Wednesday, March 30, 2011

A "minor setback"

That's what the doctor called it.

I was supposed to be admitted into the hospital on Tuesday for another round of chemo, but my doc cancelled it and wanted me to come in with my husband for a consultation. This scared me because they told me to bring my hubby. I feared that meant they had bad news. So, we went in this morning and the doc was very positive. He said my tumor has indeed grown a bit, and that means we'll have to go after it with radiation. There was talk of radiation in the beginning of the treatment but it was never certain if I'd need it. He said the cancer cells are "smart," and if they see they're being attacked through the blood (the chemo goes through an IV straight into the blood), the cells can cut themselves off from the blood (the chemo) and feed off of the surrounding tissue. It hasn't broken through the membrane surrounding my brain, so that's good! This also means I have no excuses if I act stupid! Shucks! 

Anyway, so because the tumor has cut itself off from the chemo, they'll have to treat it with radiation, which will be kind of like a "cyber knife." I got a bone marrow biopsy done today (ouch!), and they'll find out the results the beginning of next week as to whether or not the cancer is still in the blood/bone marrow. The doc feels positive it isn't and that's why he cancelled this last round of chemo. IF I do still have cancer in my bone marrow, then I'll need another round of chemo. As for the radiation, I'll start that in the next few days, or next week. They're supposed to call. I'll have to go in everyday for radiation for anywhere between 5 and 20 days. 

Pray the radiation completely wipes out the cancer in just a few days and that my bone marrow is free of cancer. If these things happen, I'll be able to go in for my transplant that much sooner. If things are delayed, then my transplant will take place much later.

So, there ya have it! 

27 comments:

  1. Praying, Sandy!

    My friend Sue had the cyber knife treatment done. I hope yours goes successfully.

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  2. Praying here, and will be until you tell us they can't find a trace of it anywhere. Hang in there (I'll bet you're dog-tired of that phrase by now!).

    Hugs.

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  3. Will definatly be praying for you! Hang in there and keep shining HIS light to this dark world. Love you!

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  4. Praying, Sandi. My grandmother had radiation only for breast cancer, and she had no side effects at all except for a sunburn type rash.

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  5. Praying this does the job! Optimist-me sees much hope in this news. We're beside you all the way, Sandi! (Digitally speaking.)

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  6. Love you and praying for you.
    GinniB

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  7. It was so great seeing you at the Women's Renewal. I am sorry that you have had a set back. My prayer is that you are cancer free soon!
    I love you sister!

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  8. Praying for you, Sandi. All wishes and hopes that this will soon be behind you!
    Anne

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  9. I love you so much and am praying for FULL health! AMEN and AMEN! Love you so much sister!
    <3 Cari

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  10. Lots of prayers Sandi and so glad we know what specifically to pray for. big hug and love to Karsten and Celia!

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  11. Praying, Sandi. I feel so much hope inside for you and what you're going through. I can't explain it, but I have a lot of hope, friend. (((hugs)))

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  12. Adding my prayers to those already bombarding heaven on your behalf. This "minor setback" isn't a surprise to God and He's still holding you in the palm of His hand.

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  13. Praying for you dear Sandi! Please continue to keep us updated.

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  14. Praying! And our church is praying also each week! Praying for the cancer to be dumb so it won't know what hit it! lol Blessings!

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  15. You are a trooper. I know this is rough, but you are shining. I'm praying for strength, courage, and wisdom. Sandy, you rock!

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  16. Hi Sandi,

    With all this medical knowledge maybe you could become a nurse. Just teasing. I pray for you each and every day. You are a real trooper. I know this will turn out for the good. Love Mary Hjerleid

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  17. Take heart Sandi, we're holding you up in prayer. I'm so glad the doctor feels positive. Hang on to that.

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  18. Love you, Sandi -- you are such an encouragement to many -- keep your eyes on the Lord as always and take a day at a time.

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  19. Sandi
    We love you and will be praying for you.

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  20. I wish I could be there with you...praying for you and your family. Love you cousin!

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  21. Will definitely pray for full healing, Sandi.
    Hang in there--love you, girl. :)

    Linore

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  22. Praying that tumor gets zapped by the power of Jesus! And radiation, too. :-) Love you girl! So glad you're staying positive. HUGS

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  24. Oh, Sandi. I get into slumps for no good reason, and you have plenty of reason! Go easy on yourself, girlfriend. And I'm praying you won't lean upon your understanding (reason), but upon Him who will walk with you through this coming valley. Please remind us when that week of full body radiation comes so we can keep you covered in prayer. You are precious, girl.
    Hugs,
    Linore

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WHEN THE WORLD SAYS YOU CAN'T, FAITH SAYS YOU CAN!