MRI & PET Scans

The visit with my Medical Oncologist went as expected - for me. She, on the other hand, found out some additional information. It seems that she was under the impression that I would have followup PET/MRI scans about 4-6 weeks after my last radiation treatment. My Radiation Oncologist determined that it would be more like 3-4 months after. As a good team, they communicated and it is closer to the 3 month range because of the fact that I was radiated alot (my word). When I say "alot", I mean that there are 4-5 locations about the head and neck that are the usual locations for cancer to manifest itself. I knew of one (the tumor was in one of my lymph nodes on the side of the neck), but due to the fact that I had an unknown primary, the radiation plan was to radiate all possible locations - yes that right, I was able to get radiated in all of the usual locations. Boy am I lucky.... First, I get a form of cancer that only 3-5% of people get, then of that select group, I have an unknown primary of which only 10% are such.  Then I get radiated in all possible areas. I need to buy a lottery ticket! So, with all that said, I am looking to schedule the MRI and PET scans for mid-october. Finally, I am now down to one day of hydration a week!

I continue to have issues with swallowing (received antibiotics for thrush), so eating is still a bit of a chore. Although everyday presents a renewed sense of strength, I am beginning to understand more the full extent of my physical journey - the least of which is the loss of 55lbs. I can sense that my mental and spiritual side have provided me with so much more than I ever thought possible, that it has taken up in spades for the loss of my physical strength. It is truly incredible to come to see, to understand and more importantly, to accept in my heart, the power of the spirit. My thanks to all who have provided that boost with prayers and thoughts as it all has had the intended effect. I can feel the power within and with the return of my physical strength, I can only add to that established spiritual strength and look to come out stronger (in body and faith) than ever. 

Oh, BTW, there also is another resident in the Negrete household:

MaryJane