Mon (8/25) went to MD Anderson for 6-month liver cancer checkup. Usual CT scan, chest x-ray, blood tests. Wed (8/27) and Thu (8/28) reviewed with doctors. Results were excellent! No signs of metastic/recurring cancer - no new masses found. Said to come back in 6 months.
On Thu (8/28) I met met my new medical oncologist (chemo doctor). My previous doctor left MDA for a position on the East coast. My new doctor is great! We also had an interesting discussion about my case.
My type of liver cancer originates in the bile ducts. It’s called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. It’s pretty rare – even for MDA. Most people don’t survive this type of cancer. As usually it’s detected too late, after the cancer has spread (note, mine had not spread). All this I already knew.
But then he called me one of the 5%. I inquired more. He indicated that for all folks with my particular type of cancer, to survive 4-5 years like I have (I'm almost at 4-1/2 years cancer free) - only about 5% of the total cases do that.
I must say that was a shocker to me!! I certainly didn't know that! He mentioned my early detection was one key. I added the excellent doctors and facilities at MDA, and their aggressive treatments, were also instrumental in saving my life, and in keeping me here today as a survivor.
As I left his office, I reflected more on his comments. How everyone’s cancer is unique and personal to them. But for all of us with cancer, one should never give up hope. And there is always a chance for successful treatments and in becoming a long-time survivor. Even for the 5%’ers - like me!!!!
On Thu (8/28) I met met my new medical oncologist (chemo doctor). My previous doctor left MDA for a position on the East coast. My new doctor is great! We also had an interesting discussion about my case.
My type of liver cancer originates in the bile ducts. It’s called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. It’s pretty rare – even for MDA. Most people don’t survive this type of cancer. As usually it’s detected too late, after the cancer has spread (note, mine had not spread). All this I already knew.
But then he called me one of the 5%. I inquired more. He indicated that for all folks with my particular type of cancer, to survive 4-5 years like I have (I'm almost at 4-1/2 years cancer free) - only about 5% of the total cases do that.
I must say that was a shocker to me!! I certainly didn't know that! He mentioned my early detection was one key. I added the excellent doctors and facilities at MDA, and their aggressive treatments, were also instrumental in saving my life, and in keeping me here today as a survivor.
As I left his office, I reflected more on his comments. How everyone’s cancer is unique and personal to them. But for all of us with cancer, one should never give up hope. And there is always a chance for successful treatments and in becoming a long-time survivor. Even for the 5%’ers - like me!!!!
