Tomorrow will be a week since I had my first chemo treatment. The first few days I was pretty tired. Now I am feeling pretty good other than this ongoing pain in both of my sides. Today the right one has really bothered me. Anyway, very thankful that no side effects have kicked in.
I will be getting my port put in NEXT Monday, December 5th. They will access the port during surgery while I am still asleep. Once I wake up, I will go upstairs for my second chemo treatment. They are putting in a "power port" which means it can also be accessed during scans.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Results from biopsy
I had a molecular genetic test done October 25th. This test was done to find out what chemo would best treat the growing tumors. I heard from my oncologist today. There are 5 different chemo options. He named a few and I've actually done some of them before; 5FU and Irinotecan. I'm not sure which one I'll be doing as of right now. Should hear from the nurse tomorrow. He did say he wanted to start me on one chemo for now, then add another one later as a combination. I'll be getting a port sometime soon.
I've been off systemic treatment since first of May (Nexavar). I waited for what seemed like an eternity for insurance approval for Cyberknife. Since the approval never came, the doctor decided to treat me at no cost. I'm still amazed by that, even though I shouldn't be. God's timing is always best!
Now since the tumors are growing and as much as I don't want to do this, I'm ready to get started on this leg of the journey.
I've been off systemic treatment since first of May (Nexavar). I waited for what seemed like an eternity for insurance approval for Cyberknife. Since the approval never came, the doctor decided to treat me at no cost. I'm still amazed by that, even though I shouldn't be. God's timing is always best!
Now since the tumors are growing and as much as I don't want to do this, I'm ready to get started on this leg of the journey.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Doctor Visit Update
I saw Dr. Adler today. He wants to do a biopsy of one of the tumors (the easiest one to get to). He is thinking this will be the para-esophageal tumor. I will talk to him tomorrow or Friday. Will probably have the biopsy on Monday or Tuesday of next week. The purpose of this is to find which chemo is best suited for these particular cancer cells. I will update as I know more.
Cyberknife completed
I finished Cyberknife treatments today. All went well and I am thankful I was able to get the treatment. I see Dr. Adler in the morning. We'll talk about which chemo to start. I'll update as I know.
Thank you everyone!
Thank you everyone!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
A week ago today.....
A week ago today.... (seems much longer than one week)
I went to radiation oncologist on the 27th. She confirmed what I learned during the fiducial placement 2 weeks ago. There are 6-7 new spots in my right lung. She advised me to complete Cyberknife then a week later start systemic chemo.
Had PET Scan for Cyberknife. Then had regular 3 month follow up scans, CT of chest, pelvic and abdomen. Went to eat with Mama then back to work. I was there for almost an hour. Then, all of a sudden, I felt like I was going to pass out. My speech started slurring and was losing feeling in my left leg. Daddy pulled the car to the front, Ginger helped me to the car and we were on the way to Brookwood. At some point, I passed out.
Woke up with the hospital gown on and lights shining in my eyes. I couldn't talk, couldn't move my arms or legs. Mama told me later she had to hold my head up for almost an hour. Tried not to look at my mom or dad's face since I saw them crying. I had no idea what was going on. I have not taken chemo since the beginning of May.
I looked up and saw this sweet smiling face... Sallie Lawrence. All I could do at that point was cry. Talk about a rock, that's Sallie. I love you Sallie!
There was talk of possible stroke, possible seizure, they really didn't know what was going on. Had CT of head. Still couldn't move or feel legs or arms. Left for MRI and during that LOUD hour, I could tell the feeling in my arms were coming back. They rolled me back to the room and then I really almost lost it, emotionally, that is. There are few people I can look at and not have to say a word, b/c I don't have to. He already knows what I would say and I know what he would say. Thank you Dave!
I was admitted to the hospital around 10PM. Before Sallie, Dave and Mr. Gene left, I could feel my right leg. :-) Around 4AM, my left leg started doing what I was telling it to do. Took a few more hours, but I began moving it. The next day the Neurologist told me CT and MRI were normal. They did more tests, lots of blood work, the next 2 days. I came home Thursday night. They are calling it a "spell," for lack of not knowing what happened.
Since then, I've had a few moments where I felt funny. The only way I know to describe it is.... You know when you first get IV sedation, how you just get real woozy feeling and it's an all over body feeling. Well, that's happened to me several times since Friday. I've had some really bad headaches. I've been resting, resting, and resting some more.
Here's a schedule of sorts for this week and next:
I will have 4 treatments of Cyberknife.
10/6 Thursday @ 9:00 am
10/7 Friday @ 9:00 am
10/10 Monday @ 9:00 am
10/11 Tuesday @ 9:00 am
10/12 Wednesday - I will see medical oncologist, Dr. Adler. He will let me know what chemo we're going to do. Will probably start that regimen w/in a week.
10/13 Thursday - appointment with the neurologist, Dr. Kovacik, I saw in the hospital. I'll get results from all the (off the wall) lab work he did. He will give me the okay to drive that day, at least I hope he will.
And that's it, my official update!
I went to radiation oncologist on the 27th. She confirmed what I learned during the fiducial placement 2 weeks ago. There are 6-7 new spots in my right lung. She advised me to complete Cyberknife then a week later start systemic chemo.
Had PET Scan for Cyberknife. Then had regular 3 month follow up scans, CT of chest, pelvic and abdomen. Went to eat with Mama then back to work. I was there for almost an hour. Then, all of a sudden, I felt like I was going to pass out. My speech started slurring and was losing feeling in my left leg. Daddy pulled the car to the front, Ginger helped me to the car and we were on the way to Brookwood. At some point, I passed out.
Woke up with the hospital gown on and lights shining in my eyes. I couldn't talk, couldn't move my arms or legs. Mama told me later she had to hold my head up for almost an hour. Tried not to look at my mom or dad's face since I saw them crying. I had no idea what was going on. I have not taken chemo since the beginning of May.
I looked up and saw this sweet smiling face... Sallie Lawrence. All I could do at that point was cry. Talk about a rock, that's Sallie. I love you Sallie!
There was talk of possible stroke, possible seizure, they really didn't know what was going on. Had CT of head. Still couldn't move or feel legs or arms. Left for MRI and during that LOUD hour, I could tell the feeling in my arms were coming back. They rolled me back to the room and then I really almost lost it, emotionally, that is. There are few people I can look at and not have to say a word, b/c I don't have to. He already knows what I would say and I know what he would say. Thank you Dave!
I was admitted to the hospital around 10PM. Before Sallie, Dave and Mr. Gene left, I could feel my right leg. :-) Around 4AM, my left leg started doing what I was telling it to do. Took a few more hours, but I began moving it. The next day the Neurologist told me CT and MRI were normal. They did more tests, lots of blood work, the next 2 days. I came home Thursday night. They are calling it a "spell," for lack of not knowing what happened.
