I went today for CT scans to measure the progress of things in my battle with kidney cancer. The last set of scans (from January) had shown tumor growth for the first time since starting the targeted chemotherapy in 2008, so we changed to a newer drug, Votrient, and after three months of almost continuous use (600 mg/day), I have learned that the tumors are again shrinking. I meet with my oncologist tomorrow to discuss this all, and will post a further update with more details then, but for now, I am quite happy and off to play some poker to extend my lucky streak.
My husband has the same diagnosis as you so I sometimes check your site to see how you are doing. I am glad with you regarding the shrinkage of the tumors. My husband is on 800 mg/daily of Votrient and this is the third month.
He recently decided he would not take it every day and I am going to let him know of your results. He is now unable to walk except a little with a walker and we are going to get a wheelchair. This has been a very very difficult time for the both of us. The cancer has spread all over especially in the bone. Cancer is certainly no respecter of persons. He was a very active man for his age (75) and this is heartbreaking to me and everyone else. Thank you for taking the time to
post your experience with this. Best of everything to you.
Just wanted to let you know that my husband has been on Votrient for 5 months.
Yesterday his doctor took him off it. The primary kidney tumor is a bit larger and the chest tumors as well. Mild worsening from the previous CT scan according to the doctor and little change for the worse. He has only one other option which is AFINITOR (EVEROLIMUS) which is similar to RAPAMUNE (SIROLIMUS). Rapamune was prescribed to us off label at the Burznyski Clinic. My husband’s pain level is pretty high but he refuses to take anything stronger. We are preparing for what may be inevitable but still hold out hope in our God for a miracle. All outcomes will be good and we are at peace with this.
Hope you are doing well Richard and the very best to you.