We finally had a decent drive to U of M today. We met with Dr. Teknos and went over Tom's latest scans. At this time it appears that they have successfully removed all the cancer. This of course is great news! However, with this type of cancer there is a fear of the cancer returning somewhere else. So what is our next step?
Tom will be referred to an Oncologist, hopefully in Grand Rapids, where they will discuss the use of a preventative new drug that attacks and shrinks tumors with this type of cancer.
Tom will return to the U of M in 6 months to repeat the Octreotide scan. He will need to have these scans every 6 months eventually moving towards one a year.
We also discussed with Dr. Teknos Tom's difficulty maintaining an airway at night; breathing, swallowing, and swelling. They scoped Tom's throat and looked at his vocal cords. The Dr. even let me look at them (it was cool). His difficulty with breathing and swallowing are due to swelling around his vocal cords which is still the effects of the surgery. Adding to this, Tom now has acid reflux which is enflaming the tissue around the vocal cords. The doctor has prescribed a steroid pack and a new prescription to counter the acid reflux, yeah more drugs for Tom to try to remember to take. As Tom continues to heal the edema (fluids) will be decreased as the new blood vessels grow. Tom will return to U of M to meet with Dr. Teknos on July 15 to evaluate the swelling. Of course Tom could not leave the hospital without donating his blood again. They will check and probably readjust his Thyroid medicine. I believe they are also checking his calcitonin level.
Tom continues in his physical therapy 3 days a week and is making good progress with movements in his shoulders, neck, and arms.
We have been battling this cancer for two years and we are finally on the offensive. We couldn't have done this without of the support of so many. Thank you all for your love, prayers, and encouragement. All the way home my mind was singing "Thank You Lord!" We still have a long road ahead of us, but at least for tonight I think that I will be able to sleep.
Upcoming dates:
July 15, U of M at 10:45
Consult with Oncologist (TBA)
September (TBA) 2008, U of M for 3 days, Octreotide scans
1 comment:
And what a song to sing Val! Thanks so much for posting for us. I am soooo happy about my brother's report..being very scared and at the same time praying to GOD that he would let us have Tommy stay here with us for much longer. Maybe your 'prayer warriors' can continue to pray EVERY Monday around 8p.m. I know that we will!
'I will give you thanks, for you answered me;you have become my salvation.' Psalm 118:21
Sweet dreams!
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