Since then, I've had a few moments where I felt funny. The only way I know to describe it is.... You know when you first get IV sedation, how you just get real woozy feeling and it's an all over body feeling. Well, that's happened to me several times since Friday. I've had some really bad headaches. I've been resting, resting, and resting some more.
Here's a schedule of sorts for this week and next:
I will have 4 treatments of Cyberknife.
10/6 Thursday @ 9:00 am
10/7 Friday @ 9:00 am
10/10 Monday @ 9:00 am
10/11 Tuesday @ 9:00 am
10/12 Wednesday - I will see medical oncologist, Dr. Adler. He will let me know what chemo we're going to do. Will probably start that regimen w/in a week.
10/13 Thursday - appointment with the neurologist, Dr. Kovacik, I saw in the hospital. I'll get results from all the (off the wall) lab work he did. He will give me the okay to drive that day, at least I hope he will.
And that's it, my official update!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Fiducial placed for Cyberknife
Wednesday I went to Brookwood to have the Fiducial placed. It had been exactly 12 weeks to the day since I found out I needed Cyberknife. This has been a crazy 12 weeks.
Since the beginning of the year, from the scan readings, they have not known exactly where the tumors were. They said it was very tricky because of their placement. If you look at the anatomy of the lung, diaphragm and the liver, you will see that those three organs are very close together. Since January, I knew there were three tumors, just didn't know exactly where they were. It was thought they were all in the right lung, lower lobe.
Yesterday, the procedure was to be a CT guided fiducial placement. It was found that the largest tumor was in fact in my liver. So, they placed the marker for that tumor.
While scanning, several more tumors were found in the right lung. I don't really know the details as of now. I will talk to Dr. Tincher and find out.
I'll have a PET Scan on Tuesday row 27th @ 10:00. Then at 12:30 will have a CT scan. Will find out soon when I'll actually start the treatments.
I'll be in touch! ~ Kelly
Since the beginning of the year, from the scan readings, they have not known exactly where the tumors were. They said it was very tricky because of their placement. If you look at the anatomy of the lung, diaphragm and the liver, you will see that those three organs are very close together. Since January, I knew there were three tumors, just didn't know exactly where they were. It was thought they were all in the right lung, lower lobe.
Yesterday, the procedure was to be a CT guided fiducial placement. It was found that the largest tumor was in fact in my liver. So, they placed the marker for that tumor.
While scanning, several more tumors were found in the right lung. I don't really know the details as of now. I will talk to Dr. Tincher and find out.
I'll have a PET Scan on Tuesday row 27th @ 10:00. Then at 12:30 will have a CT scan. Will find out soon when I'll actually start the treatments.
I'll be in touch! ~ Kelly
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Plans are in the works...
Monday, September 19th, I'll have blood work in preparation for Cyberknife.
Wednesday, September 21st, I will have the marker placed. This will be out-patient.
Tuesday, September 27th, I'll have CT scans, then wait for the treatment date.
Thank you all for all the love and support!!!!
Wednesday, September 21st, I will have the marker placed. This will be out-patient.
Tuesday, September 27th, I'll have CT scans, then wait for the treatment date.
Thank you all for all the love and support!!!!
Excellent News!
On June 29th, I saw Dr. Tincher (radiation oncologist). I had scans that same day. 3 tumors are in the right lung. Dr. Tincher recommended me to do Cyberknife again. I did this in November 2009 and the results were amazing. Long story made short.... I have been denied three times by BlueCross. Letters from my doctor, from me, from the head of Cyberknife. Still, denied by BlueCross. They said the policy changed in December 2010. Anyway...
Tonight, 10 weeks later, I got a call from Cyberknife. I will have more details soon, but the good news is....I am getting the treatment.
Tonight, 10 weeks later, I got a call from Cyberknife. I will have more details soon, but the good news is....I am getting the treatment.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Day 11
Hello everyone, Wanted to send a quick update. I've only had one bad day with the Nexavar and it was this past Sunday. Been a good week otherwise. I am really feeling good today. Looking forward to a good weekend! I'll be in touch.... Kelly
Monday, November 29, 2010
Another journey begins
I had scans on November 10th. A week later I saw my doctor. Found out the mediastinal node has grown just a bit. Also found out there is a tumor attached to the liver that is about 3 cm's in size. I will start chemo tomorrow. The name of it is Nexavar. It's an oral chemo; which will be different for me. I'm glad to not have to go to the hospital each day though. I will see the doctor again on January 5th.
I wanted to let you all know so you will have something specific to pray for. I thank you in advance.
With lots of love,
Kelly
I wanted to let you all know so you will have something specific to pray for. I thank you in advance.
With lots of love,
Kelly
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Answered Prayers
So today I had scans.....
There are several dates that will always be forever in my mind. For example, the date I accepted Jesus Christ in my heart (it is written in my bible from that September day in 1979). The date I started band camp at Troy State, the date I was told I had cancer, and the date my brother and his family drove off in a U-Haul to move to Texas....these are dates that I will forever remember.
I now have a new date to add to that list!
April 28, 2010....this is the day that my sweet Dr. told me she did not see the lung nodules we have been treating. She did not see them on the scans. She was very excited, but not more than I was. April 28,2010.... the day I was told no more lung nodules, which means no more cancer in my body.
I praise you Sweet Jesus! I thank you for keeping me grounded through this journey. I am humbled you chose to use me and I pray I do exactly what you want me to do. I know you are not finished with me, You've only begun. I am yours Lord, I am here to do your work. Direct my paths so I am where I need to be.
There are several dates that will always be forever in my mind. For example, the date I accepted Jesus Christ in my heart (it is written in my bible from that September day in 1979). The date I started band camp at Troy State, the date I was told I had cancer, and the date my brother and his family drove off in a U-Haul to move to Texas....these are dates that I will forever remember.
I now have a new date to add to that list!
April 28, 2010....this is the day that my sweet Dr. told me she did not see the lung nodules we have been treating. She did not see them on the scans. She was very excited, but not more than I was. April 28,2010.... the day I was told no more lung nodules, which means no more cancer in my body.
I praise you Sweet Jesus! I thank you for keeping me grounded through this journey. I am humbled you chose to use me and I pray I do exactly what you want me to do. I know you are not finished with me, You've only begun. I am yours Lord, I am here to do your work. Direct my paths so I am where I need to be.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
I'm so excited....
First off, sorry for not updating lately.
After having Cyber Knife in October, I've been doing pretty good. I had some bad coughing and wheezing after the Cyber Knife. After being scanned in early December, it was obvious as to why I was wheezing and coughing so much. I had lots of scar tissue and major inflammation in the lungs from the Cyber Knife. I was put on Prednisone (steroids) for about 2 weeks and the coughing/weezing has gotten much better.
