Happy New Year! 2012

Hi Everyone!
Happy New Year!!!
Two updates in one month....Wow. This one is hot off the press or right after the doctors office today and thought I would share right away.
I went to the doctor today and the news is the cancer is on the move, spreading to be exact. All the tests came back from the hospital stay last week and blood work and it appears, my cancer is getting more aggressive. Darn those cancer cells, but I am bigger and tougher and together with your love and support, I am going to stay strong and fight even harder.
We now have to be aggressive with the chemo again in order to keep it in check.
The name of the Chemo is Topotecan. My doctors wants everyone to know the effects and side effects of the drug. It will be much like the first round of chemo, tired, getting sick, losing all my hair, along with the possibilities of blood transfusions, as this drug will hit my blood count. We will try this for three months to see if it works.
Below are some of the side effects just for all of your awareness. It does not mean I will get all the side effects, my history does dictate some will be an issue. I want to try this one as this is the recommendation of my team of doctors and Don and I looked it over and are aware of the good and the bad.
No traveling for me for at least a month doctor's recommend, until we know how I will react. Especially after my allergic reaction last week.
I love each of you and wish all a Happy, Healthy, and Safe New Year!
This is the name of my next chemo drug. Looks like I am in for a ride...:)

TOPOTECAN

Side Effects:

Topotecan may cause very serious blood disorders (decreased bone marrow function leading to low number of blood cells such as white cells, red cells, and platelets). This effect can decrease your body's ability to fight an infection, cause your body to bruise or bleed easier, or cause anemia. Tell your doctor if you develop any of the following conditions: signs of an infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat.
You will be closely monitored (e.g., with frequent blood tests) by your doctor while using this medication. Keep all medical and laboratory appointments.

Weakness, tiredness, headache, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and mouth sores may occur. Nausea and vomiting can be severe. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Eating several small meals, not eating before treatment, or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. If these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: pain/redness/bruising at injection site, numbness/tingling of the arms/legs, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, lung problems (such as cough, shortness of breath).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

I will keep in touch as I hope all of you do as well.
Sending Hugs,
Margie