Mark's 2nd Infusion with Yervoy and Opdivo was one week ago - Monday, October 21st. The first infusion had limited side effects -- rashes that can be controlled with prescription creams, and some fatigue. But, this time was not so easy. The day after this infusion Mark had some dizzy spells and nausea. On Wednesday a headache came on that would not go away. Initially, Tylenol helped but as the week wore on, the pain became more intense, especially at night. Fatigue became more pronounced and the nausea was almost continual. The nausea would subside when he would lie down, but the headache would intensify. He could never get comfortable and away from some kind of discomfort. Saturday evening he had some confusion - not recognizing the names of some of our grandchildren. He felt like his brain just wouldn't connect the dots - it felt blank. Sunday evening he came home from meetings in the evening totally spent, with his head pounding. If he would sneeze or bend down to pick up something, he felt like his head would explode. He slept for a few hours, but by early Monday morning (today), he was feeling trapped with pain, nausea and exhaustion. Mark texted Dr. Urba with more details of his symptoms. Dr. Urba immediately ordered an MRI. Within a half-hour Mark got a call that he could come in at 10:15 am. It was 9:40 at the time so we left immediately.
After the MRI we had an appointment with Dr. Urba and his assistant, Amy. They pulled up the results of the scan and showed us that the pituitary gland which is normally quite small, was enlarged. This is one of the side effects that can happen and one that needs to be caught early, as it can cause irreversible issues. The Pituitary gland is the master gland that governs all other glands and hormones in the body. Mark will go on Prednisone, a steroid to decrease inflammation, for several weeks to possibly a month to get the gland back to normal. Infusions will be on hold until this situation is rectified. Mark was also given prescription pain and nausea medications. Shortly after taking his first dose of each, he felt better than he has felt in days. Hallelujah!
Again we are thankful to have an amazing doctor who is so responsive, for the miracle of modern medicine, and for your faith, prayers and loving thoughts!!!
We love you guys so very much and are praying for better days and strength to you both!!!!
ReplyDeleteLots of love and prayers for you both!
ReplyDeleteKeeping you both in prayer for Gods continual touch and blessings ahead!
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness! Knowing this, I’m even more grateful that we got to spend time with you for Bria’s wedding! We love you both so much!!! Continued thoughts and prayers being sent. ❤️
ReplyDeleteHello dear Ane, my husband has multiple myeloma. He was given a year and we will be starting our 8 th year in January. Ane we created a motto
ReplyDelete“ keep one hand in heaven”
it blurrs that line between heaven and earth and somehow for us it has made it easier to receive heavenly help from those on the other side. Dear Ane and Mark prayers of so many who love you are coming your way...forever, Curt and Nancy
We are traveling this road together! Mark was diagnosed in February of 2012 so we're coming up to the 8 year mark, as well. Thanks for the insights. There have been so many sweet experiences along the way. We are sending love and prayers your way, too! Hugs, Mark & Ane
DeleteThanks for all of your love and support!!! He is feeling SO MUCH BETTER!!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a hard road to travel! I'm so glad the medications have helped with pain and nausea. Thanks for this update--prayers will happen. Love you both
ReplyDelete