Yesterday we met with Dr. Fabian to get the results of my tests from last week. Great news... the PET Scan showed no metabolic activity, which means the cells are not growing or active at this time. The CT scan still shows the nodules. They are the same size and number as the scans in March.
We are hoping since they have not changed in size and are not showing as active on the PET scan that they are just residual dead cells left. But, Dr. Fabian cannot prove this without another lung biopsy. Since the spots are so small and the lung biopsy is a pretty major surgery we opted to not do another one at this time.
Instead I will discontinue my current treatments and switch to a new maintenance drug called Tykerb. Good news... it is in pill form!! So, for the immediate future no more intravenous injections. This drug is recently FDA approved and very expensive. So, we have to go through preauthorization with my insurance company. More good news... for three weeks I am drug free! Then, in three weeks I'll start the Tykerb.
The doctor is being very cautious and will have me do a CT scan every 4 weeks. I'll continue this for some time until we are certain the cells are not active. We are also hoping that this new drug, Tykerb, will make the nodules disappear. If not, we may opt for a biopsy in the future so that we know for sure.
So, all in all, good news!! Thanks, as always, for the thoughts and prayers!! We are thankful for each of you!
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The Lewis Family
Photo courtesy of www.imagesbyyo.blogspot.com
2 comments:
HiDeb!!! I finally had a moment to read your blog. I love it!! Leave it to you (smile) to pick up on and implement such a great concept.
I am so thrilled for you with the good news. I am constantly amazed by you and your family. The glass is always, well, FULL!! it's never half empty. Beautiful way to look at life! Speaking of beautiful, you're stunning...always have been...the picture of you at the concert is so great! And, I have to add, the boys...can not believe how big they are getting. What did Ferris Buehler say..."life moves pretty fast. if you don't slow down and look around, you might miss it".
Well, just want to tell you how amazing you are. My friends and I constantly keep you in our prayers! Michelle
Debra!!!
That is such FANTASTIC news for you and your family!!!!!
We will continue to pray for you guys.....
Take care and stay in touch!!!!
Annette :-)
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