Ask Leo Hanes All About Lung Cancer

“Being optimistic is a daily decision made with both my mind and heart”

A reminder that I was quite optimistic about today, yet we were both nervous…….

0915 appointment with Dr Kessels

My last appointment had been May 22, just before radiation treatment completed May 27

The doctor showed us x-rays, and pointed out only a small scar tissue visible.

This was good news, good results, and remission (others with similar results have enjoyed remission for a long term)

Blood work was normal, and kidney function was still ok

“NOTHING IS GOOD”

Dr Kessels used the word remission finally, saying that several other similar patients results have stayed in remission for a long time,,,,,,,,

I joined that team willingly starting today!!

Next, follow up x-ray and appointment after 2 months, Sept 4, then 3 months, then 4 etc

What a relief !!

We went to lunch at the Best Western Hotel, a special celebration!!

Great News !!

After two cycles of chemotherapy treatment , a blood test and CT Scan were completed yesterday.

Today we met with Dr Roerdink at 1100, as my primary oncologist was sick this week, where we reviewed side effects again, yesterdays blood test, and CT Scan.

He revealed that the lung tumor itself had been reduced significantly in size, and in viewing the CT Scan differences from the first one taken a few weeks ago, it was apparent that the tumor had shrunk in excess of 50%, maybe even 65%.

That is great news, we are headed in the right direction, the chemotherapy treatments are being effective.

The blood test revealed that a kidney function test needs to be monitored closely again - I must ensure that I drink 2-3 liters of fluids daily.

So the 3^rd cycle of chemotherapy treatments will start again tomorrow, with some additional fluids added to help keep those kidneys flushed.

The good news again is that he is predicting only another two cycles of chemotherapy ( total of 4, instead of 6 ) will be needed, assuming this progress continues… then a schedule of radiation treatments will be scheduled.

This is a great relief to us, even though it appeared from the doctors facial expressions as he reviewed the CT Scan initially without speaking that he was concerned about something…….needless to say the emotions were all over the map, followed by a surge of relief when he finally explained the findings ,,,,,,Whew!!

After getting home, Tammy ( my oldest daughter) presented me with three Canadian Mounties memorabilia - a mug, a magnet, and a set of playing cards, all with various scenes from Canada, and the Royal Canadian Mounties…

For those who have not heard ,,,,one of our families battle cries has been….Do not fear the Mounties are here…..they always get their man ( in this case the cancer cells)…..SMILEEEEEEEEEE