TAnn

Saw the doc yesterday and got my latest scan results. There is "change" from the previous scan. They have noted what my doc referred to as "fluff" around my original primary tumor. It is not clear what this "fluff" represents at this time, but said it could be what is called Lymphangitic Spread. I asked a question about this on Ask the Experts and got a very good description of what it is. Since they are unsure of whether this is possible spread or scar tissue or what, I am staying on Tarceva for another 6 weeks and will then will re-scan both chest and brain. Slight increase in pleural fluid and very slight increase in nodules in other lung, but they are still very very small. That's the update for now. TAnn

It makes sense that if your mom is unable to tolerate the side effects of the current chemo due to low counts, then it is not a benefit to her. (Especially isn't a benefit if she can't get the treatment) I'm not sure how many treatments she's already had, but they usually give a short "break" before starting another regimine. I was on Taxol/Carbo and could not complete the 6 course regimine and then went to Taxotere and also could only get 5 of 6 treatments due to the low counts. It's not uncommon. I know that you are concerned, but it sounds like the doc's are working in her best interest. TAnn

Cheers to Charlie D. Congratulations on 1 year. On Sunday it will be my 2 year anniversary from Diagnosis. I sure wouldn't mind a few toasts to that! Never thought I'd be here this long! (You all know how that feels!!) TAnn

Cindi, Why oh why do we have to deal with so many of life's issues and lung cancer at the same time? I think one begets the other. I am sending my prayers that this move will be a fresh new start for you. I wish you could get some help. Packing and moving and all that goes with it is so much to handle, especially for one person. God will give you the strength you need to get through this, both physical and mental, and when you reach the other side, you will see how strong you really are. Hang in there...... And I'm so glad you are feeling better! TAnn

Thank you Pattie for letting us know about Frank. I am sending my prayers for Frank to be home by the weekend! Stay strong Frank! TAnn

Darn, I missed it. I've been looking all day for news on Peter Jennings. Any other info would be appreciated. TAnn

No more chemo, no more steroids, but plenty of fishin!!!!! Congratulations on a great report. Enjoy your break. TAnn

Peggy, This is wonderful news. So glad hubby is feeling better and is not in that horrible pain. I get my latest scan results tomorrow, I've been on Tarceva for 3 full months now. My first scan was "same, stable". I've noticed an increase in my pain which is located in my back just under my shoulder blade and that has me a little worried. I wonder why they don't have something like Tarceva for SCLC. They need to get to work on that ASAP! Thanks for the great update Peggy. TAnn

Kim, My mother-in-law is going through the exact same thing right now. They saw something "suspicious" on her mammogram and called her back for another mammogram and a sonogram. Last Friday she had a consult w/the doc and he wants to set up a biopsy (needle biopsy). So for now she is waiting on that appointment. Sounds like they are in the same boat... I think it is the ONLY thing to do when a lump is found. You must make sure it isn't cancer and do all the appropriate testing. Praying for both of our moms.... TAnn

Joanie, You have something to celebrate! 3 years is a milestone in any cancer, but for SCLC it is truly a miracle. Amen for the doctors! Have a wonderful day! TAnn

Congratulations Grandma! This is such sweet and wonderful news. We could use more of this around here. Thank you for sharing your wonderful news. TAnn

Oh Frank, just when you think things are going so smoothly........there is another bump in the road. I know you will get through this and come back strong, your sense of humor will serve you well. I am so sorry you have to go through this again. I'll be praying for your brain scan to come back Clean!!! TAnn

Bill, As this is good news for your wife, I kinda hope that there is no corrulation between WHERE the bumps are, just as long as there are bumps. My face has been spared for the most part, however I do have some very painful bumps INSIDE my nose! Thanks for the info! TAnn

David, I am so sorry to hear of your latest news. It isn't good news, but know that I am praying for you and your family. You are strong and a fighter, but in order to stay strong you must take care of yourself first. Get lots of rest and try to stay in the "game". I know the chemo must be getting to you too. You shouldn't have to go through this, we are here for you. TAnn

Peggy, You have always been there for me to pick me back up when I got bad news. You are such a great support to all of us, I hope we can return the favor ten-fold. Sending prayers for your husband that the Tarceva works. I was also on Iressa and now Tarceva. I've been on it (150mg) now for 3 full months and would say I've tolerated it pretty well. I think just accepting that I am going to have the rash no matter what helps me cope. It's not that bad, worse than Iressa, but tolerable. Take care of yourself as well as your hubby. Check in when you can. Teri

Add my good thoughts in there too. TAnn

Lori, Prayers sent for your mom. Even though it is very hard at times, keep up the faith and never give up hope. This is just another bump in the road. TAnn

Poggie, It sounds like your mother in law has the right attitude. Brain mets are a serious complication, but many of us here have had success with the wbr and still going strong! Fatigue was my main complaint, hair loss and loss of appetite after I was off the steroids. All have gotten better, but it takes a few months. TAnn

Fay, Enjoy the extra time to enjoy the spring! Forget about it for a few weeks and then get mentally prepared at the end of april. Sorry it has to be delayed, I know you just want to feel better and stronger at this point. It's good that your doctor is cautious. TAnn

This is very interesting. I was on a trial with ZD-6474. Unfortunately it was a double blind trial meaning that neither I or my docs knew if I was getting the drug or a placebo. We will never know for sure, but due to the fact that I had progression, I probably got the placebo. I'll be looking for the results of this trial in May. Thanks Bill! TAnn

Melanie, Sounds like you've had a rough time lately. So glad you are feeling a little better. You are so strong, a real fighter. Brain radiation can really do a number on you. I definately have my "lost in space" moments too. Take care, TAnn

Sending best wishes for John's mom. This is very difficult news to digest, especially long distance. It's good she has someone to help her out in Chicago. TAnn

Bill, It sounds like your wife and I are getting the exact same effects from the Tarceva. I also get a "sour" stomach. My doc put me on Prevacid. I take it in the morning and it helps for the rest of the day. Ask your wife's docs about this. I think it is pretty commom side effect. TAnn

Karen, Isn't it great to know that there is still some humanity in the world. That was a very kind and compassionate officer and it's a wonderful thing you are doing to send his boss a nice letter. It reminds me of last year when my son turned 18 and had to go get his new driver's license. In Houston, (and probably everywhere) you can plan on being at the dmv at least 3-4 hours. I was on chemo at the time, bald, weak and should not have been in crowds, but it had to be done. One of the nicest officers put us right through to the front of the line when she saw me. We were in and out in 15 minutes. Nice, nice, nice. TAnn

Hey Bo, Thanks for the encouragement. I'm 6 MONTHS from my last treatment, which was wbr, and just this past weekend I've seen some growth. But as all things go with this disease, "it ain't pretty"! I have a "patch" of hair growing in on the back of my bald head and it is really black. (I'm a sandy blonde normally) I don't mind the color, just give me more than a "patch"!!!!! Oh well, I'm not complaining, just slightly amused TAnn