Today was the start of Delayed Intensification. It is a two month phase, and it's just as the name suggests, more intense chemo. So we went to clinic, where she got several different chemo medicines, first an anti-nausea medicine to keep her from vomiting, then vincristine, doxorubicin (a new one for her), and IT methotrexate (into the spinal fluid). We also started the steroid again when we got home, and she was NOT happy about taking oral meds again. She is already not feeling well today, she's had a lot of meltdowns since clinic. She didn't want to go today. Neither did I.
Here is how this phase will go: The first month will be very similar to induction, except the steroids are a week on and a week off, and she will have the new drug, doxorubicin. Side effects: nausea/vomiting, hair loss, pink urine (the drug is red), low blood counts, and mouth sores. They have to check her heart function, because this drug can cause heart damage. They usually see it more in higher doses than what Brinley is getting. We will go in every week to get the vincristine and doxorubicin. The second month will be all new drugs. The oncologist said the second month can be rough on the body, and we will probably see a lot of low blood counts. So we will plan on not getting out much and limiting visitors. Dr. Druzgal said most kids wind up in-patient for part of this phase. She will go in on Monday to get a PEG shot in her leg, the same one she had during induction. Then she'll go in every Thursday for her chemo. I think we are looking at a long couple of months, but then we will be on to Long Term Maintenance!!

8 comments:

Stacy said...

Give Brinley a hug and kiss from me and then tell her to give you a hug from me. This is rough - we are praying that things will go well. Hang in there! Love you guys.

Anonymous said...

We will throw ina couple of extra prayers for all of your family, especially Brinley.

Anonymous said...

Thanks Kristin for keep us informed abaut Brinley. And I know how rough it is to take permanent desicion abaut such a delicated subjet, I admire you Kristin and you and David and Brinley are in our thoughts permanently, and our prayers that your strength will be enlarge, and you can allways she the litht shine even in those difficult moments. And I know that the little angel that you carrie now will help you to. Love ya. Lidia

Huenu said...

My Dear Sista, my thoughts and heart are with you today, I know you can do this, tough as it will be. I'll be glad to come up next week and help if you need me, Thursday thru Sunday I can be yours so please don't hesitate to ask, I would love to help in some way. Hang in there, one breath at a time. Love, H.

Lidia said...

Kristin and David, please print in your brain that everything will be okey. Remember: YOU ARE NOT ALONE. The Lord Jesus and Our Heavenly Father are permanently blessing to you. Angels are around you. YOU ARE NOT ALONE...I have a permanently pray in my heart and mind asking my God to bless you our beloved children. I love you and be sure: "...I know that my Redeemer live...". He is protecting you and your beautiful children. Please, don't be afraid. Our Savior is helping and protecting you. Grandpa Torres.

John Hanks said...

Jump in, sit down, buckle up and hang on. We'll be with you.

Krista and crew said...

I think of you and your family often and wish for you strength, hope, and health this year!

Anonymous said...

Hi All, I just wanted to let you all know that we have you in our prayers and in our heart. I miss you and love you. take care Connie & Doug,