Finally, word from the medical experts. Dr. Chang in Goldsboro and Dr. Javle in Texas both agree on some very important things. Keep in mind that to Diane and me - this is VERY good news.
In fact, this may be the VERY best news we have received in years.
Here is the deal: I have pancreatic cancer. I was diagnosed in November of 2011. In "normal" people, this means that this is a short-term terminal prognosis. But I am not normal. Here is what the doctors now agree upon.
*My pain is coming from a very small cluster of cancer cells in the region of the original sight. As we know, the cancer numbers have been bouncing all over the place for two years, so this cancer is also where that is coming from.
*Good news. Now we know. That is much better than not knowing.
*Better news. This cancer has probably been there for the entire time. It may be that they could not get it during my surgery, or that it just developed there shortly afterward. Whatever the case, this cancer is very "slow-growing."
*Better news. My oncologist are calling this disease "chronic" instead of "terminal." For those of you who have not had to understand the difference between the two, terminal means that I am supposed to die from the disease. Chronic means that I will probably have to deal with this disease for the rest of my life.
*Best news. Chronic means that this cancer is treatable and that the rest of my life may be "long-term."
*More best news. We have a plan. It does involve more chemotherapy, but on a much lower physical punishment level for me. Since it is long-term, we can make slight changes as we go along to improve my quality of life while taking it.
*Absolutely best news: God has a plan and I am still a part of it. No matter how long "long-term" is, I am thankful.
Please take a moment to pray a prayer of thanks to Jesus for me. I know that you have been praying for some good news. Now that we have some, please thank Him.
No comments:
Post a Comment