Thurs., Dec. 29, 2011 - Different game plan...still fighting

First, let me thank those who offered good thoughts or prayers for Hardee's nose bleed to stop on Tuesday.  The bleed stopped quickly, and we haven't had anymore blood since then.  We delayed our agility trip plans by a day to make sure, and the clot even held during Hardee's weekly bath.

Since I wrote last, I still had not called and discussed things with the oncologist that did Hardee's scan last week.  It was Christmas, and we just didn't want to have to talk about cancer for a couple days.  Sometimes, it is just nice to try and pretend that things aren't the way they really are (as best you can), to escape reality, and take a couple days off.  Since we were going to be in SoCal anyway this week, I called and scheduled an appointment so we could talk face to face with the oncologist instead of over the phone.  Of course, Hardee was going to wait in the car instead of going inside after what happened last week.

When we got to our appointment and found out the oncologist that had done Hardee's scan didn't come in to that office as planned that day, I was pretty upset.  There was another oncologist there that we could see, but the thought of starting fresh with another oncologist after a year and a half was almost unthinkable to me.  It turned out to be the best thing ever, and I really liked her!!!  She had some fresh ideas and a different perspective, and was very willing to work within our parameters.  Also, before Dr T saw us, she called down to the Carlsbad office to consult with Dr P and Dr O about Hardee's case.  Dr T is only at the Ontario office 2 days per week, but if we can work it out, we will only try and schedule with her from now on.

Dr T accepted our decision to not pursue further radiation on the new tumors.  Yes, new tumors, as the radiologist report stated that the cancer had spread to both frontal sinuses in HH's forehead, instead of just the left frontal sinus that we saw on the scan from last week.  Dr T talked to us about a newer chemo pill that we can give at home called Palladia.  Palladia has only been out for about 2 years and has been used for Mast Cell Tumor cancers, but there is a new study starting up at Washington State that is trying it on nasal carcinomas.  Though Hardee fits all the criteria for the study for the free expensive meds, check-ups, and CT scans, we cannot travel to Washington and be there long term. 

Though the research I've read on Palladia isn't good, we are trying it anyway.  We are on last ditch efforts here.  The efficacy of Palladia is only about 40% and of the 40% whose tumors did shrink, it was short lived (3 months) and then the tumors grew right back.  Palladia also has a very high percentage of nasty side effects.  Hardee will start the Palladia this Monday, Jan. 2, 2012 and will get it every Mon., Wed., and Fri.  We are giving him a low dose (50 mg) instead of the 80 mg recommended (hopefully it is enough to help), and we can stop the drug at any time.

Dr. T started Hardee on a stronger antibiotic to see if it helps control some of the drainage coming from his nose.  We also talked to her about a sedative to give Hardee when we have to bring him back in for blood work in 2 weeks.  The sedative, Acepromazine, does nothing for Hardee, so Dr T wrote a script for Valium.  I hope it works!  We also got a script for Gabepentin (Neurontin) to see if that helps control his pain, along with the Tramadol.  HH rubs his face and head on anything he can, and he bats at it with his front legs/paws.  I fear his pain, but Dr T doesn't think he is in horrible pain, though she does agree that it has to bother him quite a bit.  Since the nose is so innervated, we are trying the "nerve drug" Neurontin to see if it helps.


Well, here it is Jan. 21, 2012.  It's been 3.5 weeks since I started this post.  So much for my new year's resolution to stop procrastinating.  A busy life out having fun with the little Bubs keeps getting in the way.  At least it is still all about joy and all about Hardee!


I'll write an update soon about the last 3.5 weeks, hopefully......