So, I just opened and read the official dictation of my PET scan and it's pretty much what I expected it to be. 4 out of the 5 "targeted areas" or lesions have increased in size and metabolic activity. I only used to have 4 areas but it looks like the cervical node that popped up a few scans ago is here to stay. I guess I'm kinda numb to it right now as I'm pretty calm (thank God for Attivan). It is concerning any time the cancer is getting "bigger" though. Dr. O'Connor wasn't there and I saw Dr. Zain. She mentioned that disease tends to "wax and wane" on this drug so I'm hoping that it'll start waning again on this cycle or I may have to start thinking of other options. We didn't discuss when we're going to scan again but will find out when I go back on December 9th.
Another troubling thing on the report that I need to investigate is; "Evaluation of the visualized skeletal structures demonstrates slightly increased cortical erosion/remodeling at the paraspinal regions mentioned above (where most of my disease is). It sounds like my bone or spine is starting to erode, ugh...
The plan for now is to try and enjoy the weekend (I miss Chili and can't wait to pick her up from my Moms!). On Monday, it's back to business as I'm going to forward the report to Dr. Ramchandran here in Detroit and see what his take is on it. I also need to contact a specialist for my back to make sure the eroding spine thing is being handled. It sucks because I'm not approved yet for Medicaid and have to cover the 20% of of my medical bills that aren't covered by Medicare. I did receive a letter back from DHS though and hoping I can get the Medicaid pushed through quickly.
I've written in the past how dealing with cancer is a 24 hour a day 7 day a week job. With this kind of crap, it feels like I have to work overtime as ridiculous as that sounds...
My spirits are surprisingly pretty good right now though so I'm just gonna keep rolling along and enjoying life the best that I can as always.
I've got big plans!!
9 comments:
Oh, Chris. I am so sorry that the lesions have grown. I will be praying that the disease starts waning and that you have peace through out al of this at least until your next appointment when you will have more information. Every year, I pray the Christmas Novena - there is only one chance to do it per year - and I will have your health & healthcare coverage in my intentions. God Bless you, my friend. Thank you for letting your friends & fam know how they can pray for you. Take care. ahs
Chris,
I'm sorry about the scan results. I wouldn't think they could justify leaving you on the drug if there was significant growth, but I have learned that I often don't think like the doctors:) I'm glad that you're feeling good overall. Mike is still having issues with his legs from SGN-35, so I think it's promising that you body recovered so well from that treatment.
I love your quote, "I've got big plans!" Have a great weekend! We're praying for you!
April
Chris,
I'm very sorry to hear SAHA isn't working as consistently as you need it. When I was on it, most of the time, I'd have one or two nodes getting smaller while another two or three nodes got bigger. Then they'd switch by the next scans. Used to drive me nuts. Eventually they all waxed and waned to 2, 3 and 4 cm nodes and we all had enough. As you know, this is Dr. O's drug and I always got the feeling that he wanted it to do better than it was actually doing. So I guess I'm writing this to tell you that the next set of rounds will be important for you to have an objective, critical evaluation. Dr. Ram will even be very helpful. Once again, sorry for the disappointment. You have been very inspiring to me, even going for runs and all. As always, feel free to contact me if you have any questions. It's a confusing drug. Love the Stones and U2 music.
Herls
Hi Chris,
I am sorry to learn of your recent PET results.
It isn't our position but our disposition which makes us happy. You are amazing and a continued inspiration.
Prayers for God's continued blessing and strength to you.
Sorry for those reports! The cancer stuff isn't giving you a break.
Good luck with the insurance crap. It is a stress you do not need. My insurance ends in 2 weeks and the office told me I would be responsible for 20% of my next treatment. I am hoping to sort it all out before my Dec. round.
I hope you have a nice, relaxing Thanksgiving. Toni.
Chris, I just wanted to let you know that there is a healing mass tonight (Monday) at 7pm at Shrine. There have been many healings at these masses. People will pray over you, if you would like them too. I read about it yesterday and wanted to let you know in case you were interested. Take care. aylin.
Chris,
You inspire me so much. Your constant courage makes me realize how strong you are. Your need to enjoy life to the fullest is amazing. This Thanksgiving, although I can't be there, I'll be thinking of you and thanking God that you are part of my life. Much love, Ken
Chris,
You continue to be an inspiration to me. Your courage and desire to live life to the fullest is amazing. I'm sorry I won't be able to join you for Thanksgiving but I will be thankful that you are my cousin. Sending prayers and good wishes. love, ken
what about radiation for the area of the back where you have the problems or are you maxed out from sct rads? if not, maybe radiation and then i hear they can give bone targeted therapies like zometa for erosion of the sort you are referring to (i know of someone who takes rituxan and zometa for erosion from nhl). possibility for you? those bone targeted therapies are often very well tolerated and they do actually fill in the gaps, so to speak. my friend who had bone mets from colon cancer that spread basically had no bone pain after going on it. one day at a time, one moment at a time, you amazing man, you. there's still a lot of hope. you had reduction and you can have it again, if not remission, which might come your way soon, on this or, more probably another treatment. we pray for it, if not it, then shrinkage (not the seinfeld kind; couldn't resist). and we pray for your peace of mind. the only good thing that comes from seeing people go on and off trials is seeing that sometimes, a lot of the time, people do find something that works after something stops working. you have proof of this. the uncertainty sucks but you are particularly poised to get through this: you have the brains, the guts, the support network (online and off), and don't forget the ativan.
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