Hello to All,
Dr. Steinert energetically walked into our room Friday morning and announced, "The cancer is still stable!" After a hug and a greeting for each of us, she explained the situation further.
For each of the last several cycles, the radiologist that reviewed Ann's scans concluded that the cancer had progressed (grown) slightly. However, each time Dr. Steinert informed us that she wasn't concerned because the growth was very minimal. She also wasn't sure that she agreed with the conclusion of the radiologist.
This time Dr. Steinert presented Ann's case to a group of oncologists at some sort of symposium in order to confirm her interpretation of the scans. They unanimously agreed that there was no progression of the cancer after all. The slight "growth" in the tumors was actually because the tumors had died. A dead tumor darkens in color and therefore is more visible on the scans. Apparently, there is also some sort of scar tissue that develops around the tumor that also causes it to appear slightly larger.
Dr. Steinert also confirmed that Ann's liver "couldn't be functioning more normally."
What Does this Mean?
First and most importantly, it means that this second chemo regimen has proven to be a seaworthy lifeboat. It is effectively keeping the cancer from engulfing Ann's liver. The significance is that there is not an "imminent disaster" looming before us.
Second, it means that it is safe to tweak the regimen. Ann has been receiving one type of chemo on Day 1 and two types on Day 8. Dr. Steinert recommended eliminating the second chemo on Day 8 for two next cycles to see what happens. If the cancer remains stable, then she will continue with this new lighter regimen. She also may transition to a 28-day cycle rather than the current 21-day. Her goal is to give Ann as little chemo as possible, yet continue to keep the cancer from growing. The significance is that a reduction in chemo should lead to a reduction in side effects and a more "normal" life.
Third, it means this lifeboat should float for an extended period of time. Our doctor previously mentioned a patient who had completed 57 rounds. Ann starts Round 7 of this regimen tomorrow morning. The significance of this cannot be overstated. According to at least one website, Ann has already more than doubled her life expectancy after these fourteen months. God has graciously answered our prayers and extended Ann's life. I firmly believe that Ann would be in heaven now if not for our family and friends who have fervently pleaded with our Father for Ann's life.
What Does this Not Mean?
Ann is not out of the sea. Her new lifeboat is not designed to take her to shore. Medically speaking, nothing can. The significance is twofold. First, we are not trusting in our excellent doctor, the chemo regimen, or in Ann's fortitude. God is our only hope. Second, the need for prayer remains unchanged.
Prayer Requests:
- Thank God for providing a seaworthy lifeboat and for graciously granting Ann life these last fourteen months.
- That our family's relationships would be characterized by patience and forgiveness, rather than arguing and anger.
- That God would physically heal Ann so that she can teach our kids and grandkids that "there is nothing our God cannot do."
- That God would demonstrate the reality of the resurrection from the dead by delivering Ann from the grip of death.
2 Corinthians 1:8b-11
We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.
Thanks for praying and caring.
Love,
Howard & Ann
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