I went to see Dr Scott Lunin today and he provided me with a report from the radiologist that reads as follows:
Observation
PA and Lateral Chest
FINDINGS: PA and lateral views F the chest obtained on 12-17-07 again demonstrate a para tracheal mass on the right. This mass is significantly decreased in size since the prior study, now measuring 5.9 X 3.8 cm in longitudinal and transverse dimensions. The mass previously measured 9.0 X 7.1 cm in similar dimensions.
Heart size is normal. There is minimal atherosclerosis on the thoracic aorta. Pulmonary vascularity appears to be within normal limits. There appears to be minimal apical pleura thickening. There is a prominent bulla within the right apex identified, unchanged from the prior study, and measuring 7cm in size.
Impression
Significant decrease in size of a previously noted right para tracheal mass when compared to the study of 10-2-07. A preliminary report was provided with this examination. Progression of findings was not seen on the current study
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I would say that is good news, wouldn't you? Scott Lunin seemed to think that we could not have hoped for better news as this means I have been highly receptive to the current treatment. I am scheduled for a CT and PET scan in mid January and we will begin consolidation chemo after that. My blood count was about the same as last time we checked, but should improve over the course of the next month.
I came home to celebrate and was greeted by Yoko with the news that she had gotten a $180 speeding ticket on Veterans Blvd for going 60 in a 45 MPH zone. Yoko blamed Mom for distracting her while she was driving. Before Yoko even finished telling her story, Jessie walked in the door. She has the estimate to fix her little fender bender...total would be about $600 for the bumper and about $500 for the small dent in her door. So within about 2 minutes of arriving home, the two girls has brought home $1300 in damages and expenses.
We decided to pop a bottle of champagne nonetheless. The consolidation chemo will probably begin in February and go on for three or four months....that would take us to April or May. Travel plans will have to be postponed until then. Anyway, I wanted to share with you this bit of good news, which is very encouraging.
I am also finally eating without as much pain. I enjoyed lunch today (I had sweet and sour at a Local Thai restaurant) and am looking forward to having more "solid food" again. I weighed in at the doctors today at 152 lbs....about the same weight as when I started chemo radiation.
I am never going to be cancer free; but I think today's results say that I am on my way to extending my life expectancy. Let's hope things continue to move in a positive direction.
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5 comments:
Tom, that is just fantastic! I couldn't be happier for this progress! Cheers! By the way, when Mom and Dad visited me, I got a speeding ticket with both of them in the car with me...and I said "thank you" to the officer! Mom and Dad always laughed at how polite I was and thought they raised me right. Hee hee :) Ugh!
Tommy what fantastic news! I'm glad the girls are in town safe and sound despite the fact you are down some cash as a result..oh what i have to look forward to when jack and keith start driving!! i'm planning on doing the 7 different fish for christmas eve-sans the eel..i'm the only one that eats it, so i'll have to substitute. hope you have a wonderful holiday..love to everyone! Joanie
Tommy, that is just wonderful....what a great way to celebrate the holiday season. I am thrilled! Have a great time with girls and mom. Give my love to Yoko.
I heard that mom said, "Merry Christmas," to the officer when she got her ticket...
Wonderful wonderful news!!!I don't know that you could hope for more. Cops....certainly know how to make your holidays merry. David got a similar ticket in VA the first weekend in December coming back from the lake. His was something like $110. Mike's car did not start when he tried to get home for winter break. He ended up getting home 4 days after his finals ended. Had the radiator fixed to the tune of $360 and again yesterday the car did not start. He's hitching rides with friends to finish his Christmas shopping and will use my car to get to Bill's for Christmas. So far tickets, car repairs $600...time with your family???priceless?? does that mean there is no end to the expense of them. Love to all. Hi girls.
janie
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