Treatment Plan Update

Putting together my treatment plan involved the coordination of my ENT surgeon, Oncologist, IBS doctors, and the St Vincent’s Ambulatory care team. It’s a powerful reminder of how incredibly fortunate I am to have such an amazing team supporting me in my challenge with cancer. Their expertise and the way they work as a team ensures I have the best care and treatment options available.

Recent Operation

From my operation a few weeks back, I’m happy to report that things are healing well. It looks like the laser managed to navigate around the cancer, although the margins are very tight.

TMB Score Update

The results of the TMB score (which helps indicate the potential effectiveness of immunotherapy) came back at 30, significantly lower than the 80 it was in 2023. However, it’s still above 20, which is positive, and there were some issues with the test that suggest the number could have been higher.

Next Steps

I restarted immunotherapy on Wednesday and will also receive infusions of Vedolizumab (though I might be misremembering the name) for the first three rounds to proactively manage colitis. Radiation treatment was ruled out since the new area was previously affected by radiation and we’ve decided to reserve chemotherapy as a backup option in case the cancer returns more aggressively, as its effectiveness diminishes with each dose, and we’re confident in the success of the operation.

Another immediate surgery isn’t necessary at this time, though further and continued laser surgery may be an option if the cancer reappears. Close monitoring will help stay on top of any changes, and my tendency to cough up blood if something is wrong will aid in this as well 🙂

Moving Forward

Overall, this is a good outcome for now. It allows me to enjoy a reasonably healthy Christmas and even fit in a trip to NZ before starting my second round of treatment on January 9th.

As I probably won’t post again this year, I want to give a massive thank you to everyone who has helped me over the past 12 months. There have been a few challenges but I’ve had an amazing year filled with lasting memories and wonderful moments. I am profoundly grateful for the unwavering help, guidance, encouragement, presence and love of my incredible family and friends, their kindness, loyalty, devotion, perseverance have exceeded anything I could have ever asked for. Their support has made all of this possible.

Thank you!