Another Mystery

We had such high hopes for the week last Saturday, but things just didn't work out. Linda had some lingering chest pain after the Thoracentesis procedure last Friday, and we were led to believe that would subside by the next day. Unfortunately, it didn't. In fact, it got worse as the weekend progressed. So while we had a great time with Andrea over the weekend, Linda was on Tylenol or Vicodin most of the time. We called the doctor on Monday morning, and before noon we were back at Besthesda North for more blood tests and an electrocardiogram. The Oncologist was still baffled by the loss of protein through her remaining kidney, so we ended up seeing the Kidney specialist on Thursday. By this time the pain had migrated to her back, and by Friday it was in her abdomen. Dr. Bhandari said it was not likely directly related to tumor growth since it was moving around so much. The chest pain was a real concern to him, as there have recently been reported heart problems associated with Sutent use. More blood tests on Thursday, still more on Friday, as well as an echocardiogram and a chest x-ray. He indicated that he is less and less inclined to stick with Sutent, and is considering a different medication. For now that means another week off treatment. And in addition to seeing an Endocrinologist for the thyroid, a Nephrologist for the kidney, we now have an appointment to see a Cardiologist this Thursday. Hopefully by next Friday Bhandari will have some answers when we see him again.

In the meantime, Tony's in for the weekend! This usually means wood gets cut, fires get made (in the fireplace, that is) and piles of crap we have around the house get sorted and stored. We wish we knew where his neat streak came from. Also, if you'd like to know the sex of Andrea and Chris' baby, check the link on the lower right that says "Andrea and Chris' Baby Blog". (Warning: graphic pictures and nudity are on this site--that is, the ultrasound shows the baby naked.)

Luv ya,

Jim and Linda