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nicolec

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      nicolec
      Participant

        I am a 3a, diagnosed in June.  I'm 41. I have had 4 treatments of Opdivo. The side effects I've experienced I've felt are minimal- tiredness and muscle/joint soreness. I originally felt itchiness after my first 2 treamtments but it's gotten better. And, I feel like it's all manageable. The only work I've missed is the days/times I've had appointments. I feel like I'm doing SOMETHING insteand of nothing which is why I'm glad I'm on this path. I lost my little sister 15 years ago to a completely different type of cancer-and she went though all sorts of chemo and surgery including amputation of her leg- and I have to keep telling myself that cancers are different. Treamenets are differerent.  But by doing immunotherapy I'm doing something- which, years ago, patients at stage 3a did not have the options too…I keep telling myself by doing treatment I'm improving my odds and empwering myself. Watching and waiting, while it's an option, for me, wasn't an option. That being said- trust your gut- trust your instinct.

        nicolec
        Participant

          I've only had one monthly dose, and go tomorrow for my second. This past week I've been exhausted. I also started school last week (middle school teacher), so I just figured it was that in combination with Opdivo- but maybe it's also because it's close to my next treatment.

          nicolec
          Participant

            I started on July 30th with a 2 week dose. It went well. On August 13th I went with the 4 week dose. So far, I haven't noticed any difference in side effects (which for me were: a little more tired, and itchiness). 

            nicolec
            Participant

              I've waited for 2 1/2 weeks before- almost 3. Both the times I had to wait so long were times where they got a second opinion.  Waiting is awful! 

              nicolec
              Participant

                We are almost on the same timetable. I just had my first treatment of Opdivo on Monday. I opted to do the every 2 week dose- but I think next time I'll try the  once/month. So far, the side effects I've felt are fatrigue and some mild itchiness on my arms/hands. I'm hoping my side effects remain minimal!

                nicolec
                Participant

                  So- they did surgery and then had you stay on Opdivo? I guess I'm feeling like Opdivo isn't working for me if it spread- but I don't fully understand how everything works. Guess I'll find out more tomorrow. Good luck on your future scans!

                  nicolec
                  Participant

                    I had one 2 week dose, and then switched to the monthly dose. I have had 2 monthly doses so far. I would say the side effects are similar- but I only did the one 2 week dose. Mostly my side effects are fatigue and muscle ache- but it's completely manigable.

                    nicolec
                    Participant

                      Thank you for your reply. I appreciate all your knowledge and advice you give on this board! I have learned a lot from reading things you, and others, have posted/shared. I've got this. Just have hicupps of emotions sometimes.

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