The last few weeks I've noticed a very heavy feeling in my chest. Had some shortness of breath and had some pain when taking a deep breath, etc.
I had scans this morning. After scans, I had my appointment with Dr. Tincher (radiation oncologist). She walked in and asked if I wanted to see the pictures from my scans. Of course I wanted to see them. She told me I had radiation pneumonitis (radiation pneumonia). That explains the heavy feeling in my chest. She's putting me back on steroids for 40 days. It's going to be a pretty high dose to start with and I will lower it every 10 days. She said the pneumonia in the lungs is proof the CyberKnife is working. :-)
So then she showed me the 3 lung nodules. There is no new growth and one nodule appeared to be a bit smaller. :-)
I asked what some of the organs were... She told me there was my heart, there was my spine, there was my liver and there was my esophagus. I know you are wondering....why is Kelly putting all this on here....you'll understand why very soon.
I asked Dr. Tincher to show me the mediastinal mass......
You know the one I'm talking about... The one that was found in February 2006. Had chemo then radiation in March 2007 because it had grown to a very dangerous size. Dr. Nguyen sent me immediately to the Radiation Oncologist to get the markers ready for radiation that I started the next day. Dr. Nguyen told me how dangerous this tumor was and the possibility of it protruding into my inferior vena cava could be detrimental. Very scary time of course. Radiation was successful. Even a year after treatment, I had 20% shrinkage which was wonderful. So I see new doctors in Birmingham in August 2009. Sent to a pulmonologist to explore the possibility of removing the mediastinal mass. Decided the surgery was too dangerous. The tumor remained stable, no new growth.
So, Dr. Tincher is showing me what these things are that I'm looking at on my scans. I then asked her where the tumor was. She paused... I said, "you know, the tumor between my esophagus and the inferior vena cava." She said, "there is nothing present there, everything is normal." I said, "no, the tumor I had radiation on." She said, "there is nothing present," as she enlarged the view on the screen. I said, "you mean, it's gone?" She said, "yes, it's not there." What a moment that was!
I then went to see Dr. Larson (medical oncologist). She of course got the news before I did. She was estatic. After she listened to my lungs, she said, "this mama is happy!"
Needless to say, today has been a wonderful day.
It seems I always reflect back on this journey right before scans, even more so than normal. I couldn't get to sleep last night, I guess I was a little anxious. This morning I was thinking of a few particular moments and I know more than ever God has put me exactly right where HE wants me. GOD placed me at UAB West where I saw Dr. Edge on July 8, 2004. GOD knew Dr. Bynon at UAB Hospital would be the one to do my surgery in August, 2004. GOD knew Rachel Rhodes was going to be searching for a little updated information on Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma on the internet several days after Sallie Lawrence posted a prayer request from her friend Kelly. GOD put me in Tallahassee, FL so I could be Dr. Nguyen's patient. HE knew I needed Dr. Nguyen and HE was right. GOD knew I would need the Helical Tomography that was in Tallahassee. At the time in 2007, there were only 8 of those machines in the world. It was no coincidence I was where I was. And what do you know.... I move back to Birmingham, Alabama in March 2009 and after scans in July, Dr. Amanze tells me I need Cyber Knife. Guess what opened in May 2009? CyberKnife of Birmingham at Brookwood Hospital, still no coincidence. GOD has been and IS in TOTAL CONTROL of this journey.
My cousin Mary said today that I was blessed. She is so right.
Thank you everyone for praying for me and for telling others to pray for me. The best gift you can give someone is to lift their name to our Awesome GOD!
After having Cyber Knife in October, I've been doing pretty good. I had some bad coughing and wheezing after the Cyber Knife. After being scanned in early December, it was obvious as to why I was wheezing and coughing so much. I had lots of scar tissue and major inflammation in the lungs from the Cyber Knife. I was put on Prednisone (steroids) for about 2 weeks and the coughing/weezing has gotten much better.
The last few weeks I've noticed a very heavy feeling in my chest. Had some shortness of breath and had some pain when taking a deep breath, etc.
I had scans this morning. After scans, I had my appointment with Dr. Tincher (radiation oncologist). She walked in and asked if I wanted to see the pictures from my scans. Of course I wanted to see them. She told me I had radiation pneumonitis (radiation pneumonia). That explains the heavy feeling in my chest. She's putting me back on steroids for 40 days. It's going to be a pretty high dose to start with and I will lower it every 10 days. She said the pneumonia in the lungs is proof the CyberKnife is working. :-)
So then she showed me the 3 lung nodules. There is no new growth and one nodule appeared to be a bit smaller. :-)
I asked what some of the organs were... She told me there was my heart, there was my spine, there was my liver and there was my esophagus. I know you are wondering....why is Kelly putting all this on here....you'll understand why very soon.
I asked Dr. Tincher to show me the mediastinal mass......
You know the one I'm talking about... The one that was found in February 2006. Had chemo then radiation in March 2007 because it had grown to a very dangerous size. Dr. Nguyen sent me immediately to the Radiation Oncologist to get the markers ready for radiation that I started the next day. Dr. Nguyen told me how dangerous this tumor was and the possibility of it protruding into my inferior vena cava could be detrimental. Very scary time of course. Radiation was successful. Even a year after treatment, I had 20% shrinkage which was wonderful. So I see new doctors in Birmingham in August 2009. Sent to a pulmonologist to explore the possibility of removing the mediastinal mass. Decided the surgery was too dangerous. The tumor remained stable, no new growth.
So, Dr. Tincher is showing me what these things are that I'm looking at on my scans. I then asked her where the tumor was. She paused... I said, "you know, the tumor between my esophagus and the inferior vena cava." She said, "there is nothing present there, everything is normal." I said, "no, the tumor I had radiation on." She said, "there is nothing present," as she enlarged the view on the screen. I said, "you mean, it's gone?" She said, "yes, it's not there." What a moment that was!
I then went to see Dr. Larson (medical oncologist). She of course got the news before I did. She was estatic. After she listened to my lungs, she said, "this mama is happy!"
Needless to say, today has been a wonderful day.
