PET results, now we have a plan

sullylv
sullylv Member Posts: 6
in Kidney Cancer #1

Seems like months since I have been here, but it has only been about 2 weeks! Amazing.  This is such an up and down process I really value everyone's comments, it has really helped get a grip on this "thing".  

My PET results were surprising.  The growth on the pancreas turned out to be false...nothing there, apparently something to do with tissue from the spleen...?? Anyway the plan for me now is to shrink the kidney tumor (9cm) and attack the small lesions on lungs using a drug I've seen mentioned here...Votrient.  I am in very good physical shape luckily, ( although a bit chubby) so the med onc says I am a good candidate for this type of treatment.  Maybe 3 months on this and then looking to do a partial nephrectomy.  I checked the drug on my insurance site and I don't know how I can afford it.  I think I'm looking at 1600 a month for this.  Anyone know if there are discounts or any financial help for this?

Comments

  • todd121
    todd121 Member Posts: 1,448 Member
    #2
    Votrient - Assistance

    Have a look at this thread:

    https://csn.cancer.org/node/292743

    There are lots of older threads that have info on things like this. Unfortunately, I find the search tool on here very, very bad. I understand why people don't use it much. I'm a computer scientist, and I find the search to not work well. Still, sometimes you can just use Google to search and it will find posts on here.

    Hope it helps.

    Todd

  • sullylv
    sullylv Member Posts: 6
    #3
    todd121 said:

    Votrient - Assistance

    Have a look at this thread:

    https://csn.cancer.org/node/292743

    There are lots of older threads that have info on things like this. Unfortunately, I find the search tool on here very, very bad. I understand why people don't use it much. I'm a computer scientist, and I find the search to not work well. Still, sometimes you can just use Google to search and it will find posts on here.

    Hope it helps.

    Todd

    Votrient

    Thanx Todd,

    I really appreciate it.  It looks like I will be getting the V from my med onc's ofice and they called today to say they may have some programs that will help.  I'll check out your suggestion.

  • foxhd
    foxhd Member Posts: 3,181 Member
    #4
    sullylv said:

    Votrient

    Thanx Todd,

    I really appreciate it.  It looks like I will be getting the V from my med onc's ofice and they called today to say they may have some programs that will help.  I'll check out your suggestion.

    assistance

    sully, I just ended 1 year on votrient. A company called Novartis has provided the drug at no charge for me after the first month. Call them at 800-277-2254.

  • sullylv
    sullylv Member Posts: 6
    #5
    foxhd said:

    assistance

    sully, I just ended 1 year on votrient. A company called Novartis has provided the drug at no charge for me after the first month. Call them at 800-277-2254.

    assistance

    Hey Fox,

    Thanx for the info, I just got a call from my Dr.'s office and the first place they went to had all of their fuds already allocated.  Then, coincidentally, she said she was trying Novartis, and was sending me some forms to sign.  You know, I would pay double what you are paying..:\).

    I've read some of your other comments, and have really appreciated you sharing.....very inspirational

    Thank you again for your help.

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