Mom's CT results - not great

[Leela]

Well my mom had 3 brachytherapy treatments for obstruction in her upper and lower lobes in the right lung, the last being 3 weeks ago. Her radiation onc. was extremely pleased with the results - saying there were places that looked like they had never been diseased at all, but still some obstruction in the upper lobe that may still improve. She had a CT scan last week and the results are - as her chemo onc. said - unexpected. It shows worsening of the disease. There is decreased volume in the right upper lung and an increase of lymph nodes in the middle of the chest. The is also a new mass in the liver - almost definitely a spread of the lung cancer. He did say that the worsening of the lung may be post obstruction from the radiation and said that hopefully what he's seeing on the CT is all wrong. He will be meeting with her radiation onc. tomorrow for his input. She will be having a previously scheduled bronchosopy next week to see if they felt there was a need for another brachytherapy tx. She will need chemo either way - probably a different kind and only if she wants to. He said he will need to take some quiet time and really think of what to do next as her last kind of chemo (Alimta) did hold back the progression. I am very concerned about the spread to the liver. She has not had chemo since mid-March while they were doing testing and the radiation treatments.

My mom almost always puts on a brave face. She said we have to expect this and that this is not ever going away. She said we know what will happen eventually and that this is just another step. I know she is right and bless her heart, but I'm having a hard time holding it together at the moment. I'm not giving up all hope yet. If you can spare a prayer we'd appreciate it.

Lisa

[Flyman35]

Lisa, I am so sorry to read this news. Many prayers and positive thoughts coming your way.

Denise

[shineladysue]

Lisa,

I just want you to know that I will keep you and your mom in my prayers. I hope between the two oncs that they are able to come up with a plan to help your mom.

Hugs,

Sue

[Patti B]

((((Lisa)))))

I am so sorry that your moms results weren't what everyone wanted. It sounds like she is such a trooper - and that determination will keep her going for a long while!!

I am saying lots of prayers for her!!!

Hugs - Patti

[tnmynatt]

Praying!

[Wendy]

Lisa,

A great big cyber hug to you tonight. I am so sorry to hear about the new development with your mom. I hope that another treatment plan will stomp out the cancer for good.

Wendy

[SandraL]

Lots of prayers and hope Lisa. Tell your mom not to give up...she sounds like a trooper. take good care

Sandra

[CaroleHammett]

Lisa: ...My mom almost always puts on a brave face. She said we have to expect this and that this is not ever going away. She said we know what will happen eventually and that this is just another step. I know she is right and bless her heart, but I'm having a hard time holding it together at the moment..."

Lisa:

I've learned from my own experience as a patient that this horrid disease is far harder on you famly members than we patients. Be glad that your mother is facing it straight on; her attitude is far preferable to denial as in the latter case, she would not be able to appreciate each extra day with which she is gifted.

Remember also that she has not given up hope any more than you have. She is just being realistic about the "long run."

Carole

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.--the late, great George Carlin

[Maryanne]

Your both in my prayers. You're right never give up. We have seen miracles happen on here. Keep that positive attitude going.

Maryanne

[Leela]

Thanks all. I have taken one step back towards being more positive today. Although mom's not feeling so hot today either, trying to wait until we find out more next week. Thanks again everyone - this is always the best place to come for hope and perspective.

Hugs to all,

Lisa