Thursday, October 22, 2009

Two weeks into treatment

Since my last entry, I got my MRI results, which the doctor says are "inconclusive." The multiple lesions on my liver are between 2mm - 5mm in size, which is smaller than a 6 mm pencil eraser. No cancer lit up in them even with the MRI. But due to the small size, the doctor won't rule out cancer within them. The only way they will know for sure if the lesions aren't cancerous is if they react to my chemotherapy. So they will watch for a reaction. If they don't change, then they are benign. They might either be from a past infection I may have had, or from a hereditary condition that causes such lesions. I am hopeful that either of these are the case, and that the only cancer in my liver is in the right lobe where they found the metastasized tumor.

I also found out who my surgeon will be at UNC, and I got my first choice, Dr. Benjamin Calvo. My initial visit with him is scheduled for November 30th. And I'm certainly looking forward to getting his opinion on how my treatment has been administered thus far and if he suggests any adjustments.

The chemo and radiation treatments so far have been extremely time consuming and I am starting to feel side effects of nausea, heartburn, sore throat, skin irritation, but I also can tell that the rectal tumor is shrinking, and the bleeding has almost subsided. Most of all, the pain caused by the rectal tumor has been significantly reduced.

And finally this past week I have been so touched by all your emails and the special ways that some of you have reached out to me. I wish I had time to answer each email personally, but there just isn't. But know that each comment and email gets read, and that they certainly lift my spirits. Please keep them coming.

5 comments:

  1. Stacy,
    I'm glad to hear that you are finally getting some good news. Know that I am thinking about you and that we miss you in class.
    Dr. Wilson

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  2. Hi Stacy,
    Although we have always known each other peripherally, I want you to know that you are front & center in my prayers right now.
    much love & many hugs your way,
    Corrine

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  3. Isaiah 26:3 - You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you because He trusts in you.

    Focus on Him, Stacy. I join your friends and family in prayers for you. Hugs to Takashi and TK.

    Angela

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  4. Wow Stacy,
    You are facing this with such courage. Keep that strength that God provides and let his grace be evident to all. You're a fantastic example. Really appreciate the details and knowing that you're feeling less pain and that the chemo is working. My church continues to pray for you -- as do I daily!
    Love and hugs, Betsy

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  5. Hi Stacy,

    I wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts every day. Ever since we were kids, I have known you are a person of great inner strength. I know you will draw from that strength now. I am here if you need anything!

    Much love,
    Robyn (Swift) Iarrobino

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