Progress Scans!

Kelli has done such a great job writing so far I haven't felt the need to add anything to the blog. Of course she wanted me to be the one to share our good news so I'm sorry you don't get to read one of her good posts for this update. :)

Finally after all the delays with my last fever and hospital stay, we were able to get the first set of MRIs and PET/CT scans done since my diagnosis scans were done back in September. We got a partial report back from the radiologist last week but there was quite a bit of confusing medical jargon throughout the radiologist's summary so we decided to wait until our Dr. called yesterday with an interpretation to share any news.

Anyway, on to the good news, my oncologist told us yesterday that the scans looked better than expected and that my progress both surprised and impressed her. Such a relief to finally learn that we're making some progress and to realize that the umpteen days we've spent in the hospital and countless other sick days have been and are worth it! When I was diagnosed, I had a number of tumors throughout my upper body and head- here is the current status of each of them:
Arm bone - now GONE
Collarbones - all GONE
Forehead -Shrunk partially
Neck & Jaw - Shrunk significantly (75%+)
Back of skull - Shrunk partially
Nasal cavity - Shrunk significantly (75%+)

According to my doctor, my tumors are sized and positioned to respond well to the radiation treatments which are starting on Monday and will last for the next six weeks. I'm definitely not looking forward to the side effects that are going to come with radiation but I'm anxious to keep progressing.

Here are a couple of pictures of me before chemo and currently. Aside from the obvious Mr. Clean makeover the biggest outward change has been that tumor on the left side of my neck/jaw is now completely undetectable when I feel my face. It felt huge when we first started and was what tipped us off to the problem in the first place.

We still have a long ways to go but I'm excited to be able to share this great news with everyone. Thank you all for you continued love, prayers and support!

John