Update- What's next

[BillNIttles]

I wrote awhile back, prior to my C11 PET scan at the Mayo Clinic with Dr. Kwan. I had a robotic RP in 2010, followed by 8 weeks of salvage radiation in in 2012. When my cancer returned I had my PSA doubling rate of about 9 months. My Mayo Clinic trip didn't yield good news, as my PSA jumped from to 2.9 to 7.9 since September. We found 2 cancer spots behind my bladder, not a place where I can get surgery or radiation. Dr. Kwan recommended, (because of my young age (50)), starting chemo in addition to hormone therapy. My urologist wants me to start hormone therapy, and then go on chemo after that starts to fail. My question to him was, if it is assumed that ADT will fail, why not start chemotherapy now? My medical oncologist agreed, and I will be starting treatment soon. I'm actually glad to have a plan, having felt like I was in limbo for the last three years. Thanks everybody, I'll keep you posted.

[JoelT]

Bill,

Having a plan is such an important part of dealing with this disease. By the way, it also sounds like an excellent plan.

Joel

[Moespy]

HI Bill, I just read this post and as a fellow traveler on this rocky road am wondering how you are doing? Jim

[BillNIttles]

Hi Jim, thank you for asking. I finished treatment Dec. 7th. Or at least, I had my last shot and am taking a Lupron break. I'm tired of the hot flashes and lack of energy , etc. Ironically I actually like having no libido. Far less distractions in my life. I am doing great in general.

If you've read my other posts, you'll know my chemo sucked, but it worked way great. No tumors or detectable psa. Let's hope it stays that way, we'll see. I will go back on adt if my cancer comes back but I see no reason to stay on it now. My MO sort of agreed, as she said there is no right or wrong thing for me.

I read your posts, what are you up to? Have you decided on a course of treatment, or are you in treatment? I hope you are you doing well.

Take care

Bill