Thursday, July 2nd
Back in treatment. We collectively decided to start Interleukin 2 on Friday, June 3rd.
Interleukin 2 is by far the most toxic and brutal treatment on the market. I had to pass a full physical exam, blood work, organ function tests, etc. just to be eligible to do this.
I will be monitored closely but the common side effects are nausea/vomiting, “rigors” or uncontrollable shivering, hallucinations, extreme flu-like symptoms, etc. Unfortunately, the internet has been a nightmare with Interleukin 2 research, offering only horror stories. The suicide rate is even substantial during this treatment. Crazy! The good thing is that treatment lasts only 5 days maximum, and then I get a week off. Every side effect eventually reverses itself.
Even though there’s only a 15% chance this will give me any improvement, my doctor believes that if it does work it may be a cure. Keep your fingers crossed!
I’ll have my port put in Thursday and Friday treatment will start. Keep sending me your positive thoughts and prayers. I truly believe it’s all working!
Some people wanted an update on how I’m feeling right now…
Overall I still feel alright. I’m much weaker than before and as of today, I’ve lost 18lbs. I can hold the guitar for about 20 minutes but the effects of the surgery won’t let me for much longer. I have written several new songs though! Elizabeth thinks they’re the best songs yet, but who’s gonna tell someone with cancer his songs suck? :) I even have some studio time in Louisville next month if I’m feeling up to it!
A special thanks to Sean Money for taking time out of his crazy schedule to manage this blog. Writing or typing my experiences for this site is so therapeutic for me. It gives me a sense of communication with my friends, especially in Charleston, during this treatment. Someone buy Sean a bourbon for me, but save me a seat cause I know this will be over soon!
