Chemoembolization #2 Completed

Deb successfully completed the second of the two scheduled chemo embos at Northside yesterday around 3pm est. This treatment was for her left liver lobe only. It was moved up a day since they do not like to do the treatments on Fridays. There was initial concern proceeding with this treatment due to the following reasons. First, Deb’s pre-treatment lab tests indicated both her hematocrit (31.2 L) and hemoglobin (9.7 L) blood levels low. Second, Deb’s alertness level was below her baseline a was a little “foggy” including slight memory loss. Doctor Levy indicated these were some of symptoms common to what is called hepatic encephalopathy and typical for liver cancer patients. After further testing was completed including pneumonia test, Dr. Levy concluded that Deb’s liver was functioning well enough to proceed with the treatment around 1pm est.

There were no complications with the treatment and all went as planned. During the treatment, Dr. Levy indicated that he estimated approximately 90% of tumor in right liver lobe from first treatment to be dead due to lack of blood flow which is very positive as to how well the first treatment worked. He did say that he did confirm new growth in Deb’s left liver lobe since first treatment. There was only a small accident with Deb when first brought to her recovery room. She tried to get out of bed by herself soon after being moved to her recovery room. Unfortunately, she slipped and hit her cheek, lip, and small bruise on upper chest. Everyone on the floor was freaking as you can imagine a patient just getting out of surgery. Fortunately, Deb was fine and even had a pre-cautionary xray of chest to be sure.

From lessons learned after first treatment, we discussed performing a post recovery lab test to check Deb’s blood levels. As a result, the test taken first thing this morning confirmed Deb’s blood level continued to drop more (HGB 7.5L, HCT 25.5L) before the treatment and blood transfusion required (2 units). At 7pm est tonight, the second unit of blood has just been completed and means we get to go home soon. Just need to do one more lab test to be sure all levels are back to normal. 9pm blood results are much better (HGB 10.6, HCT 33.9) and our ticket outta here!

It has been a long two days at Northside but Deb really did great and everyone on staff were wonderful as usual. Deb is very tired and rightfully so. As always, I am so proud of well she made it thru this treatment and now she is ready to go home to do some much deserved nesting.

Thank you again to the wonderful Keheley school family for the Thanksgiving dinner and as always the neighborhood dinners during the holidays. Your love and generosity is so heartfelt to our family and especially Deb.


More love, prayers, and good vibes coming to Deb’s sister Susan in prep for her Pancreatectomy next Monday @ Mayo. More about Susan’s journey.

KTS and love to all!

God only knows what I would be without you
Beach Boys