It seems I always reflect back on this journey right before scans, even more so than normal. I couldn't get to sleep last night, I guess I was a little anxious. This morning I was thinking of a few particular moments and I know more than ever God has put me exactly right where HE wants me. GOD placed me at UAB West where I saw Dr. Edge on July 8, 2004. GOD knew Dr. Bynon at UAB Hospital would be the one to do my surgery in August, 2004. GOD knew Rachel Rhodes was going to be searching for a little updated information on Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma on the internet several days after Sallie Lawrence posted a prayer request from her friend Kelly. GOD put me in Tallahassee, FL so I could be Dr. Nguyen's patient. HE knew I needed Dr. Nguyen and HE was right. GOD knew I would need the Helical Tomography that was in Tallahassee. At the time in 2007, there were only 8 of those machines in the world. It was no coincidence I was where I was. And what do you know.... I move back to Birmingham, Alabama in March 2009 and after scans in July, Dr. Amanze tells me I need Cyber Knife. Guess what opened in May 2009? CyberKnife of Birmingham at Brookwood Hospital, still no coincidence. GOD has been and IS in TOTAL CONTROL of this journey.
My cousin Mary said today that I was blessed. She is so right.
Thank you everyone for praying for me and for telling others to pray for me. The best gift you can give someone is to lift their name to our Awesome GOD!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Finished with treatments
I finished the Cyberknife treatments yesterday. I will see Dr. Tincher in 3 weeks and most likely have scans in one month. Here's to livin' the good life!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
First treatment in the books....
Yesterday I had my first Cyberknife treatment. I put my ipod on a favorite playlist, settled in on the table, got as comfy as possible and slept off and on. 2 hours and 5 minutes later, the guy woke me up and told me it was time to get up.
I walked outside and just wanted to shout out loud, "one down, three to go."
I will go for another treatment Monday at 8:00 a.m. Then another at the same time, Tuesday morning. My 4th and final treatment will be Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.
There have been no side effects, :-)
The only thing I guess is I'm having a bit of trouble getting to sleep. Also, I'm waking up early, and that is not normal. This is because of the Decadron (steroid) I'm taking.
I will update soon!
Kelly
I walked outside and just wanted to shout out loud, "one down, three to go."
I will go for another treatment Monday at 8:00 a.m. Then another at the same time, Tuesday morning. My 4th and final treatment will be Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.
There have been no side effects, :-)
The only thing I guess is I'm having a bit of trouble getting to sleep. Also, I'm waking up early, and that is not normal. This is because of the Decadron (steroid) I'm taking.
I will update soon!
Kelly
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Starting Cyberknife tomorrow
I will have 4 treatments of Cyberknife. I will go tomorrow (Thursday), Friday, Monday and Tuesday. The treatment will take 1 1/2 - 2 hours.
Here's to getting rid of the lung nodules! :-)
Here's to getting rid of the lung nodules! :-)
Monday, September 21, 2009
Planning CT Scan
I had the planning CT Scan today. Dr. Tincher came in and told me how excited they are that we are getting started soon. After the radiation oncologist, pulmonolagist, and the physicist go over the scan from today, the CyberKnife Center will call me in about a week to let me know what the plan is. So I am waiting to hear from them. I will be in touch as soon as I do.
Kelly
Kelly
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The Markers in Lung Nodules are in place
Dr. Seigel, at Brookwood, placed the markers in the lung nodules this past Friday. He explained the entire procedure to me and Mama. He explained it so well that Mama didn't have any questions, that made me laugh. She always has questions!!
There are 3 nodules and he was able to treat two of them as one, meaning he only placed one marker for the 2 nodules at the base of the lung. The other nodule has its own marker.
I was extremely lucky there was no pneumothorax (no puntcure in the lung). That was one of the risks. Another risk is the markers could move from where they were placed.
I will see when I go get scanned on Monday, 9/21. If everything is in place and everything looks good, they will plan the treatment. So I should know that week when the CyberKnife will start.
Thank you all for your prayers.
There are 3 nodules and he was able to treat two of them as one, meaning he only placed one marker for the 2 nodules at the base of the lung. The other nodule has its own marker.
I was extremely lucky there was no pneumothorax (no puntcure in the lung). That was one of the risks. Another risk is the markers could move from where they were placed.
I will see when I go get scanned on Monday, 9/21. If everything is in place and everything looks good, they will plan the treatment. So I should know that week when the CyberKnife will start.
Thank you all for your prayers.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
CyberKnife Approved
Hello all....
I wanted to update what is going on with me.
A week ago today, I saw Dr. Larson, my medical oncologist. After talking with her and listening to her ideas, we decided to try something new. I have known since the beginning of this journey that hormones feed this type of cancer. Dr. Larson wants to try shutting down my ovaries and see what effect this will have. She gave me the Eligard injection and I will see her again in 6 weeks. (Eligard is used for prostate cancer)
Insurance approved the CyberKnife procedure. I will have the "fiducials" (markers) put in on this Friday. I have to be at Brookwood at 7 AM. They will inject the markers, which are tiny gold seeds. It will take 3 needles to get this done. I'm not all that crazy about 3 needles going in my lung, but this is best. This CyberKnife is amazing!
I will see Dr. Tincher (radiation oncologist) on Monday, the 21st. They will do the planning scans that day. I will start the actual treatments soon thereafter.
I will keep everyone posted!
Thanks!
I wanted to update what is going on with me.
A week ago today, I saw Dr. Larson, my medical oncologist. After talking with her and listening to her ideas, we decided to try something new. I have known since the beginning of this journey that hormones feed this type of cancer. Dr. Larson wants to try shutting down my ovaries and see what effect this will have. She gave me the Eligard injection and I will see her again in 6 weeks. (Eligard is used for prostate cancer)
Insurance approved the CyberKnife procedure. I will have the "fiducials" (markers) put in on this Friday. I have to be at Brookwood at 7 AM. They will inject the markers, which are tiny gold seeds. It will take 3 needles to get this done. I'm not all that crazy about 3 needles going in my lung, but this is best. This CyberKnife is amazing!
I will see Dr. Tincher (radiation oncologist) on Monday, the 21st. They will do the planning scans that day. I will start the actual treatments soon thereafter.
I will keep everyone posted!
Thanks!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Met with another doctor today
Today I met with a Thoracic Surgeon, Dr. Ronson, at Brookwood. I had to consult with him, since he could possibly be involved with the procedure of putting in the markers for CyberKnife. While talking with him, he asked if I had ever considered having the nodules resected. I told him I didn't think it was an option because other doctors told me that. He told me he could possibly resect one of the lobes of my left lung. The top lobe is where two of the nodules are. He also said he could possibly take the other nodule out completely. He even said that it may be an option to take out the mediastinal tumor. I was excited and overwhelmed at the same time.
I will hear something within 2 days I think. I will update as I know.
So...maybe I won't have to do the CyberKnife. I'll just have to wait to find out.
Thanks to you all!
I will hear something within 2 days I think. I will update as I know.
So...maybe I won't have to do the CyberKnife. I'll just have to wait to find out.
