Update Week of August 16

Just a quick update on my progress and where we are at with immunotherapy.

I was at Mayo on Monday for a few appointments. I did some labwork to test my cortisol level and adrenal gland functionality. While I was I on my "Mayo Vacation" as my team likes to call it, there was concern about my cortisol levels and if my adrenal gland was responding properly. Since cortisol levels are the bodies response to stress, there was some thought it might be isolated to the stress I have been under both physically and mentally but also concern it was a side effect of therapy. The results are back but I am still waiting for the doctor to weigh in on what we should explore next. The results show something is happening but I would still argue that my stress level is still elevated but I think trending in the right direction.

I met with my palliative care doctor. It is great to have him and my oncologist on my team. They truly are my cheerleaders alongside my family and friends. I continue to amaze them with my drive but definitely did scare them with how sick I was becoming. I told him that I was scared too but am definitely in a good place getting stronger every day. I am using some strategies to help keep me focused on caloric and fluid intake but did ask him what was the plan in case we found ourselves in trouble again. We discussed different options and I left with homework.

I did my overnight oximeter test to see how my oxygen levels are while I sleep. 

Overall, I left very tired and can feel the fatigue from traveling but I am confident that every day gets a little better. 

When I returned home, the cats were happy to see me. So much so, the "baby" has been snuggling with me in the recliner:

As soon as I know about immunotherapy, I will update the blog. I did tell the doctor that she was standing between me and therapy so if we could come up with a plan soon, I would be most appreciative.

For tonight . . . I'm just sayin' XOXO