Treatment Plans

Good news! 

The state of my body is pretty much sorted out and plans are in place.

I am feeling so relieved and relaxed that it’s been a challenge to get the plan written up for all you blog followers to see.

Radiation:

This coming week preparations for the radiation treatments to the tumor will continue. Some take place ‘behind the scenes’, others require my presence, with the end goal being that radiation is directed precisely at the area of the tumor.

The actual sessions to zap the tumor will begin July 5 and will take place Monday through Friday, probably at around 3:30 to 4pm in the afternoon, for about six weeks and change. I forgot to ask how many of them they want to do. I believe it’s 30 to 35. If all goes well, I will be done in the middle of August. Done with treatments, but facing a couple of weeks of healing to the radiated area. Think mega sunburn to tender area.

I am grateful that I enjoy hanging out on my couch and that my cat has an endless appetite for my lap. I am also grateful that I tolerate pain pretty well – especially when I know it will eventually be gone.

Chemotherapy:

Well, I don’t get to skate by chemo this time. I understand that it is because this tumor is two cm. in size. One cm. – no chemo. Two cm. – chemo. Oh well. The thing is still considered ‘small’ by all who speak of it, and – best news! – I won’t be throwing up and/or losing my hair! Research has found that chemo used in conjunction with the radiation gives a greater degree of  success in eradicating all the cancer cells. It is particularly designed to eradicate any stray cancer cells that might released into the rest of my body as the radiation disintegrates and destroys the tumor.

There will be two chemo treatments, one on the first day of radiation and the second four weeks later. I get a 10-minute drip, and then I will wear a little pump with, I guess, a little reservoir of chemo cocktail that will slowly go into me over five days. It’s all contained in a little fanny pack thing.

Prognosis: 90% cure rate. The docs and I think my odds are even better than that because I am officially declared to be ‘healthy as a horse.’

Prayer warriors: I would ask that you join me in praising our God for his mercy! I will write more on how I believe I needed this kick in the _ _ _. That it is only gentle boot is such a blessing.

Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!

How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!

Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?

Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?

For from him and through him and to him are all things.

To him be the glory forever! Amen.

Romans 11:33-36
I would recommend also Isaiah Chapter 40 - all of it!