Thursday was a big day.
I received my second Keytruda infusion at Regions Hospital in Saint Paul. The day before, I had a high-dose vitamin C infusion at The Drip Bar in Edina. There’s a strong belief that receiving both within 24 hours can enhance their effectiveness, and I have to say, I think they’re right. After the infusion, I took two naps, and by Thursday night, my neck and head felt sore in a strangely encouraging way. It feels like something is happening at a deep cellular level. I’m hoping that means healing is underway.
This whole infusion process is time-consuming. Between driving, parking on the top level of the ramp (because it’s always full), and waiting on lab results before even starting the infusion, it becomes an all-day event. But this time, the labs brought great news. My numbers were the best I’ve seen. My blood pressure came in at 106/70, and my body weight has dropped to 185 pounds, finally falling out of the “overweight” range. Small wins like that are fuel to keep going.
Before any infusion, bloodwork is critical. They check to make sure my body is strong enough for treatment. White blood cells are monitored for immune system health, while red blood cells and hemoglobin are assessed for oxygen delivery. Platelets are examined for clotting, and liver and kidney function are evaluated to ensure the proper processing of medication. If something’s off, treatment gets delayed, so it’s always a relief when the numbers come back strong.
Now, some more good news.
A reporter from the Cottage Grove Journal has answered my email. I’m excited to share that this reporter has written a story about my cancer journey and the use of high-dose vitamin C, which is featured in the July 10th edition of their weekly paper. I’m deeply grateful to them for helping bring more awareness to this treatment path and the challenges many of us face outside the mainstream system.
Also, most of you know I am always working on something. I have been building something new. WaynesCancerJourney.com. It’s a blog about my cancer journey. The blog is still a work in progress, but the foundation is coming together. This site will serve as a central place to share updates, resources, research, and reflections from this road I’m walking. I hope it will also encourage others facing similar battles to explore their options, ask questions, and never give up hope.
On the financial side…
These treatments are not cheap. Each high-dose vitamin C infusion at my new 75-gram level costs $300, and I aim for 48 sessions. Keytruda, although partially covered by insurance, still comes with steep copays and expenses, not to mention all the associated costs, such as lab fees, parking, supplements, and supportive care. The financial strain is very real and growing.
To everyone who has supported me so far, thank you. Your help has made an enormous difference. Every donation, every kind message, every share has lightened the load and helped push this fight forward.
If you feel called to continue supporting me, whether it’s with a contribution, spreading the word, or even just sending encouragement, I’d be beyond grateful. This is not a solo fight. It’s a community one, and your support truly means the world.
We’re still standing, still believing, and still fighting.
With hope and gratitude,
Wayne
Wayne is battling cancer. The treatments are tough, and the bills are tougher. Donate to his GoFundMe today and help support his healing journey.