Today was yet another grueling day of tests for Troy. He had lab work, PET/CT Scan, regular CT Scan then an appointment with Dr. Jac (the oncologist). He had to fast until after 3:00 for the second day in a row. He was really put through the wringer and he's not feeling so great this evening.
The tests results were all good news, further confirmation that the tumor has shrunk. In PET Scan speak: "Abnormal uptake by the lower esophagus, noted on the previous study, is markedly improved on today's study, etc, etc". Dr. Jac was very pleased with the results of the treatment.
Just two minor set backs - the doctor wants Troy to have an MRI to take a look at his liver. There is a spot on it that he wants to take a closer look at. He did say that he did not expect it to be cancer because it didn't show up on the PET Scan (only on the CT Scan), where apparently it would have shown up if cancer cells were involved - see previous paragraph regarding "abnormal uptake". Anyway, Dr. Jack was very confident that it would not be anything to worry about, just him being thorough and cautious.
The other set back - Troy's right arm and right leg are still very swollen and the arm is so tender to the touch that he is in quite a bit of pain (even though he's trying to be tough about it all). We figured it was just a side effect of the chemo, but Dr. Jac wants ultrasounds of both his arm and his leg to rule out blood clots.
I tell you, those doctors order tests like we order lunch off the menu! Troy has been poked and prodded enough in the last two days (not to mention the last few months) to last a lifetime. Unfortunately, we realize that there's plenty more on the doctor's lunch menu - if you catch my drift.
The next round of tests haven't been scheduled yet, but they will probably be done this week, if not tomorrow. We have an appointment with Dr. Ramchandani (the surgeon) tomorrow, so we are trying to brace ourselves for receiving more information regarding the surgery and possibly even when it will happen. We're both anxious about that. We are hoping to take a few days off next week and spend them on the boat. Our plan is to have a little bit of fun and relaxation before the surgery.
More tomorrow . . . Tonight I am remembering Jesus' promise:
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
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