Last Thursday (27th March) I saw my Oncologist. Blood pressure was fine after starting a new drug (Amlodipine) to combat the raising effects of Abiraterone, So far so good. Blood sample was also good. I expected to be given some news regarding my future Radiotherapy which I understood to be starting this, or next week. It has been put back by some 4 weeks and I had to fill in a form for Birmingham hospital. I had requested Derby as my first choice for practical reasons. Cost & travelling times. Treatment after the initial scans on the first session, takes around 7-10 minutes I understand. If I was having treatment in Derby depending on the time of day I could leave home using public transport and be back home within 2 1/2 hrs free of charge. Birmingham on the other hand is a 70+ mile round trip, it will have to be by train or drive, not a cheap option, the possibility of overcrowded trains 5 days a week for 7 weeks. I understand the radiotherapy is not what you might call invigorating, the first 2 week are fine, normally, but after that.......watch out . Driving perhaps is not recommended.
I have been told that Derby is somewhat understaffed, overworked and is run by a locum, so therefor, I might be refused treatment on those grounds. My Research Sister is meeting with said locum this week & will get back to me with the decision after their meeting.
Apart from my setback, I feel fine, there seem to be no side effect from my drugs, unlike some folk who are on the same course as myself. I consider myself to be very fortunate in that. My Good Lady is due for a knee replacement shortly, my youngest son has been signed off work for another 4 weeks, so both have big mobility problems. Currently I am shopping, cooking, cleaning for the three of us (4 on Tuesdays Dad come for the afternoon he has to be collected & returned home) The next few months are going to be very interesting indeed.
I have to close now, I have to take My Good Lady to hospital 1st of several weekly sessions.
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