What great news, I am so happy for you! Wheeeee indeed!
My Goodwill
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abrub shared an experience
Oh No (Cancer has spread/Metastasized): Spots in the lung; I'm no longer operable. I'm now in for long-term chemo. No polite words can express my feelings.
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abrub shared an experience
Oh No (Cancer has spread/Metastasized): We've now added a lymph node. More surgery soon.
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abrub shared an experience
Procedure or Surgery (Surgery): Surgery to remove the latest new met from my appendix cancer; went more easily than I could ever have anticipated, despite being open (laparatomy.) Recovery is going extremely well
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abrub posted an update
I finally saw my scan reports from MSK (CT and MRI). I am thrilled that both show everything clean except for the slight growth in my tumor (still only about an inch in the largest dimension). No questionable spots anywhere else! Maybe this will be the end of the cancer!
My surgeon told me the only changes were in the tumor size, but it was nice to see the reports and read all the details. There was nothing in the report that "should be monitored", though I'll still have regular scans.
WHEEEEEE!
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abrub posted an update
I just spent 3 days in NYC for appointments at Memorial Sloan Kettering. The conclusion is that now is the right time for surgery; we shouldn't wait. I don’t have the detailed reports yet, although my surgeon has them. My metastatic appendix tumor has grown, but still appears to be confined in scar tissue. However, it is starting to press against my bowel, and it’s time to have it removed. No other spots are showing, which is good, as there were some questionable areas left after my surgery in 2016. To date, there has been absolutely no growth or indication of recurrence there. My surgeon is very happy that we had all of this pre-scheduled, in anticipation of the likely need for surgery. We’re anticipating 4-6 days in the hospital, but understand that is not set in stone. Surgery is set for Feb. 12.
Of interest, I’ve been asked to participate in a research study of genetics vs. mutations. The DNA of my tumor and of my blood (considered normal) will be tested for both genetic markers and mutational markers to see what, if anything can be learned about this (and other) cancers. Where my tumor DNA differs from my blood DNA will indicate mutation rather than genetic predisposition. It should be interested, and I will be given a full report. A link to the study: https://www.mskcc.org/msk-impact
My head is in a good place; no panic mode yet! I've known I would need more surgery - the question has been when, and as it turned out, this is perfect timing medically as well as convenience for me and my family. In anticipation, I scheduled it at my convenience; allowing me to enjoy a half season of curling, and to have my family around me (our daughter lives in Nepal).; Though I'll be down and out for the rest of the winter, come spring I'll be back in my kayak.
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abrub started following
Question: Chemo Dread..Mouth Soreness