As I mentioned last time, one of my tumors is growing, so I'm about to begin a new chemo pill. I will continue to take the other one (Tykerb) but will also begin taking Xeloda. The doctors are hoping the tumor will shrink and they can perform radiosurgery again in November. They don't want to do the surgery more than once in a calendar year.
The side effects of Xeloda are supposed to be about the same as Tykerb. However, it is quite expensive. It is a specialty medication so the copay is up there. Tykerb is too, but the pharmacy had some kind of coupon they applied to the cost. They don't have one for Xeloda. This is NOT something that a cancer patient should have to worry about, but it all too often is. The pharmaceutical companies in this country make way too much money. Yes, I understand that it takes a lot to initially fund the research to develop medications and I am thankful for that research; however, there should be assistance for those of us who can't take out a 2nd mortgage to pay the deductibles. Money should not be a factor when deciding whether or not to take a particular medication.
But I'm thankful. I'm thankful for my sweet husband who ALWAYS stands by me; I'm thankful for the doctors who have diagnosed and are treating my disease; I'm thankful that I found Usborne, a company that has a mission to promote literacy and allows me to completely work from Facebook; I'm thankful for my sweet, beautiful Lucy who lights up my world every time I see her; I'm thankful for my kids who love me; but I'm most thankful for my wonderful Savior Who is always with me and helping me through each day.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. ~ Philippians 4:13
