A visit to the Doc

Following each round of my treatment, I am scheduled to visit with Dr. Hema5 to assess my progress and address any issues. I saw him today.

He reviewed my last treatments and asked for my report of the failed administration of rituxan and any side-effects I've suffered. While I have been experiencing moderate side-effects, none are as severe as those suffered after round one; those that drove me to the emergency room and to the hospital.

Dr. Hema5 outlined three options. The option he recommended and the one I prefer, is to continue with bendamustine alone. I inquired as the the effectiveness of bendamustine alone compared to the usual combination of bendamustine and rituxan. He reported that there has never been a head-to-head comparison made and so the result is unknown.

After some discussion, we agreed to continue with bendamustine alone. I report for round three early next month. I feel very happy that we have a solid plan to move forward. Off I step into the unknown!