Hello Everyone - I hope this post finds you happy, healthy, full of life, full of love, and full of hope. I know that I have experienced all of these at different times of my life - they are wonderful!
I have been on my current medication for 3 months now. It has resulted in white hair and frequent visits to the restroom. Overall, I have been tolerating the medication very well - compared to other medications I have had. I had my scans and doctor's appointment last week and lets just say that the tumors have been tolerating my medication better than we had hoped.
I have 3 main areas where clumps of tumors light up in the scans - neck, chest, lower back. The first two areas had increased tumor size and increased glowiness (new word I just invented). The third area had part growth and part shrinkage. So, not all bad news.
We reached out to current and former doctors and asked for their opinions in the matter. Two suggested giving the current medication a little longer - see if it is a late bloomer (would fit my life thus far). This would allow me to enjoy the Holiday season more so than if I was on a stronger medication. One doctor gave a different medication cocktail as an alternative to the current medication. So we compromised (pay attention congress). I am going to stay on the current medication until mid-January at which time I will have another scan. If the tumors have continued to grow (statistically the more probable outcome - but I have been the exception to the rule), we will switch to the other cocktail suggested by the third doctor (unless something better has been discovered between now and then).
PLAN IN PLACE! Now I can sit back and the enjoy the Holiday Season, worry-free, without a care in the world ; ) (I wish that was how it worked.)
My heart goes out to all those that live with chronic illness and/or pain. A day does not go by that we are not reminded of our limitations or the uncertainly of the future. Please keep up the fight. Do not give up. The people around us, the ones who love and care for us, do not see a broken person. They see a child of God with divine potential, capable of doing many great things! You are loved by many. You are loved by a Father in Heaven who watches over you each day.
Let us press forward together, never giving in to the adversary and the lies he would have us believe. Our life has purpose. Our life has meaning. We can serve, lift and help others. Every kind act, no matter how small, is pleasing to Father in Heaven. Rely on the Savior and he will lift you up and show you your divine mission on this earth. I know He will!
Thank you all for your prayers, faith, love, hope, and encouragement. I am blessed to know you and I do feel the power of your faith in my behalf.
With Love - Doug : )
