Andrew is struggling with side effects from Friday’s chemo. The first day and a half was all nausea; now it’s severe fatigue. All of the above makes it very difficult to eat and drink or leave the bed. 

This morning we went to Memorial Sloan Kettering. A doctor here, Eileen O’Reilly, is very well known for treating pancreas cancer, and even though we’ve been happy with NYU, we wanted to hear her opinions on Andrew’s treatment, prognosis, and any access to clinical trials that he wouldn’t get at NYU.

Both Dr. O’Reilly and her fellow agreed that Andrew was in good hands at NYU, especially while he continues to deal with a complex set of issues outside of cancer (clotting, strokes, etc.). They agreed with his treatment plan, but did suggest a lower dosage of chemo drugs that he could tolerate better next time. Overall, they were positive about outcomes—not a cure, but the idea of feeling better and enjoying more time without severe symptoms.

While we’ll stay at NYU, they suggested we follow up for another consultation at the next decision point, specifically when/if Andrew can pause active treatment and move into a maintenance phase with therapies besides chemo. That way, Dr. O'Reilly can be part of that decision without taking him away from other doctors we like and need to stay connected to at NYU. Andrew has not been super alert today but confirmed that he likes that plan.

While at Sloan, Andrew’s heart rate shot up to 250 on the vitals machine. It quickly came back down, and an EKG was normal(ish). They're cautiously willing to chalk it up to a faulty machine issue—but encouraged me to email his cardiologist as an FYI. I expect to hear from him today, and we'll see what he thinks. Sloan also kept us after the appointment to do IV fluids to hopefully give Andrew a little more pep. We’re still here now, hoping to get the all clear to head home soon. He says he doesn't feel like a million bucks, but maybe $1,000 post-fluids. A few hours ago I'm sure he would've said $5 max. 

Did I mention we are moving? We did not have enough stressful events happening in our lives and decided to add another. We’re going from the 6th floor of our building to a three bedroom on the 2nd floor. Fortunately, not far, and we’ve been able to do a lot of moving and organizing (with help from friends) ourselves. Movers will finish up on Thursday. The new place has a small patio, which Andrew is looking forward to enjoying.