Thursday, October 18, 2007

Stable !!


Well, the results from my most recent CT scan (Tuesday) show that there has been no significant change since the previous scan. Given it was only a 6-week interval, rather than the usual 3 months, my oncologist considers this a very good result. Also, my lungs are sounding improved and there is some evidence of functional improvement. He was very happy with this results.


So, while of course I would rather see continued shrinkage, "stable" is also very good news. In fact, my oncologist suggests that we may not see further shrinkage from this drug, and that continued stability is a good outcome. I am also glad that the cancer continues to be limited to my lungs and internal lymph nodes, there is no evidence of any further spread. I'm not sure how significant that really is, but it makes ME happy.


My heart is also still in good shape and so I will have two more treatments of the Myocet + Cytoxin and then there will be a discussion as to what to do next. It will likely be a switch to a different chemo drug (Navelbine was mentioned), but we will know more at that time....


The chemo room was full today, and since I did not have a treatment booked (pending results of scans) I have a day or two "off" and will return for my next treatment as soon as they can fit me in.
Thank you so much to all my friends and family, and acquaintances and colleagues who continue to check in on me through this blog. And for all of you who continue to think about and pray for me and my family, your warm thoughts are appreciated and it helps me to stay strong and to keep my hope strong.
Cheers to all - Joanne

13 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Joanne,

Stable is great! We will take it. Certainly not as good as shrinking but encouraging nonetheless. Glad to hear that you and the doc are pleased with it. You continue to be in our thoughts. We so appreciate the opportunity to join your journey through this blog. Thanks for writing.

Peggy and Johnny

Anonymous said...

Hi Joanne, great news. Judy

Anonymous said...

Hi Jo,
Thanks for the update. Very glad to hear that things are stable. Take care.
Darryl

Anonymous said...

Hello Dear Joanne, Great news. I also appreciate the opportunity to feel a part of your incredible journey. Thanks for writing to us. you and your are in my thoughts and prayers every day. Love. Claire

Fe said...

Hullo gorgeous girl...

That is such WONDERFUL news!!! I have tears rolling down my cheeks just reading about it.

You are so very precious to me, as you are to all of your friends, and I know that they will all be sharing in your joy at this news.

Now.... on another subject..... is there a new series of Corner Gas?

xxxxxxxxxxx

Anonymous said...

Dear Joanne,
Thanks for the update - your blog is a great vehicle to keep us (and we are many) informed. It sounds like very good news, particularly that there is no spread of the cancer. It's good to hear that you and your oncologist are happy with the results. Enjoy your "days off" - good timing so you can enjoy your birthday. With much love and hope we send our birthday greetings. May today be sweet! Love, Nick and Lorraine

Anonymous said...

Hi Jo,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!
So happy to hear that you are stable. Enjoy your special day and I hope that you are spoiled today.
Talk to you soon,
Kelly

Anonymous said...

....happy birthday...!
Darryl

Anonymous said...

Hi Jo! Wonderful news!! This really is great, from a medical perspective... I'll bet the next scan shows further shrinkage! I'm sure this is, in part, due to the strong individual you are and your ability to tolerate the "crap" of chemo. Ray's Mom is doing very well too... bald, beautiful, and getting stronger. Both you and my mother-in-law are testaments to the fact that "attitude is everything"... or at least half your battle! Keep up your wonderful, strong spirit and continue to take good care of yourself. Love to all, especially you.

Jan
xo

Anonymous said...

PS - A very HAPPY belated birthday to you Joanne! Mmmwah!

Jan
xo

Anonymous said...

Happy Birthday Joanne!!
Hope you had a great day. Glad to hear things are stable and that you had a few days off to celebrate.
So nice to be able to log on and hear from you. After so many years you are still missed here. I continue to run into your former coworkers who sing your praises.
Hope you are feeling good and have a good book on the go.

Anonymous said...

..oops. Love, Patti.

Anonymous said...

Joanne,

Stable is wonderful. Great News!

love,
Jen