Great Results, So Much to be Thankful For!

She got her full read on her 6 month scan from the oncologist, and it was all great news. The tumors have shrunk again and it really was a great report. Her spleen is still enlarged, but has been for awhile, likely from the pressure from her liver over the past year(s). Nothing to be worried about as long as it doesn't get larger (plus, it can be removed if it causes problems) .

This report was a little bittersweet -- great results, but still such a long road ahead. Mom (& all of us) want it to be gone & how do we get to that point quicker, those answers aren't easy. We asked the doctor a lot of questions about how long? when? will it ever be gone? And the answers can only be answered with the average results from studies & how most patients respond to the treatment (we know he can't predict the future, it seems it would be much better if he could) And, as of right now none of those answers are good -- it will never be gone, Mom will always be doing some kind of treatment...so that part is hard. I'm sure a very emotional day for her. I'm even struggling as I write you this --

But know -- it's a joyful day today as the chemo is doing what it needs to -- reversing tumor growth! We are thank you & happy for such great results this far, it's a good indication that the cancer will continue to respond to the treatment.

From here, she will continue the same treatment (minus the oxaliplatin - the drug that causes in the numbness in her fingers/feet) every other week for another 3 months. The doctor said she can have a break at anytime - for the holidays, vacation, etc & they will watch it close so she has that option if she gets to the point where it's doing more harm than good (side effects & all that comes with the treatment).

Quick Update on Scan results

Hey everyone, Mom received her preliminary results last week on the CT scan to see how things were going from 6 months of completed treatment. Everything still looks good & the tumors have shrunk. The nurse & Physicians Assistant who provided the results noted 2 things of concern - her spleen is enlarged by 2cms and there was a very small spot showing on her lung. She will see the oncologist & start her next cycle of treatment on Tuesday (tomorrow) so we will get a full report then to see next steps. The PA didn't seem too concerned on the issues and said the doctor would be able to discuss further on her next appointment. More to come, but thought I would at least post this!