We met with Beth’s doctor, Dr, T this morning. Beth’s tumor markers have tripled in the last three weeks. Not Good. Nine weeks ago they were at 30. Six weeks ago they jumped to over 100. Three weeks ago they were at 200 and today they are 668. Her tumor markers being elevated was somewhat expected as we chose to stop Chemo three weeks ago, but her tumor markers tripling in three weeks was a shock to us.
Dr T also said Beth’s liver function looks worse and shows signs of the start of liver failure. Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme found in the bloodstream. Alkaline phosphatase helps break down proteins in the body. Normal Alkaline phosphatase levels in women are usually between 20-90. Beth’s Alkaline phosphatase levels are 611. She mentioned that she is surprised that Beth is not showing more signs of liver failure, specifically jaundice, confusion and disorientation.
We discussed what the next steps should be and Dr T asked us if we want to continue the Herceptin and Perjeta infusions which are used to help slow down the cancer growth. She was unable to tell us if Beth had NOT had Herceptin and Perjeta three weeks ago if her tumor markers would have been even higher today. So despite not knowing exactly how effective the Herceptin and Perjeta infusions have been and because they do not have any major side effects we are going to go ahead with the infusion today. We then need to make a decision if in three weeks we will come back out to Chicago and have another infusion (most likely not).
After today, if we chose to stop all treatments including Herceptin and Perjeta then the next step would be home hospice care to help manage her pain and make sure she comfortable. Insurance will not allow for home hospice care while the patient is currently under-going treatment. In the meantime Dr T strongly suggested Beth be on pain meds around the clock and to start taking anti-anxiety medication. She said Beth’s pain should never get to above a 1 or 2 (on a pain scale of 1-10). Beth tries to toughen it out and usually lets her pain get to a 6 or 7 before she finally breaks and takes pain meds. Dr T also is starting her on steroids to increase her energy and appetite.
Today is nothing we were not prepared for. We knew this was a very likely outcome. What we are struggling with is how fast and aggressive the cancer is moving. If things continue at the same rate, four to six months seems like a very tough goal to reach. Nevertheless we will stay optimistic and know that we are not in charge. 
#BattleTogether
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9 comments:
Beth, you are just as beautiful as always. Your smile comes from your strength and your soul, which are beautifully deep. I continue to pray for you and your family and that I have the faith and strength you do. Know you are such a wonderful person, you have TONS of people who love and wish the best for you. May He continue to give you what you need every day.
I am so sorry. I love this picture of you beautiful people! You are pillars of strength and I look up to you so much! I'm sending lots of love and prayers! And lots and lots of hugs!
Beth, Alan, and kiddos...I have been thinking of you all often and definitely have you in my prayers. It is so hard to know what to say or what to do because I want to be helpful and not intrusive - which is part of why I am commenting anonymously. I want you all to know that I am so very humbled by your openness, honesty, and faith. Your ability to find humor, grace, and love through this most challenging of obstacles is a testament to the love you share for each other. I cannot begin to imagine what you are all going through, but I hope you feel the love and strength that all of us are sending you every day. #battletogether
Beth, you are a very special person to us. I haven't been able to get to know you the way I wish I could have, because of our life circumstances, but I am so grateful for the example you have set for Emily and Anna, and for the wonderful friend and Aunt you've been to them. You are a warrior, just like my mother. I have been able to reflect on my mother's journey and you can take great hope in knowing that after my mother moved on, my siblings and I all had miracles pour down upon us and blessings that were almost more than we could handle. We were being cared for and loved from forces unseen on high. Although we miss her immensely, we are aware we are being watched over and that someone is behind the scenes lining up the moon and the stars just right to bless us. We know she's doing this. Everything will be alright, because of the great lessons you have already imparted in your children's lives and because our faith tells us what lies ahead, and that we'll all end up together in a spectacular place. Thank you for your courage, your faith, your beautiful smile that has amazed and impressed me so many times. WE LOVE YOU! Kristyn
Much love and prayers coming your way tonight from the Vazquez family!
Much love and prayers coming your way tonight from the Vazquez family!
Love and prayers coming your way. I was watching Alan's snapchats of you two in Chicago and all I could think of was 1 Cor 13:4-7. You two never fail to amaze me. Knowing your family the past 4 years has taught me more about charity, hope, compassion, temperance, and faith than I could have imagined. Love you guys.
Please know we are praying for you and your family. We love u!
Beth and Alan, prayers for you both and your family from the CCC Sunrise Hoops brothers. We will keep you lifted up before our Heavenly Father from who all mercies flow.
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