Renal Cell Carcinoma (Kidney Cancer) Support Group

Hi Ingrid

Of course you're scared.. you would be less than human if not. But hang in there and have faith.. RCC treatment is a rapidly moving program, meaning that new stuff all the time.

I took Sutent at bedtime and had no problems with that schedule, but I can't imagine why 7P would not be just as effective.

Try to be alert to side effects so you can head the worst ones off as fast as possible (IF they can be headed off... sometimes you just have to grin and bear it.)

We are thinking of you and hoping for the best

Dave

Thanks so much for writing and the encouragement. We have prescription for nausea, and Immodium on hand. Anything else you might suggest?

Fatigue, which is often a function of thyroid disorder. Some fatigue you just live with, but if it really gets severe and frightning, ask your MD for a thyroid function test.

Mouth sores/ blisters. If his mouth begins to get sensitive and sore, try "Biotene" toothpaste and mouthwash. I got it at Walgreen's but I'm sure others have it.

Hand/Foot Syndrome. Here's a link that discusses dealing with that:

http://www.chemocare.com/managing/...

Now that I've scared you even further, let me hasten to add that RARELY do all these side effects occur. Usually one or two. But I mention them so you'll know what to expect.

Be of cheer, it usually isn't as bad as you imagine it may be.

Per an earlier message from you, I purchased the Biotene mouthwash and toothpaste. Thank you so much for telling me aboujt those. I also appreciate you telling me about the possible need for a Thyroid function test. I'll remember that.

You are a jewel and priceless.

How are you doing, Dave? What's your status with this nasty disease? I pray you are well.

Ingrid

best of luck with the meds will be praying for you i think we are all scared and the most scary thing is the unknown

Hi Peggy!

Thanks so much for writing. Yep...the unknown is frightening to all of us. Kind people, like you, are such a blessing.

How are you doing?

Ingrid

Hi Ingrid,
I remember sometime back I was in the same place you are. I found Daily Strength and asked the same questions. The friends I found here will last a lifetime. Unfortunately Sutent didn't work for me and I went on Torisel about 15 months ago. You have a lot of people here to help you along this journey. Good luck to Ray and especially you. As caregiver you are like a corpsman on the battlefield. The most important thing to remember is to take care of yourself.
Lots of Hugs for you and Ray
Ronnie1

Good Morning Ronnie!

How kind of you to write today. I appreciate it so much!

All is good here today. My husband, Ray, took his first dose of Sutent last night. We were a week receiving this drug, due to hassle with insurance company. Needless to say, that's been very stressful.

Ray is retired from the US Railroad Retirement Board. Our insurance is with the Letter Carrier's. Is that what you have?

Even though I worked (office manager) for 18 years, I get no retirement. The good news.....will get my first SS check mid July. It couldn't come at a better time!

How are you doing on the new med, Ronnie? If you've had both kidneys removed, I assume you're on dialysis....That would be very difficult, especially fighting this terrible disease.

Again, many sincere thanks for reaching out to me. I have already found so many dear, precious friends on this support group. The Lord definitely led me to it. I will add you to my prayer list, Ronnie. Please know that I am here for you anytime!

God bless you!
Ingrid

Hi Ingrid: Welcome! I was on Sutent for 4 months. It did not work for me. I am now on Torisel. I know alot of people have good luck with the sutent so hopefully it will work out.Watch out for high blood pressure while on sutent. Mine went sky high and had to play around alot with B.P. medicines. Good luck and hope it works! debbie

Hi Murphy Lou!

How are you doing on the Torisel and how long have you been taking it? I've heard some wonderful things about that drug. Our oncologist said that if one drug doesn't work for someone, another will....so I pray this is the cure for you!!
I'll be checking my husband's BP, and do appreciate "heads up" about it. Thank you so much for writing. I'm here for you too, so never hesitate to contact me.

MsGrace