The Real McCoy...

Thursday was a Triple Word Score kind of day. 

The first score was a good read from the lab on Tracy's liver enzyme levels.  After the prior week's enzyme level roller coaster, it was a relief to have test out a still somewhat elevated, but acceptable level.

Number two was hearing that we (ha) would not have to make up the week 8 “snow day” (due to elevated enzymes). Yay! So 12 weeks still means 12 weeks, so we finish chemo on time.

Number three was the kicker.   If you recall, Tracy’s been part of a clinical trial for Avastin (arrgh! – remember – piratespeak) otherwise officially known as the “Phase III Randomized Study of Adjuvant Therapy Comprising Doxorubicin Hydrochloride, Cyclophosphamide, and Paclitaxel With Versus Without Bevacizumab in Patients With Lymph Node-Positive or High-Risk, Lymph Node-Negative Breast Cancer” trial. http://www.cancer.gov/search/ViewClinicalTrials.aspx?cdrid=528955&version=HealthProfessional&protocolsearchid=8781700  

Since we were now (still) on track schedule-wise, Thursday was the last Avastin infusion.  As trial was double-blinded, neither our treatment team, nor us knew if Tracy was receiving Avastin or saline over the last three months.  We did know at some point that the trial would be unblended – but we didn’t know it would be Thursday!  The short version is – Dr. Hammond was informed, and then informed us that Tracy had been receiving the Real McCoy – Avastin.  Aside from the potentially positive effects of bevacizumab (tongue twisting generic name for Avastin), it validated the additional time spend in the infusion pod over the last 5 months, as well as the additional stress from the elevated enzymes.

More tomorrow.