A lot has happened since I last posted, but in synopsis I began the targeted therapy I mentioned in my last post in late fall 2021. I was at my goal dose (6 pills a day) and then I had a myriad of sicknesses all within a few weeks - flu, stomach virus, COVID - which ultimately caused me to have to stop the treatment. They called it the perfect storm. The plan was to let my body heal for a few months and then I’d try again. This time my goal dose was going to be 5 pills given I experienced a significant difference in side effects when I jumped to 6 pills the first time. I was determined to give it another chance given it’s the only drug that can prevent residual cancer cells from crossing the blood brain barrier, and can overall reduce risk of recurrence. This drug though. It’s rough. It’s not like chemo where you’re sick for a few days and then it’s over for a few weeks. It’s everyday. Every. Single. Day. It’s a mean drug. One that comes with “surprise” side effects. One minute you’re fine and the next you’re not. I won’t go into details about side effects, but it’s been a rough ride. I’m almost there. Last week I had an appt with my oncologist. It was the appt I’ve been anxiously awaiting for so long - the appt we set my end date. I’m in the LAST month right now! On January 27, 2023 I will swallow those 5 little red pills for the very last time! My oncologist says it will take some time to work out if my system and to not expect overnight results. Mentally, though, I will get immediate results. My year will have been complete. Another treatment I was able to finish. I’m so proud of myself for this one…it was a beast. I feel like I’ve taken the biggest inhale and am slowly getting to let it all go. Almost there!