The good, the bad and the ugly
The radiologists were right in spotting something they did not like on the x-ray. One of the spots has grown quite a lot - to 2cm.
However, there was some good news too, which made the whole thing "fascinating" according to Dr Savage. Some of the pulminory nodules appear to have reduced in size - what they call spontaneous regression. Obviously this would be great news if it had been all of them. Still, it shows Quent's body is trying to fight the spots (with some success) and that has to be encouraging, even if it is unlikely to last. Apparently the radiologist who wrote up the CT scan concluded that Quent had shown a "mixed response to treatment". This is quite concerning for other renal cell carcinoma patients, who may not be as keen on a course of ice diving.
I was very excited by this news - we cling to anything that can give us hope and "spontaneous regression" is a sunny sounding phrase. For once Quent is more cautious. Partly because he points out that it's only some spots and that, overall, we are still approaching a course of nasty treatment. And partly, I suspect, because he has been feeling more tired recently at the end of a day's work.
In spite of the larger spots, Dr Savage is in no rush to do anything, treatment-wise. He reminds us that Quent is feeling relatively well at the moment and that all the drugs (even the new ones) have lots of side effects that make you feel quite rotten.
So we don't have to go back until after Easter.
However, there was some good news too, which made the whole thing "fascinating" according to Dr Savage. Some of the pulminory nodules appear to have reduced in size - what they call spontaneous regression. Obviously this would be great news if it had been all of them. Still, it shows Quent's body is trying to fight the spots (with some success) and that has to be encouraging, even if it is unlikely to last. Apparently the radiologist who wrote up the CT scan concluded that Quent had shown a "mixed response to treatment". This is quite concerning for other renal cell carcinoma patients, who may not be as keen on a course of ice diving.
I was very excited by this news - we cling to anything that can give us hope and "spontaneous regression" is a sunny sounding phrase. For once Quent is more cautious. Partly because he points out that it's only some spots and that, overall, we are still approaching a course of nasty treatment. And partly, I suspect, because he has been feeling more tired recently at the end of a day's work.
In spite of the larger spots, Dr Savage is in no rush to do anything, treatment-wise. He reminds us that Quent is feeling relatively well at the moment and that all the drugs (even the new ones) have lots of side effects that make you feel quite rotten.
So we don't have to go back until after Easter.
posted by Helen at 3/09/2007 01:29:00 pm
4 Comments:
Great to have some positive news and proof that all Helen's good care, spelt crackers and ice diving have their part to play!
HLxxx
Long time no chat! Sorry ... I have been keeping up to date with all the messages though. The pictures of your holiday are fab, really great to see you all having a good time and Quent you're looking good, God knows why you wanted to go Ice Diving what was there to see except ice? The Great Barrier Reef would've been a better dive, maybe that could be your next trip. Lifes a bit manic at the moment as well as being a teaching assistant at the girl's school I also co chair the pta so it's non stop. Anyway you are as ever always in my thoughts.
lots of love hugs and kisses
Janice xxxxxx
Hey Helen, What a great set of photos! You really have a talent, girl! Having been in Canada in temperatures of -38 wind chill -50 I can see the fun in Ice diving . Hell, I even contemplated it but it was wrapped up in the Spar and sauna scene and no wet suite was offered! Good to hear that some of the spots have reduced in size.Where are you planning to go over Easter? Sailing off the Brampton Islands? Go for it . Let us know when you are about. Big Kisses . Karen Jon Emily Jackson and Lucie
Quick message to say Happy Mothers Day to Helen, boy do you deserve a rest so take it easy and enjoy the day.
Lots of love
Janice Paul Holly and Hannah xxxx
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