Alkaline Batteries?

 MARCH 24, 2025

Today, I want to start by sharing something truly special. During my treatment, I had the pleasure of meeting two amazing people—Matt and Karli. We connected just a few days ago through the Cholangiocarcinoma Facebook Group, and they came to see me in person today. That kind of support means the world to me.

I’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating—people in these types of support groups feel like family. I’ve never been one for groupthink... until now. This experience is changing me in ways I never expected.

Today also marked the end of my first 21-day treatment cycle (two weeks on, one week off). Week one includes chemo and immunotherapy, and week two is chemo only. On those treatment days, I also have lab work and a consult with Paula, my oncology nurse from Dr. Gilcrease’s team.

During our conversation, I asked Paula a few questions:

• How long will I be on treatment initially?
  She said they’ll likely continue for 2–3 months before doing another CT scan to reassess.

• Will side effects increase as treatment goes on?
  Her answer: “It’s different for everyone.” So far, I’ve been fortunate and haven’t experienced the more common side effects.

I also asked about something called “Tempus.” After talking with Matt and Karli, I’ve decided to complete the paperwork and send it in tonight. It’s a genomic testing service that helps personalize future treatment options based on my unique genetic makeup. Sounds promising.

I mentioned to Paula that I’d had a little facial redness and dry skin the last couple of days, but it cleared up with some over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone. I’ve dealt with this before and used to have a prescription steroid cream. She said if it returns or worsens, she can prescribe something—but for now, we’ll stick with what’s working. Whether it’s a side effect or not remains to be seen.

For now, it’s a waiting game. We’ll reevaluate everything in a few months. In the meantime, I have a PET scan scheduled for tomorrow. Depending on the results, there may be some changes to the treatment plan.

When we got home, my sister Missy and I had a good laugh over something silly—the word “FOB.” You know, those little security devices you use to get into buildings? Somehow, we came up with about a hundred different ways to say it. Just one of those goofy moments you don’t plan but really enjoy.

Before I close, I want to mention something really helpful: Daveen, a patient and family support specialist at Huntsman Cancer Institute, dropped by during my treatment. She told me about a weekly Zoom men’s group for patients who are walking a similar path. If you’re interested in joining, feel free to email me at victorythrufaithteam@gmail.com. I’ll be reaching out to the moderator tonight to get all the details and the link.

And finally, something truly heartwarming happened this morning. My oldest daughter and I haven’t been in touch much lately. Last night, I sent her an email, and this morning she responded—positively. It feels like the start of a new chapter for us, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

Until tomorrow…
—Steve