Thanks to you all!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Moving right along~
Today I had appointment with my new Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Tincher, at Brookwood. I was evaluated for CyberKnife (which is a form of radiation). She sent the paperwork for insurance approval today. Should hear back from that by the end of next week. Once we have insurance approval, then I will have markers put in place. They will put markers in each of the 3 lung nodules. I asked how they get the markers in and she told me by needle, yuck. The markers are little gold seeds. Anyway, after the markers are in place, I'll have to wait about a week for them to settle. Then, I'll take steroids for about 3 days. Then....I should be ready for treatment. The actual treatment will last about an hour and a half. I think she said I would have 3 treatments. Not sure how much time in between treatments. So...it will probably be about a month or so before I start the actual CyberKnife treatment.
After the office visit with Dr. Tincher, I had CT Scans and labs.
I must say, this was the best time I had getting scans. I made friends and had people laughing. As far as being at the doctor and having scans and getting blood drawn, I had a really great day! Brookwood really knows how to treat their patients. Once again, God has put me in the right place.
I will post as I know more!
KELLY
After the office visit with Dr. Tincher, I had CT Scans and labs.
I must say, this was the best time I had getting scans. I made friends and had people laughing. As far as being at the doctor and having scans and getting blood drawn, I had a really great day! Brookwood really knows how to treat their patients. Once again, God has put me in the right place.
I will post as I know more!
KELLY
Thursday, August 20, 2009
A new day - a breath of fresh air~
I had an appointment with medical oncologist today at Brookwood Medical Center here in Birmingham. She was so very nice and knowledge about the chemo drug I should be starting soon. I have appointment with radiation oncologist soon to be evaluated for cyberknife. She talked about starting me on Nexavar after cyberknife. I asked her why Nexavar instead of Sutent....after discussing a bit, she is going to tell me which will be better for me at my next appointment. I should hear from her soon.
On a side note, I ask all of you to remember my friend Dave in your prayers. He has just been diagnosed with Membranous Glomerulonephritis. He will be meeting with oncology next week to discuss starting chemo. He does not have cancer. His kidneys are shutting down and the chemo IS going to get rid of the bad cells and the kidneys WILL begin to work properly. That is my prayer and I do hope you will all join me.
I spoke to him earlier this evening and we were comparing doctor visits from today. He said his doctor has never treated anyone with Membranous Glomerulonephritis. We couldn't help but laugh when I told him my new oncologist has never treated anyone with my type of cancer. I keep reminding Dave it's good to laugh!
Thank you all for allowing me to share and I greatly appreciate each and everyone of you!
You are my angels that I just don't get to see everyday.
Much love,
Kelly
On a side note, I ask all of you to remember my friend Dave in your prayers. He has just been diagnosed with Membranous Glomerulonephritis. He will be meeting with oncology next week to discuss starting chemo. He does not have cancer. His kidneys are shutting down and the chemo IS going to get rid of the bad cells and the kidneys WILL begin to work properly. That is my prayer and I do hope you will all join me.
I spoke to him earlier this evening and we were comparing doctor visits from today. He said his doctor has never treated anyone with Membranous Glomerulonephritis. We couldn't help but laugh when I told him my new oncologist has never treated anyone with my type of cancer. I keep reminding Dave it's good to laugh!
Thank you all for allowing me to share and I greatly appreciate each and everyone of you!
You are my angels that I just don't get to see everyday.
Much love,
Kelly
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Next appointment
I have an appointment on Monday, August 17th. I think it's at 11:00. Will update afterwards.
Hurdles
Well, I saw the medical oncologist this morning. I got there at 7:40 a.m. Went back to the room at 8:25 a.m. and the doctor walked in at 11:20. You would think that would disappoint me or surprise me, but it did not. I guess you get used to these things like waiting.
Anyway, at this stage in the game, after dealing with this for 5 years, I do expect a few things:
#1. I expect once a referral has been made, I expect the doctor to have at least looked at my chart and to know what type of cancer I have.
#2. I do not have HCC, I have FHC, please notice the difference Dr.
#3. Please do not belittle my knowledge with the cancer that I have dealt with for the past 5 years.
Needless to say, I was not very pleased with my visit this morning. He offered nothing to me. Many of you know how I feel about doctors. When you see them for the first time, it's like an interview. This doctor will not get a second interview.
So I am on to looking for another medical oncologist. A referral is in the works as I type this.
Please pray that I find the right doctor for me.
On another note....lunch was fabulous. P.F. Changs is one of my favorites. As we sat there for lunch, we were talking and Mama commented on a particular doctor telling me to enjoy life now b/c I wouldn't be around much longer to enjoy it (of course, he didn't get the job either). (BTW, he told me that in March of 2006... Little did he know!!)
I commented to Mama and Daddy that if everyone listened to what the first doctor said, it would be a sad world. And then it HIT me.....5 years ago today, I had my first surgery! 5 YEARS AGO TODAY. August 12, 2004, I had a partial liver resection and my doctor told me there was nothing else I could do after the surgery. That is when I learned in the medical field, you have to take a lot of the responsibility for your care in your own hands. Thanks to my family, I have not had to do that alone. So...once I realized it has been exactly 5 years since I had surgery....we made a date for August 12, 2014, to have lunch at the same P.F. Changs, to celebrate another 5 years. Daddy called Greg and requested his presence for that date. I am already looking forward it.
Thanks for letting me share!
With love....Kelly
Anyway, at this stage in the game, after dealing with this for 5 years, I do expect a few things:
#1. I expect once a referral has been made, I expect the doctor to have at least looked at my chart and to know what type of cancer I have.
#2. I do not have HCC, I have FHC, please notice the difference Dr.
#3. Please do not belittle my knowledge with the cancer that I have dealt with for the past 5 years.
Needless to say, I was not very pleased with my visit this morning. He offered nothing to me. Many of you know how I feel about doctors. When you see them for the first time, it's like an interview. This doctor will not get a second interview.
So I am on to looking for another medical oncologist. A referral is in the works as I type this.
Please pray that I find the right doctor for me.
On another note....lunch was fabulous. P.F. Changs is one of my favorites. As we sat there for lunch, we were talking and Mama commented on a particular doctor telling me to enjoy life now b/c I wouldn't be around much longer to enjoy it (of course, he didn't get the job either). (BTW, he told me that in March of 2006... Little did he know!!)
I commented to Mama and Daddy that if everyone listened to what the first doctor said, it would be a sad world. And then it HIT me.....5 years ago today, I had my first surgery! 5 YEARS AGO TODAY. August 12, 2004, I had a partial liver resection and my doctor told me there was nothing else I could do after the surgery. That is when I learned in the medical field, you have to take a lot of the responsibility for your care in your own hands. Thanks to my family, I have not had to do that alone. So...once I realized it has been exactly 5 years since I had surgery....we made a date for August 12, 2014, to have lunch at the same P.F. Changs, to celebrate another 5 years. Daddy called Greg and requested his presence for that date. I am already looking forward it.
