May 26, 2009

All –

Late this afternoon I had the reading of my CT scan from Friday.  Dr. Socinski tells us it looks “good” with “no evidence of metastasis”.   He could not comment on the original tumors given the “radiation changes” seen on the scan which are clouding the area.  (They don’t call them radiation “damages” but when asked what “changes” means the answer is “scar tissue, fluid accumulation, collapse, etc.” so damage is an appropriate term.)  He feels that with my overall improvement and the fact that there does not appear to be any new tumors that I am still a candidate for “cure”.  He wants me to have an Xray in 2 months, a repeat scan in 4 months.  The radiation “changes” are likely to continue to heal some more even this far out from the radiation therapy which ended 6 months ago. 

I am on stretch 4 of the esophagus, with likely 2 – 3 more stretches needed to correct the problem.  I am eating better and my weight is picking up (I can’t believe I am actually happy about that!) which are both HUGE praises.  Also, I am encouraged that Dr. Socinski is still expecting a cure in my case and still some improvement with the radiation “changes”.  I continue to struggle with strength and stamina, chest pain which is ongoing between the esophagus and radiation “changes” in the lung, and my overall morale. 

This has been a long hard road for all of us.  Our lives have been turned upside down and inside out.  But I remain so grateful to everyone for their prayers, concern, love and support.  I am reminded each time I visit that hospital how truly blessed I am and for how much I have to be thankful.  No one can tell me why I got lung cancer.  And no one can tell me it is gone and will or will not return.  The only thing I can be certain of is that God is in control of this situation.  And I am learning that is enough. 

Our news today was good.  Praise God!  Thank you all for your prayers and many other efforts that got us here. 

Have a great summer –

Kay and family

May 6, 2009

Dear Friends,

It’s been a little while since my last update and I thought it might be a good idea to check in and let you know how things are going. 

I am actually back at work on a very limited basis, and it feels great to be there.  My organization and its staff have been so good to my family and me, it’s incomprehensible, really it is.  They have just been there for us at every turn, like all of you.  We are so grateful for God’s continued provision.

My esophagus has continued to give me problems.  Scar tissue has formed and constricted the area, closing it up completely at one point.  I have had it “stretched” 3 times now (small procedure done under heavy sedation) and that has helped significantly.  It is wonderful to be able to eat a full meal!!!!  Consequently, I am feeling stronger since I am now able to get the nourishment I need.  Praise the Lord!  They expect that I will have to have this procedure done at least once again in the near future, but for now we are making progress with the esophogitis. 

I go in on Friday, May 22 for another CT scan, results to be given on Tuesday, May 26.  This scan is given at the 6 month anniversary of the beginning of the treatment.  The doctors will be comparing this scan to previous ones to see if there has been any change.  Please keep us in your prayers as we go through this process.  (Whew!) 

Once again, please know how grateful we are to each of you for your support and consideration of us.  God has raised a virtual army to care for us and we are continually amazed and thankful for all He has done.   We know your prayers have made all the difference!

We’ll keep you posted. 

Kay and family