So saw the doctor today and got some new scans. They did a brain MRI, and a spinal MRI. Low and behold they found out the reason for my entire right arm being in pain, and randomly going numb. Apparently I have a new met (tumor) that is in my spine. Its pushing on the nerves in my shoulder, which is the cause of my pain and numbness. My whole body scan is still set for tuesday and see the doc again on wednesday. This will tell us if there is cancer anywhere else.
Whats the plan? Well after they told us the news they had us go see my radiation oncologist. As of right now our plan is to zap the met with radiation. This will help the pain. Even if they find other mets on my spine we cant do radiation on them. The risks are too high. It would cause me to become very very sick and so far my melanoma is resistant. They wouldnt be able to give me a high enough dose to help. Zoning in on this one met thats causing pain will mean they can zap it at a higher level. Also, I wont as sick. This is our best option right now. Granted when we find out more on wednesday our plans will likely change. They need the entire picture before we can do the treatment planning. As for now we are 100% doing radiation on the one portion of my spine. This is to help me not be in pain daily.
Today they went ahead and got me into the radiation computer so they can program the machines to me. They also got my new mask made. This mask goes half way down my chest. (good times) They plan on starting radiation on tuesday. The doctor is eager to get my pain under control. Im pretty happy about it.
You know its bad when the radiation therapists see you walk in 2 weeks after they last saw you, and their faces sort of sink. When I explained why I was there, they gave me hugs and we moved forward trying to get treatment planned. Im lucky to have a good team that I enjoy spending time with. Im now wrapping my head around a 3rd round of radiation. Granted its in a new area (not my head) but still. Anytime you bring the spine into things (not to downplay the brain) the risk is great.
So that is where we stand. Crummy news before a long, holiday weekend. I still plan on enjoying my weekend despite the news. We have a lobster boil, and a concert to go to. Im super excited. Even crappy news isnt going to ruin this weekend for me. I may have to be drugged out of my mind to be comfy, but Im going to that concert!
Cassandra, your strength is amazing. I am impressed by your will to make the best of all situations. I've been following your blog for the last few months, always wanting to laugh and cry with you through the good times and the other. My mother found your blog while researching the yervoy treatments. Her next door neighbor was diagnosed back in feb with stage 4 lung melanoma. One evening while my 3 kids were inside the house screaming at each other I was outside knocking on my neighbors door looking for teenage help to no avail. It was then that I resorted to calling my all wise mommy who told me how wonderful my kids are and how lucky I am to have them. She gave me a homework assignment to read your blog and call her ( at midnight) when I finished, to give her my report. I learned a lot that night. You had me laughing out loud and my side in stitches as you confirmed my so far 13 year stand on no dogs! I shared that part with my hubby. I have always wanted to write you, but knowing that reading is a difficult task, I've been hesitant. This blog did it for me. You are such a pillar of strength. I am sure that your hubby feels so lucky to have such an amazing companion. Baby is lucky too! I pray for you daily. I think of you throughout my days. I wish we were neighbors! Hang in there! Jennifer
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! Im glad you enjoy the blog. My reading is much better these days. Im happy to answer any questions or comments. Thank you for your prayers, we do appreciate all the support we can get. Ive always been a happy person, looking at the bright side. For me it takes too much energy to be angry/depressed. Its just much easier to see the good.
DeleteI understand what you were saying about your kids. I only have the one, but I remember growing up and the chaos that can happen. For me I just have to take a step back and laugh. Kids/ teenagers yepping about stupid stuff. My husband stops and always says to me "will it matter in 10 years? NO, so lets move on" haha. I wish my 15 mo old understood that phrase. Heck and feeding the dog goldfish is the least of our worries. Could be worse. :)
Thank you for your comments again. Im always open to talking to new people.