So, the update for today:
The oncology doctor met with us this morning and we discussed chemotherapy treatment options. There were two. One is more toxic than the other, so he recommended the less toxic to be able to keep some quality of life while undergoing treatment. We pretty much agree.

He will probably get his first dose today or tomorrow. Then it will be once a week for a total of 3 weeks, then one week off. This will go on for 2 months, then they will do another CT scan to see how it is working. If working, he will continue with chemo basically for the rest of his life with time off for good behavior if we want to take a vacation or something. That can be worked around. The doctor is very concerned about having quality of life.

There are, of course, side effects to be expected. This regimen seems to have less hair loss and stomach issues. It can cause problems with red blood cells so might need transfusions. And white cell count, so infections could set in. Also can cause neuropathy in the hands and feet. Fatigue is also common with any chemo.

The doctor just came back in and we are going to get started on it today. And the good news with that is they moved out his roommate and he now gets a private room. Yay!

He is also on a heparin drip (blood thinner) to try to get the clots under control. That is why he is in hospital since neither the warfarin or the Lovenox was working. Once that gets under control he will be on the injectable Lovenox twice a day instead of once like he was. His right leg is still very painful and they have him on oxycodone orally and injecting morphine every few hours.

He just got up and walked down the hall twice – first time since Sunday he has done more than go to the bathroom. He also took a shower – Yay! Hasn’t shaved for a couple weeks tho.

I have made the calls to get his retirement going and have also started the application for Social Security disability. We are trying to get this all in the works as it takes a couple of months for both.

Just to be clear, there is no cure for pancreatic cancer in his case. The chemo if it works well with him, may increase his life span for a couple of years. Or, he may have just a few months. They just don’t know.

This is what is taking a while for us both to digest. His brother stopped by today but he doesn’t want anymore company for a couple of days while he adjusts to this idea of death. It is hard on both of us to talk about and to see others, so give a little time. Email and text message are fine.

Follow up email 1/29

Darrel had his first chemo tonight. Two different drugs in two infusions. He did not have any allergic reactions, so that is really good. Side effects don’t typically show up for about a week, so he is feeling fine.

I have contacted most everyone that I could think of or left messages for those I couldn’t get a hold of, so it is okay to spread word. If I missed someone, I’m sorry, but it is hard to remember everyone and harder still to talk about. Again, just ask that they email or text me until at least Friday.

Thanks again for all your offers of support. I know it is there when we need it in the future.

Still not sure when he will be out.