David’s upcoming treatment plan. With the information gleaned from Dr. O’Dorisio, along with the information from Dr. Brinker, they put together the treatment protocol for David.

David started on Sandostatin (Octreotide) on the way home last Friday. He started on the short-acting type, 3 times daily for 2 weeks. Dr, O’Dorisio suggested he start with this to see how he will tolerate it. He will then follow with the long-acting type given after 1 week. Because of the 4^th of July, he will be given that long-acting shot on Monday. This long-acting type Sandostatin will be something he will most likely be having monthly for some time, or possibly forever. The Sandostatin is what helps maintain the Carcinoid and keeps the Carcinoid syndrome at bay.

Next Monday is when David will begin chemotherapy. He will be on a 21-day rotation. 3 days at Lack’s being given the chemo and then 18 days off. Dr. Brinker said we will do 2 cycles and then a CT scan to see what the tumors look like, if they have changed, or gotten smaller, he will be given 2 more cycles. Following the 2nd cycle, Dr. Brinker will assess David to determine if he needs the 3rd cycle.

The doctor then went over all the side effects David can expect and ways to combat those side effects. This was not a long appointment. Understandably it was an upsetting and depressing day. Anyone who has experienced chemotherapy will most probably understand what is to come, and we are guessing by all the talk and information about the numerous side effects, that it is not something to look forward to.

Following our short time with Dr. Brinker, he took us to the area where they administer the chemo. It’s a nice area, with “lazy boy” type chairs and tables and such, although there isn’t much privacy if that is what you desire or need. A bit impersonal and assembly line-like. That is where he will spend those 3 days of each 21 day cycle.

After waiting a short while, a nurse, Yolanda, came to talk more about chemotherapy and its effects, and also ways to combat those effects. She gave us a packet to take home with us and then we were on our way.

That’s it. We now enjoy the week and 4^th of July weekend (with a fun party to look forward to) and then buckle down and get through the next 2-3 months.

Happy 4th of July to all!

Thank you again for all your prayers and support.

Love, Connie