Thanks for letting me share!
With love....Kelly
Monday, August 10, 2009
New Doctor
I will see Dr. Posey at the Kirklin Clinic in Birmingham on this Wednesday at 8:00 a.m. I will update shortly after. Dr. Posey is the Medical Oncologist that will be working with the radiation guy for my treatment plan.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Appointment next Thursday
I got a call from Dr. Burnette (radiation oncology) today. I am scheduled to see Dr. James A. Posey (medical oncology) Thursday, August 13th.
Just wanted to let everyone know.
Kelly
Just wanted to let everyone know.
Kelly
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Haven't heard anything yet...
Dr. Burnette did call me Friday afternoon to tell me he has not found a medical oncologist yet for me. He has someone in mind, but they were on vacation last week. He told me he didn't want just anyone handling my special case.
Just wanted to keep you all up to date.
Kelly
Just wanted to keep you all up to date.
Kelly
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Appointment update
I saw Dr. Burnette last Friday and he was very encouraging. He may be the first doctor I've talked to who had a positive outlook at the start of our meeting. He told me I am among a largely growing population - that being people with uncurable cancers that are able to be treated.
He thought it best to meet with a medical oncologist (he is a radiation oncologist) before I start any treatments. The two of them will map out my treatment plan together. I should hear from him by the end of the week.
As always, I will be in touch.
He thought it best to meet with a medical oncologist (he is a radiation oncologist) before I start any treatments. The two of them will map out my treatment plan together. I should hear from him by the end of the week.
As always, I will be in touch.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Next Dr. Appt
I will have a consultation with Dr. Burnette here in Birmingham at The Wallace Tumor Institute on Friday, July 24. He is with Radiation Oncology. I will know more once I meet with him.
I will be in touch!
Kelly
I will be in touch!
Kelly
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
5 years ago today...
5 years ago today....
5 years ago today I had some major pain in my abdomen area which led to x-rays, scans and surgery. I am happy to sit here tonight and send this update 5 years later. If you know anything about cancer, then you know hitting the 5 year mark is a very big accomplishment. The average life span of someone with my kind of cancer after diagnosis is 32 months. Well, I have certainly beat that. :-) I actually have another goal to reach. I will let you all know when I have reached it, because I will...I have no doubt.
I had scans two weeks ago today. Saw Dr. Amanze a week ago today.
The mediastinal tumor has not changed in size, which is wonderful. This is the tumor very close to my esophogus.
Two of the lung nodules have doubled in size, the largest one now is 2.5 cm's, it's at the base of the left lung.
Dr. Amanze is referring me to an oncologist here in Birmingham.
She wants me to do CyberKnife. Remember that is what they wanted to do in Naples to the medialstinal spot, but it was too dangerous because of its location.
There is now a CyberKnife machine here in B'ham. Just got here 2 months ago.
I am waiting to see if I am a candidate for CyberKnife. If I'm not, then I'll go ahead and start the Sutent. Either way, I'll do Sutent. Sutent is a chemo pill.
I don't know when I'll start, but I will certainly let you all know. I am going to be just fine. You know, I am perfectly healthy other than this cancer. The chemo is what makes me sick and that is something you have to go through so the cancer will not get out of hand.
My mom told me today that God has brought me so far through all of this...and HE has!!
Keep the prayers coming!
Much love,
Kelly
5 years ago today I had some major pain in my abdomen area which led to x-rays, scans and surgery. I am happy to sit here tonight and send this update 5 years later. If you know anything about cancer, then you know hitting the 5 year mark is a very big accomplishment. The average life span of someone with my kind of cancer after diagnosis is 32 months. Well, I have certainly beat that. :-) I actually have another goal to reach. I will let you all know when I have reached it, because I will...I have no doubt.
I had scans two weeks ago today. Saw Dr. Amanze a week ago today.
The mediastinal tumor has not changed in size, which is wonderful. This is the tumor very close to my esophogus.
Two of the lung nodules have doubled in size, the largest one now is 2.5 cm's, it's at the base of the left lung.
Dr. Amanze is referring me to an oncologist here in Birmingham.
She wants me to do CyberKnife. Remember that is what they wanted to do in Naples to the medialstinal spot, but it was too dangerous because of its location.
There is now a CyberKnife machine here in B'ham. Just got here 2 months ago.
I am waiting to see if I am a candidate for CyberKnife. If I'm not, then I'll go ahead and start the Sutent. Either way, I'll do Sutent. Sutent is a chemo pill.
I don't know when I'll start, but I will certainly let you all know. I am going to be just fine. You know, I am perfectly healthy other than this cancer. The chemo is what makes me sick and that is something you have to go through so the cancer will not get out of hand.
My mom told me today that God has brought me so far through all of this...and HE has!!
Keep the prayers coming!
Much love,
Kelly
Monday, May 18, 2009
Updating...
I have scans on June 24th. Will have appointment with Dr. Amanze the following Wednesday to get results. Just letting you know.
Kelly
Kelly
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
2/24/09 Update
Another good report is what I got today from Dr. Amanze. The tumor behind my esophagus has not changed in size since last scans. It's so amazing. This tumor was found in February of 2006. After rounds of chemo in 2006, finishing radiation in May 2007, and having the last chemo treatment on November 16, 2007....the tumor has not grown! Again I say, it's so amazing! I know God has allowed the medicine to work and it is continuing to work. WOW!
The 3 nodules in my left lung have grown just a bit. They have actually grown a slight bit each time I've had scans since 2004. The largest one is 1.6 centimeters in size. Dr. Amanze is okay with them at this point. She did tell me that if they grow to a size of 2 centimeters or more, she wants me to try a new chemo (Sutent or Nexavar). I'm not completely sold on that idea. Of course I am not going to worry about that.
I'll be scanned again in 4 months!
Thanks for letting me share...
Kelly
The 3 nodules in my left lung have grown just a bit. They have actually grown a slight bit each time I've had scans since 2004. The largest one is 1.6 centimeters in size. Dr. Amanze is okay with them at this point. She did tell me that if they grow to a size of 2 centimeters or more, she wants me to try a new chemo (Sutent or Nexavar). I'm not completely sold on that idea. Of course I am not going to worry about that.
I'll be scanned again in 4 months!
Thanks for letting me share...
Kelly
Monday, February 9, 2009
Scans next week
Hello everyone, just wanted to let you know I'll be having scans on Febraury 17th. I'll see Dr. Amanze the following Tuesday to get results.
Kelly
Kelly
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Scan results
I saw Dr. Bhandari this morning. My doctor was on hospital duty this week. I really wanted to see her, but I understand.
