Current Standing

Hi , here is an update now that the op results have come through and the drain from the lung op have been removed. Despite earlier believing that the lungs were clear it now appears not and that in actual fact the cancer has spread even further and is more widespread in the lungs than was earlier believed. In actual fact my diagnosis is now that of adenoma Lung Cancer and no longer primary unknown. Tests from swabs taken inside the lung show the bad guys but good news is that that which was drained from outside the lung is clean. So the first six cycles of chemo although they slowed the cancer and appeared to be working did not in actual fact work and the shit has manifested itself in the lungs which will explain the shortness of breath and tired sensations being experienced.

But good news is that it has not spread to any other places or organs and there is light at the end of the tunnel. This comes in the form of a clinical study or trial which I have just qualified for. This entails the course of another chemo which does not have any of the bad side effects. The treatments I had was first line or preferred in the treatment of what I have. This other treatment called ALIMTA is on the market and may be a future firstline of defense against lung cancer but due to costs many medical aids refuse to endorse and pay for it. My trial will be for the use of this together with a biological drug which may or may not be administered. I say this as I will take it not knowing if it is the real thing or a placebo ! At the end of the day though I get to get the new chemo which I believe is the best way forward in terms of combating this thing. The other drug is called ZACTIMA. So today wed 30 Jan I went for all the scans in order to see where we are before proceeding with the study. Nice thing is that due to it being a study regular and more frequent scans and checks are done so the feedback is more thorough so we should get an early indicator of where this thing is going.

All in all it is a very stressfull, daunting and intimidating time. A walk up some stairs now leaves me absolutely poked. Both Wilmien and I were shattered by the news as I was hoping to be hopping and skipping coming out after the lung op. As Winston said when going through hell just keep going. We are keeping our chins up and carrying on as best we can. It is difficult but we forge forward. I have faith in all around me, My Maker and the doctors that we are on the right road. Keep those thoughts and prayers coming and next time I will try pop a pic up.

Love and best wishes to you all !

Some good some bad news. The entry with just good news is yet to be posted.