February 24, 2010 - RESULTS

First and foremost, we must thank those of you who have and continue to pray for Dee and for our family.  Without those prayers and your constant show of love and  support, going through this experience would be so much more difficult.  However, it has been extremely difficult, especially in the last few days while waiting for crucial test results, to field calls from those that indicate that they have heard the most dire and dreadful news from others regarding our Mother.  This is distressing and exhausting as we have worked very diligently to keep everyone current.   The reason that this blog was created was to share the most  accurate information possible so that everyone would know exactly what was happening at the same time.  We have asked everyone to share the blog information with those you know who do not have computers. And, although the last couple of posts have been further apart, there just wasn't a significant change in her condition or treatment to warrant daily or weekly updates.   Once again, we would encourage everyone to share the blog with those friends or family members that do not have access to it, so that the news shared is accurate and we do not receive calls that cause further distress to our family.  It only makes our emotional load that much heavier.  Thank you for understanding and hope that we cause no offense.  We do realize that the calls are made out of love and concern and that is most appreciated.
Secondly, the current situation is as follows:
With respect to the test results ~ the MRI indicated that the Chemo treatments (5 currently) through the Omaya Resevoir have indicated success.  The typical treatment course is about 15 treatments.  After only 5 Dee's lymphoma has not showed any sign of progression, which is good.  The Oncologist believes that the results were encouraging and after the remaining course of treatment will indeed be equally as successful as her spinal fluid still does not indicate the presence of lymphoma.  She will have a lumbar puncture in her back to check that fluid as well, but the Dr. seemed fairly certain that the fluid from that region would be clear as well.  The Dr. ruled out any growth of the old or any new lymphoma, which confirms his conclusion that Dee's confusion and delusions are caused by the drugs that are being administered in her head.  Further, her intolerance and sensitivity to almost any medication has excerbated this condition.
The PET scan of her body indicated that the lymphoma that was previously present in various lymph nodes throughout her body have been successfully treated after 4 treatments.  They are virtually non-existent.   The standard course of treatment is 6 to 8 treatments for RCHOP Chemotherapy.  The lymphoma present in her spine is still illuminating in 4 vertebra, which may indicate a progression of the lymphoma in her spine.  So, further testing (a Biopsy on some of the vertebra) will be needed to either confirm or deny the presence of lymphoma there.  There are several additional conditions which may also be causing the illumination on the vertebra, such as scar tissue for instance.
We believe that overall the test results were encouraging and pray that the next series of tests will also hold the same positive findings.  This is what we are concentrating our prayers on and ask that you will do the same.
With respect to the family condition ~   As we are sure you are aware, a grave illness is one the most harrowing situations a family can encounter.  We are no different ~ we run the gamut ~ emotional, mental, and physical stress is constantly present.  Bernie has remained constant and caring of his wife, but the stress has taken quite a toll, even with the help he has received from other family members.  Please pray that he can continue to remain strong and hopeful, as we follow the difficult path that this journey takes us on.  His emotional well being and strength directly impact the success of Dee's recovery.
Dee's physical and mental condition from all outward appearances would probably alarm most of you.  Having intimately traveled this journey with her ~ it is apparent to us that she is going through exactly what all of the doctors told us to expect.  She can survive, but the path to get there will be extremely rough.  Dee is an exceptionally strong woman ~ as much as she's been through she is actually doing better than anyone gives her credit for.  She has made it this far without further hospitalization, she eats well and is up and walking around.  The fact that she could do any of these things is proof of that ~ the fact that she is doing them all gives us tremendous hope in her ability to be victorious.
Thank you again for everything ~ the blessings you have bestowed on our family are so very much appreciated.