City of Brotherly Love

Philly is starting to feel like a second home to us. We have our favorite eating spots, stores we like to explore, and we even get the same hotel suites every time. I can't reiterate the fact how great everyone here has been, the whole Penn Medicine Oncology Staff, the Homecare staff, and hotel staff. This city has stayed true to it's name.

Cycle 2a is complete. Like I previously stated Brandon and I weren't looking forward to this treatment. The two chemotherapy drugs he knew he'd be receiving weren't very welcoming the previous time. We had a great appointment with Dr. Staddon and our nurse practitioner, Laetitia. They informed us all Brandon's levels have been... In their words "perfect" trust me Brandon keeps reminding me of that fact. They also told us that the drug Brandon receives in the B and C parts, Methotrexate, is on shortage. Please tell me how a drug that so many people need is not made in appropriate amounts and the companies who do supply this drug are only releasing 1gram a day to Penn? Healthcare issues? I see a letter to the White House in my near future (put that one on my list) Anyways, if it is not available when Brandon needs it they will proceed with treatments but tack on all Brandon's Methotrexate portions on the end. A little confusing, but they assured us this has been a common practice because of various drug shortages in recent years. Again, we put all our trust in these amazing doctors and nurses and have full faith in their expertise. Brandon's time in the chair this week was only 5 hours compared to 7, so that was a plus, we enjoyed a day of our apple products and chatting up our neighbors. Dr. Staddon and Laetitia suggested that Brandon receive a shot of the strong anti-nausea medication directly into his port before he left the oncology unit. They seemed to think this would help fight any sickness caused by the meds. It definitely made a difference. He of course did not feel great but felt and looked much better in comparison to that first treatment. He was able to drink and eat a whole bowl of chicken noodle soup. Brandon is continuing to to eat a little and drink today, he is hooked up to fluids, and is in high spirits.

We are looking forward to each day improving and hoping he gets more strength and energy as the week continues.

Much Love from the City of Brotherly Love,
B&S