All Clear! (2011-12-24)

Fri (8/26) I went to MD Anderson for a follow-up checkup of my previous visit in Feb 2011. In February, my doctors had noted a small "something" (they called it a "focus") on one the images on my CT-scan. At that time, they indicated it did not look or have characteristics typical of a cancer, and should not pose any major concern. But we decided to have this follow-up check-up in August just to confirm. And so I had a CT-scan and blood work.

On Mon (8/29) I saw my oncologist. He still did not give me the 100% clear results. This August CT-scan showed the same small "focus" on my liver as the one in February. But he noted it still had characteristics as being benign (not cancerous). My actual report also stated there was no definite evidence of recurring cancer, which was good news. But I would still meet with my surgeon on Wed for his review.

On Wed (8/31) I saw my surgeon. He indicated the results from the scan were ALL CLEAR!! His analysis was the small "focus" on the liver was vascular related, and did not show ANY signs or characteristics of being cancer! His parting words were for me to come back in 6 months as a final checkup. And if all good results then, there would not be a need for me to return for any more checkups, and in their opinion I would be declared officially "cancer free"!!

My next checkup is scheduled for Feb 2012. Will post results then. Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

"7-Year Mark" – Almost! (2011-03-20)

Tue (2/22) I went to MD Anderson for my liver cancer checkup. As before, I had a CT-scan, chest x-ray, and blood work. Wed (2/23) I reviewed with my doctor. Even though all my previous results were excellent and clear, my anticipation is always a little anxious.

Well, this time I didn’t quite get the 100% all clear, as they did detect a small image of “something” on the CT-scan. I reviewed this with my surgeon and physician assistant. In their opinion, it had a very low probability of even being a cancer. It didn’t have typical characteristics of a cancer. And it didn’t show up on all the CT-scan image slides, like a typical cancer would. It could possibly be a blood vessel (from the contrast), or something benign, or nothing.

Since my initial diagnosis, both my surgeon and physician assistant have followed my case since day-1, and are very familiar with it and me. I also have trust in them and in their decisions as well. I initially asked about a 3 month check-up. But they said that would be a little too early for them to gauge. And recommended 6 months would be more optimal if in fact it WAS something.

My long-time friend who also works at MDA was with me for my results. She has been with me through my entire journey as well. And also knows both the surgeon and physician assistant. Based on all our talks, I decided to go with the 6 month check-up. Just to be sure and confirm any concerns I may have. I feel comfortable about it too, and so in August I’ll go for the check-up.

My hope was this would have been my 7-year remission anniversary! But I’ll just have to wait and celebrate a little later. In fact, August is my birthday. So that would be a great birthday gift, which I can certainly wait for!

So until next time, thank you all for being a part of my continuing journey. Next update in August!