Dave has an appointment with his Savannah oncologist this coming Friday, 9/27. We will be discussing the what, when and how's of his adjuvant (additional) treatment. It's been recommended both by this doctor, as well as the melanoma specialists at MD Anderson, that Dave have the "standard of care" interferon treatment. We've been referring to it as chemotherapy, but technically it is not, it is immunotherapy. However, it is toxic, with many potential side effects, and is given intravenously for 20 days (Monday-Friday for four weeks) so people tend to call it chemo.
After the first month, Dave will inject himself 3 times a week with a lower dosage for the next 48 weeks or more. If he gets through the first month (the 20 treatments) without many side effects, he may instead get a higher dosage injection just once a week instead of the 3x/wk. To be determined...
Dave is eager to get started. He says, "The sooner I get started, the sooner I'll finish." He has a great attitude and is certain he will not be an invalid. He is out kayaking today, and has been swimming almost daily to get his strength up. I like his attitude!
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