I got good news. He said the liver is clean with no tumors. The lung nodules have grown just the least little bit, nothing to be concerned about right now. The tumor between the esophagus and the inferior vena cava blood line has continued to shrink! Is that awesome or what? God continues to heal me and I've not have any chemo/radiation since November 16, 2007. So it's been a whole year since any treatments and the tumor is still shrinking....it gives me chills to think how amazing God is.
I'll have scans again in 3 months. Take care all and again I say thank you to each and everyone of you!
Lots of love,
Kelly
I got good news. He said the liver is clean with no tumors. The lung nodules have grown just the least little bit, nothing to be concerned about right now. The tumor between the esophagus and the inferior vena cava blood line has continued to shrink! Is that awesome or what? God continues to heal me and I've not have any chemo/radiation since November 16, 2007. So it's been a whole year since any treatments and the tumor is still shrinking....it gives me chills to think how amazing God is.
I'll have scans again in 3 months. Take care all and again I say thank you to each and everyone of you!
Lots of love,
Kelly
Monday, November 10, 2008
Quick Update
Just wanted to let everyone know I am feeling GREAT! I've got scans next week. Will update results as I get them. Thanks for all the continued prayers.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Doctor today
I'm going to see Dr. Zorn this afternoon. It's been almost 2 weeks since he took the port out. Everything is going well.
I have scans on the 18th of November.
Will see Dr. Amanze on that Thursday, November 20th.
I have scans on the 18th of November.
Will see Dr. Amanze on that Thursday, November 20th.
Friday, September 19, 2008
I'm doing well
Hello everyone,
I am home and doing well. We left the hospital around noon and I had a craving for Olive Garden. It was so good. Came home and slept until time for supper. Now I'm back in the recliner and I wanted to let you know I am doing very good. I'm sure I'm about to go back to sleep.
Hope everything is well with all of you,
Kelly
I am home and doing well. We left the hospital around noon and I had a craving for Olive Garden. It was so good. Came home and slept until time for supper. Now I'm back in the recliner and I wanted to let you know I am doing very good. I'm sure I'm about to go back to sleep.
Hope everything is well with all of you,
Kelly
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Minor Surgery
Hello everyone, I will be getting my port taken out this Friday, September 19th. Don't know what time as of right now. Will find that out tomorrow. The port has been giving me some problems, so we've decided to take it out. Not going to have another put in with the hopes that I won't need it.
I have scans again on Tuesday, November 18th and will see Dr. Amanze on Thursday, November 20th.
I will post again on Saturday to let you know how I'm doing. The surgery is minor and should take no more than 10 - 15 minutes. I will go home and sleep for hours I'm sure.
Hope everyone is well,
Kelly
I have scans again on Tuesday, November 18th and will see Dr. Amanze on Thursday, November 20th.
I will post again on Saturday to let you know how I'm doing. The surgery is minor and should take no more than 10 - 15 minutes. I will go home and sleep for hours I'm sure.
Hope everyone is well,
Kelly
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Scans report
I had scans Wednesday, July 23rd. Saw Dr. Amanze yesterday, Friday, and got a good report. The is no change in the liver which is wonderful. One of the nodules in the lung has grown 1 mm, which is no big deal. It's not even 1 cm, so we are not worried about that. And the most amazing news is the mediastinum node appears to be smaller. How awesome is that. My last radiation was end of March 2007 and the last chemo was November 2007 and it's STILL SHRINKING! How awesome is that? Don't worry, I know it's not just the medicine....I know God has his had directly over me, no doubt in my mind. I've known from the very beginning God is in complete control of this journey.
Dr. Amanze was pleased and she'll see me again in 4 months. I guess I'll have scans then, not exactly sure. One thing for sure, I will let you know.
Burt and Mama were right there beside me when I got the good news.
I want to share about my friend Rachel. I've told you all about her several times....she has been my hero during all of this since the first time I read her post on Sallie's blog. (Another awesome way God works) Even though I've not met Rachel in person, we've emailed and talked on the phone, and I know she has one of the sweetest hearts ever. While God has chosen to keep me all clear, he is letting Rachel fight the battle yet another time. I have no doubts, the doctors will get it all though. I will share her latest email with you.....
Hello!
I apologize in advance that this information is coming to you via mass email but this is the quickest and easiest way for me to tell you. Sorry.
Some of you might know that I recently had a biopsy done on a suspicious lesion on my liver. The results came back this week and confirmed that it is cancer. There is only one tumor and my doctors are confident that we have caught it early and that treatment will be successful. I don't have a lot of information to offer you right now but I do know that within the next couple of weeks I will have surgery to burn the tumor. The surgery is pretty minor but will leave me with sore ribs so if you see me around hug gently please :) I'm not sure that I will take chemo at this point but it is a possibility that I am discussing with my oncologist. I will try and keep you all posted but I'm not very great at that so feel free to email me if you haven't heard anything in a while. Sorry again for the bombshell.
Rachel
Okay, here's the deal....while we are giving God thanks for my good news, please continue to pray for Rachel as she is going through this surgery.
I am extremely lucky to have so many people in my corner....
Thanks to you all...Much love,
Kelly
Dr. Amanze was pleased and she'll see me again in 4 months. I guess I'll have scans then, not exactly sure. One thing for sure, I will let you know.
Burt and Mama were right there beside me when I got the good news.
I want to share about my friend Rachel. I've told you all about her several times....she has been my hero during all of this since the first time I read her post on Sallie's blog. (Another awesome way God works) Even though I've not met Rachel in person, we've emailed and talked on the phone, and I know she has one of the sweetest hearts ever. While God has chosen to keep me all clear, he is letting Rachel fight the battle yet another time. I have no doubts, the doctors will get it all though. I will share her latest email with you.....
Hello!
I apologize in advance that this information is coming to you via mass email but this is the quickest and easiest way for me to tell you. Sorry.
Some of you might know that I recently had a biopsy done on a suspicious lesion on my liver. The results came back this week and confirmed that it is cancer. There is only one tumor and my doctors are confident that we have caught it early and that treatment will be successful. I don't have a lot of information to offer you right now but I do know that within the next couple of weeks I will have surgery to burn the tumor. The surgery is pretty minor but will leave me with sore ribs so if you see me around hug gently please :) I'm not sure that I will take chemo at this point but it is a possibility that I am discussing with my oncologist. I will try and keep you all posted but I'm not very great at that so feel free to email me if you haven't heard anything in a while. Sorry again for the bombshell.
Rachel
Okay, here's the deal....while we are giving God thanks for my good news, please continue to pray for Rachel as she is going through this surgery.
I am extremely lucky to have so many people in my corner....
