The Oncoming Train
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Hey, you know that light at the end of the tunnel? It really was the headlight of an oncoming train. I had a PCR test at 36 weeks. This is a test for the presence of the virus. This wasn’t necessary and is not usual protocols. But I wanted one to encourage me that all was well. I fully expected it to come back negative for the presence of the virus.
It didn’t. Virus still detectable. At this late stage a result like this is really the kiss of death to any further continuance of this course of treatment.
Over a very emotional weekend with lots of phone calls and emails seeking advice I finally went to see my nurse to talk it over with her. I have known her now for 15 months and we have been through some intense times together. I put a lot of faith and trust in her judgement.
I know she wants the best for me. In a specialist/patient relationship you cannot really ask for more. This alongside advice from treatment veterans helped me to come to a conclusion on the matter. Although Martin and others would have liked me to wait for the results of a viral load test outstanding I have nevertheless decided to discontinue treatment in favour of a new treatment in the future.
I have already been offered Schering Plough which is a different type of interferon and I am on a list of “guinea pigs” for future polymerase inhibitor treatments. For the moment though I have to rest, clear my system of this current treatment and give my body a break of a couple of years before it is ready for another battle.
I certainly am in need of some Rest and Recuperation (R&R) Body, mind and spirit have been on the front line for an extended period and need a break. Hoping to get away for a 4 day break very soon.
I still have a lot to say about treatment and getting through it. Also, now I will be reporting on post treatment recovery.
Have had mountains of well wishes and encouragement from fellow travelers and also from veterans who have journeyed before.
I am grateful to you all.
Hey, you know that light at the end of the tunnel? It really was the headlight of an oncoming train. I had a PCR test at 36 weeks. This is a test for the presence of the virus. This wasn’t necessary and is not usual protocols. But I wanted one to encourage me that all was well. I fully expected it to come back negative for the presence of the virus.
It didn’t. Virus still detectable. At this late stage a result like this is really the kiss of death to any further continuance of this course of treatment.
Over a very emotional weekend with lots of phone calls and emails seeking advice I finally went to see my nurse to talk it over with her. I have known her now for 15 months and we have been through some intense times together. I put a lot of faith and trust in her judgement.
I know she wants the best for me. In a specialist/patient relationship you cannot really ask for more. This alongside advice from treatment veterans helped me to come to a conclusion on the matter. Although Martin and others would have liked me to wait for the results of a viral load test outstanding I have nevertheless decided to discontinue treatment in favour of a new treatment in the future.
I have already been offered Schering Plough which is a different type of interferon and I am on a list of “guinea pigs” for future polymerase inhibitor treatments. For the moment though I have to rest, clear my system of this current treatment and give my body a break of a couple of years before it is ready for another battle.
I certainly am in need of some Rest and Recuperation (R&R) Body, mind and spirit have been on the front line for an extended period and need a break. Hoping to get away for a 4 day break very soon.
I still have a lot to say about treatment and getting through it. Also, now I will be reporting on post treatment recovery.
Have had mountains of well wishes and encouragement from fellow travelers and also from veterans who have journeyed before.
I am grateful to you all.
posted by Paul | 4:56 PM
2 Comments:
Well said Paul. You have it covered. Have a good break and come at it again when you are well . Sounds wise.
I hope you continue with your blog.
John
Thanks John. As a treatment veteran yourself you are one of those I will be looking to for post treatment advice.
God knows how little of that there is.
Thanks, mate,
Paul.
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