Monday, April 14, 2008

CT scan and stuff

We found out the CT scan results today. The results were good. There was additional shrinkage of the cancer cells this time around as well, although the shrinkage was much less as compared to previous shrinkage. This means we will be doing two more rounds of chemotherapy. The doctor expects that future shrinkage will be minimal and these next two rounds are intended to acheive all the shrinkage that we can get before stopping the chemotherapy.
Todays planned chemotherapy was postponed by one week. The doctor wanted to give me a break since the last round was particularly rough. We will start a new round next Monday. Once the next two rounds of chemotherapy are complete, I will go onto the maintenance drugs. The drugs are designed to maintain the current level of the cancer and hopefully prevent additional growth. The side effects of the maintenance drugs are minimal so it will allow me to get back to as normal a life as possible. Chances are the cancer will start to grow again at some point in the future even while on the maintenance drugs. At that time I will go back onto chemotherapy. Perhaps using a different recipe.
My hair has started to grow back. Particularly my eyebrows and chest hair. I still shave my head so I did not notice it there. It has been somewhat emasculating that my 8-year old son has more chest hair that I do:) The doctor says this hair growth is likely temporary growth as my hair will not really start to grow back until I am completely off the chemotherapy. So I am guessing that it will be about 8 weeks from now before I see any real growth.
Well I am looking forward to a good week this week before the next round. Take care. -Eric

4 comments:

Meridee said...

Hats off to the doctor for giving you an extra week to rest! I'm not sure I could have gone back in again today. We are excited for the positive report...MOM and DAD

Brentster said...

That is great news Eric! Thanks for the updates and We are all happy that things are heading in a positive direction. btw, no need to worry about chest hair, who needs a sweater in the middle of summer anyway :)

Evan said...

Super cool Eric.

Ev

Laurel said...

Hey Eric, I just recently heard what you are going through. I was stunned to say the least. It is awesome to see your strengh through this ordeal. You and your family are in my prayers.
- Mike Leishman