Since the 2nd week of January, I have been going every two weeks for an infusion which takes about 2 hours. The "side effects" have been minimal. Fatigue for 3-5 days after each infusion. Now, that doesn't mean I'm great the rest of the time. I still have issues from just having one lung, but, that is my new normal.
About 3 weeks ago I did have a scare. I caught a cold. Cancer patients have very bad immune systems to fight of infection. When on Opdivo, no one really knows what it does to your immune system, so I have to be very careful where I go and who I am around.
Anyway, the cold really got me. It was a coincidence that same week I had an appointment with my Lung (Pulmonary Doctor) who was not pleased with my cold and inability to get proper oxygen in my lungs. She immediately gave me a breathing treatment and put me on a strong antibiotic. Luckily, it worked and within several days I was feeling better.
Soooo.....I continue to go every two weeks for Opdivo infusions. I will not have scans until May to check if it is working. That makes me a bit anxious to wait that long but apparently it takes up to 2 months for the Opdivo to put my immune system in "hyper mode." (for lack of a better term). Once it reaches that special level, then it makes my immune system target the cancer cells and kill them. So they want me on it another 2 more months believing that would be sufficient time to see if it is doing what it's supposed to do.
My inspiration EVERYDAY!! My beautiful grandson, Cameron. He's the best <3 <3
And, I listen to this recording my daughter, Maria, made several years ago. It gives me courage and strength to continue on. Click on her name to see it.
Maria Toth
And, I listen to this recording my daughter, Maria, made several years ago. It gives me courage and strength to continue on. Click on her name to see it.
Maria Toth
