Hi, I have been a member of this site for almost two years, but have been in the smoldering state and only receiving Zometa so I didn't feel like I had anything to contribute (except maybe prayers). Last December I had to undergo radiation therapy for a fractured femoral neck. Well, now my doctor is going to start me on chemo ( I will be getting Velcade and Dexamethasone) and then I will be getting a bone marrow transplant. I know some of you have already had these things because I've seen your posts, but it was hard for me to relate since I didn't know when I would be getting them myself. Sorry, don't mean to sound so selfish, just trying to be honest and explain myself. Could those of you who have had these please tell me what I should expect from this? I know I will probably get a "moon face" and since I am a diabetic, my blood sugar will go sky high. I am told that I will most likely have to go on insulin. Is there any going back to pills once you start on the insulin? I am most concerned about the transplant. Any info will be greatly appreciated.
Hi Terri,
Sorry to hear that your MM is progressing. Like you, I have not been as bad off as others here. Often, I feel selfish and wonder why I am complaining, it could be worse. My DX came 4 years ago. It was caught early and treatment has been given early.
The Velcade and Dex (Cytoxan was also part of my treatment) were not bad. Lots of nights with little sleep was the worst of it. About 5 months after treatment, my Doc said "oh you do have cheek bones! It is good to see them again! So yes, your face will get quite round. But, it will go away. The SCT was anticlimactic. The procedure of getting your stem cells back is a walk in the park.(I used my own) Afterwards, is when things get tough, but it is worth it!
I wish you the best with your treatment. You can do it. Be strong and keep those prayers going.
Karla