Yervoy + radiation

Madeleine’s Blog

December 14, 2012

So do not fear, for I am with you

Do not be dismayed, for I am your God

I will strengthen you and help you

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand

Isaiah 41:10

It has been 2 weeks since Madeleine's first infusion of Yervoy, and I'm happy to report that so far she has not experienced the negative side effects - which is such a blessing! She has been able to enjoy life and all the usual activities of this season. It is so great to feel good.

Radiation mask before it dries

This time, however, has not been without its challenges. Because of a slowly enlarging lymph node, Madeleine has to go in to have more radiation targeted to that area.

On Monday, we went to the radiologist and she was fitted for a new custom radiation mask. (To do that, they stretch the form tightly over you, and then dry it until it hardens into a rigid mask that will hold you in the right position for the precisely-targeted radiation.) To be honest, this process was no fun for Madeleine because of the pressure it put on her lymph nodes, but she made it through.

So, the radiation is planned to begin on December 18th, and then her next infusion of Yervoy will be on December 21st. We are hoping that the radiation will give her some relief from the growing lymph node, as well as to work synergistically with the Yervoy against her melanoma.

Enjoying this season! (from November)

As we mentioned before, Yervoy works by taking the "brakes" off of your immune system, helping your body to recognize the melanoma as being "foreign" so that it will attack it instead of letting it grow. Because of this, it usually takes time for it to work (weeks or even months) and to get your immune system revved up enough to effectively go after the melanoma. So, we are waiting and praying in the meantime.

Madeleine's next PET scan is scheduled for January 4th. Between now and then, she's looking forward to being with friends who will be home from college and elsewhere, and she's also really looking forward to enjoying this Christmas time.

As always, thanks so much for keeping her in your prayers and for your encouragement during this time.