Hello everyone,

I started Kisqali (a CDC 4/6) inhibitor in March. It's not been studied for metastatic ocular melanoma, but the molecular profile of my tumors suggests that it may help to slow tumor growth. For the first few days that I took it, I had trouble keeping it down. But Eryn, an oncology nurse practitioner, and Lynn Cave, a fellow patient, offered great advice on how to keep it down.  I finished the first 21-day course of Kisqali then had 7 days off drug. I started the second 21-day course today, and was able to keep my first dose down.  

My pain level varies from day to day. I am wearing a fentanyl patch and take oral oxycodone for breakthrough pain. In the past few days, my pain has been under pretty good control. I still sleep a lot more and have less energy than I am used to, but can still rally to do things that are important to me, like going dancing and getting together with family and friends. My Mom's side of the family had a belated Easter gathering this past weekend, which I enjoyed immensely. Bridget's 1970s-themed birthday party was a blast (see photo), and Sean and I watched the solar eclipse (listening to Dark Side of the Moon) until it got clouded out. 

My white blood cell and lymphocyte counts are low, which is probably due to both the chemotherapy preceding my TIL treatment and the Kisquali. 

I will have scans (CT of chest and pelvis; MRI of brain and abdomen) the week of April 22 to see what is going on inside.

Sean and I are very grateful for all of the support from friends and family. Both the food and the gift cards have been especially freeing.  When you are finally in the mood to eat, then boom you can order it.

I will update the Meal Train soon.  Enjoy the beautiful spring weather! 

Love,

Kristin