Tom started his Avastin infusions on our anniversary on 9/9. He felt better for a few days and then his fatigue returned. He had his next infusion two weeks later and it seemed to make a huge difference, he started acting more like himself and had so much more energy. He also did a reduced dose of chemo for his last dose which helped a lot too. It’s been hard to feel hopeful after things continuing to get worse, but hope is a hard thing to crush entirely and we went into Monday’s scan feeling like maybe this one would be a little better-or at least maybe not worse. He also hasn’t had any more seizures. We saw the images first and were shocked to see how much the swelling has gone down and also how the ventricle (bright white spot on the right was being pushed) was no longer being pushed on as much and looks similar to his left ventricle now. To understand the images, the ones on the left are from Monday and the ones on the right are from late August. Also MRI images are reversed so just know Tom’s tumor and swelling is on his right side. The report came in during his third Avastin treatment on Tuesday and also confirmed that everything had improved. Today we met with Tom’s oncologist who again affirmed the results! He said even the PET scan was better as well. The best part is that Tom will get to start resuming more activity. He’s been coming to some of my classes and doing yoga each week but now we can start some short rides on the bike outside again and start some light strength training. We are looking forward to our inaugural ride to our favorite breakfast spot this weekend. We will check him again in about a month or so depending on when we can get the scan and he will do 3 more Avastin doses. He has two more doses of chemo left and hoping to take a break or discontinue altogether. It definitely feels like there is some light at the end of the tunnel where previously there has been none.
As for me, I am still treating. A lot of people assumed I am done with treatment because I finished radiation but I will be starting my anti-hormone treatment soon and will be taking it for 5 years. And I still have a marathon of doctor appointments to keep us busy when we are not at appointments for Tom. We did get one big shock when we looked at our calendar for next week and realized no MD appointments for either of us, a real treat!
We also just want to thank everyone for all their continued support. To say this has been hard and things have been dark is an understatement but we have never been alone. I know a lot of people reached out and have showed even more love and support after our last post. We have had friends driving Tom and bringing us food which is such a kindness. And cards and sweet gifts. I especially have gotten very overwhelmed these past few months and appreciate all that people have done to take things off my plate. We both have gotten into counseling and I hope that will help us as we continue on the path ahead.