Thanks to you all...Much love,
Kelly
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Small Update
I saw Dr. Amanze last week. She said I'm looking good. Blood work was good. I'll have scans on July 21st. For the past year I've only had chest scans. I asked Dr. Amanze to please let me get abdomen, pelvic, and chest scans. I wanted to get a good look at the liver. I'll report my good news as soon as I get the results!
Thanks to everyone for your continued support...
I appreciate you more than you will ever know.
Thanks to everyone for your continued support...
I appreciate you more than you will ever know.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
April Scan results
Hello everyone....as promised I am updating. It's pretty late, but I don't really want to go to sleep. I saw Dr. Amanze today and there is no new growth, that's what we wanted to hear. There was no change in size of the tumor or the lung nodules. Isn't that wonderful!!!!!!! I was very heavy hearted walking in to the appointment. Needless to say, walking out, I felt a huge weight had been lifted off me. Thank you all for the prayers, thoughts, and never ending support. I got in the car, put the top down and rode home just breathing in the fresh air.
I'll see Dr. Amanze again in 2 months and I'll have scans in 3 months.
I'll be in touch!
Kelly
I'll see Dr. Amanze again in 2 months and I'll have scans in 3 months.
I'll be in touch!
Kelly
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
change of plans
Just wanted to let everyone know that I am having my scans today and will see Dr. Amanze Friday. Just wanted to update.
I'll be in touch on Friday.
Kelly
I'll be in touch on Friday.
Kelly
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Been to long....
Sorry I've not updated in a while. Things are going really well. I have scans this Friday. Will meet with Dr. Amanze on Tuesday. (of course I will call my nurse friend and find out asap about the results)
I've started going to the gym and exercising. It feels really great.
I promise to update as soon as I find out scan results.
Again, sorry I've not updated in a while...and thanks for all the support.
Much love,
Kelly
I've started going to the gym and exercising. It feels really great.
I promise to update as soon as I find out scan results.
Again, sorry I've not updated in a while...and thanks for all the support.
Much love,
Kelly
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Scan results
I saw Dr. Amanze today. Good news is what we got. There was no change in the tumor. She wants me to continue with NO chemo. :-) I will be scanned again in 3 months. We are very happy and very thankful. Thanks for letting us share this wonderful news with you all!
Friday, December 28, 2007
Scans next week
Hello all....I do hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and enjoyed time with your families as I did.
I am scheduled to have scans on Friday, January 4th at 2:15. I'll have to wait till the next Tuesday, January 8th at 1:30 to get results from Dr. Amanze. We'll certainly be looking for good news. Hopefully I won't have to do any more chemo. I have certainly enjoyed being off of that yucky stuff.
My hair is starting to grow back.
I'll be in touch with the results!
I am scheduled to have scans on Friday, January 4th at 2:15. I'll have to wait till the next Tuesday, January 8th at 1:30 to get results from Dr. Amanze. We'll certainly be looking for good news. Hopefully I won't have to do any more chemo. I have certainly enjoyed being off of that yucky stuff.
My hair is starting to grow back.
I'll be in touch with the results!
Friday, December 7, 2007
Just updating....
Hello everyone,
Just wanted to let you all know that I am doing well and life is good. It's been almost a month since I last posted..where does the time go? I had my last treatment on November 16th and the break has been wonderful. I had blood work about two weeks ago and everything looked good. I was pretty tired and puney feeling the first two weeks after the last treatment, but feeling better and better.
I don't have a date yet for my scans in January, but I will keep you all posted.
Hope you are all enjoying the holidays! Isn't it such a wonderful time of the year...I just love it.
Just wanted to let you all know that I am doing well and life is good. It's been almost a month since I last posted..where does the time go? I had my last treatment on November 16th and the break has been wonderful. I had blood work about two weeks ago and everything looked good. I was pretty tired and puney feeling the first two weeks after the last treatment, but feeling better and better.
I don't have a date yet for my scans in January, but I will keep you all posted.
Hope you are all enjoying the holidays! Isn't it such a wonderful time of the year...I just love it.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Exciting News :-)
Hello everyone! I am typing this with a smiling face. I saw Dr. Amanze today and she said I will finish this cycle a week from today and then take a break from the chemo. I am so happy. We'll do scans in January, so that means I'll get at least a 2 month break. I can't tell you how happy I am right now. She continues to say that the goal of the chemo is to make sure there is no new growth. If we get shrinkage on the tumor, then that is great...but the goal is to have no new growth. She told me we have options but she doesn't want to ware my body out. She is wonderful. You all know how much I appreciated Dr. Nguyen, and I must tell you....she is just as good. I can't say enough good things about her. She told me today that she was honored to be my doctor and that I was going to make it. She hugged my neck and told me that I was very special. Of course she made me cry and I thanked her for thinking outside the box for me.
I just wanted to share my good news with my huge support team out there! Thank you all for the prayers, I continue to feel them. You all are amazing!
Much love,
Kelly & Burt
I just wanted to share my good news with my huge support team out there! Thank you all for the prayers, I continue to feel them. You all are amazing!
Much love,
Kelly & Burt
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Doctor Update
I saw Dr. Amanze today. She and I are thinking the same, thank goodness. She wants me to have scans after this round of treatments, then two more. That would mean the scans would be the week of December 10th. She is thinking that maybe I can stop this chemo regimen and possibly do something else. Just wanted to update you all.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Starting another cycle
Hello all...I started another round of treatments today. Red blood cell count is a little low. Will get a shot of Araness tomorrow to help with that. Still very tired. The Araness should help with that also. All in all, everything is going pretty good.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Results from Scans
I found out Friday my results. The lung nodules have not changed in size. The paraesophageal mass appears to have shrunk by about 20%. Dr. Amanze talked to me about the dangerous location of the paraesophageal mass. I told her I understood. We will keep on doing the chemo and scan again in 3 months.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Update
I know it's been awhile since I've posted....sorry!
I started my fourth cycle today.
Had a PET scan last Friday.
Dr. Amanze said the lung nodules appeared to be smaller. The esophageal mass was difficult to see. She wants me to have a CT scan of the chest to better see the esophageal mass....or who knows, maybe it's not there. Wouldn't that be great. I'll have the scan Wednesday.
I've been doing good. I get tired real easy, but that's nothing new.
All in all, things are going well.
I started my fourth cycle today.
Had a PET scan last Friday.
Dr. Amanze said the lung nodules appeared to be smaller. The esophageal mass was difficult to see. She wants me to have a CT scan of the chest to better see the esophageal mass....or who knows, maybe it's not there. Wouldn't that be great. I'll have the scan Wednesday.
I've been doing good. I get tired real easy, but that's nothing new.
All in all, things are going well.
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