The results today were nothing showing, nothing new...with a bit of a bonus. We asked Dr. Amin about that one, stable, 6mm tumor that hasn't been changing - we assumed it was just stubborn. Dr. Amin said that he could not say it was or wasn't melanoma without a biopsy AND that he wasn't willing to open Bobby's chest to find out. So, we will assume that since it hasn't grown, it hasn't shrunk, and it didn't disappear or change like the other melanoma tumors that it is probably not melanoma. It could be a granuloma or scar tissue. Neither are related to melanoma or are concerning. This news is better than I can put into words. Having assumed that there was one tumor still "in there" was like having one rotten potato in the basket. By taking that one tumor (NT4) out of the equation, the CT scan shows NO CANCER and the doctor said it would be read as negative.
As the news spread quickly, Bobby didn't seem as ready to celebrate. The roller coaster ride doesn't always leave you feeling thrilled. It isn't so easy to believe what you are hearing when the statistics for melanoma have been poor. This truly is unbelievable and is as good as it will ever get.
Bobby will continue to get scans every 12 weeks. As that time gets closer, we will again hold our breath. Melanoma never burns its bridges. We are able to keep the gates closed but can never be guaranteed that it will be gone forever. Melanoma is an ugly beast and can show up anytime-any time....till death do us part. If it is only just today, then, today he is cancer-free! We'll never hear better news than this.
Bobby says, "You are never CURED from melanoma, it is just under control."
In this path we are making, Bobby is a pioneer. A great friend who has melanoma says that Bobby is a beacon for others to look toward. This is something that every person suffering from melanoma needs.
Last but not least, we want to say, "Thank you!" to all of our friends, family, and coworkers who have helped us so much. We need you (and a healthy dose of Ipi) to get us through. Goodnight, Bobby & Donna
We would also like to say THANK YOU to our kids. Lindsey, Julie, Dan: We couldn't do this without you being as helpful and mature as you are. We appreciate it. (And the grandparents for stepping in while we are gone). Love you all.
1 comment:
It was great to read the news on the phone, but reading it here sort of puts it in a new light. It so great to hear that truly great things are happening to such dear friends. Cherish and celebrate the victory.
Post a Comment