Immunotherapy it is!

We got back from the World Cup yesterday afternoon and shortly thereafter I had a telehealth visit with Dr. Robinson. We talked about moving forward with immunotherapy as Dr. Rossi is in favor, as well.

Today I had a telehealth visit with the Family Nurse Practitioner at Zimmer, and we went over some of the specifics of this treatment, including dates and times.

Each cycle of immunotherapy will be 6 weeks long. On Day One, I will receive two drugs - Nivolumab and Ipilimumab. On Days 15 and 28, I will receive only Nivolumab. Day One will last roughly three hours. Days 15 & 28 will last roughly an hour to an hour and a half. We did not discuss how many cycles, but so far, we have two and a half rounds on the calendar. That will take us into mid-September. As I learned during chemo, dates are subject to change based on my body’s response to this treatment.

I am finding that a common misconception around immunotherapy is that the side effects will somehow be less or “better” than those from chemotherapy. That is not true. Immunotherapy carries its own risks, and they are substantial. Therefore, during today’s visit we talked about the risks to my thyroid health, my pulmonary health, and my digestive health. I was also told to keep Zofran on hand as nausea is a real possibility, as is a rash and a fever. My thyroid function will be checked every six weeks.

During discussion, I noted that I already have scheduling conflicts in August and September with treatments Novant scheduled, and I was told that I can “live my life” and dates can be adjusted as necessary (i.e. bumped back a week to accommodate travel).

The big news from the call? Insurance has already approved this treatment! Both Dr. Rossi and Dr. Robinson had been cautiously optimistic about the ability to get approval, so to get it within 24 hours seems like a big win. It helps that this is my 3rd line of treatment, my cancer is platinum resistant, I have high grade histologies, and my disease is termed “non-curative.” The goal of this therapy is palliative.

I’m looking forward to starting treatment on July 6. My port lab is scheduled for 10 am, I should see Dr. Robinson at 11 am, and the infusion should start about 11:30 am.

Thanks for taking the time to read this far. I included quite a few details you’re free to research on your own. I appreciate all of you who take the time to read updates and give me space to process without asking too many questions.

Also, your prayers mean everything!