Mimi's Wishing Well

Today our Christmas wish has been granted.

We saw the scans of Mom's brain before the radiation and after. The tumors that were once significant in size and number have either shrunk out of existence or are drastically reduced to pitiful little stumps that hopefully have lost their blood supply due to their radiated blood vessels. The scans of Mom's esophagus continue to show improvement in that the "thickening" that was caused by the cancer and the scar tissue continues to slim. At this time, the tests do not reveal any cancerous areas in her lungs, liver, or abdominal region in general.

Both Mom's radiologist and oncologist agree that we could not have hoped for better test results. Moreover, they said that her overall health is an encouraging sign and reason to remain hopeful. At this point, the doctors' orders are to continue eating well, exercising, and report any symptoms. Mom will not undergo any additional treatment at this time because there is nothing to actively treat. She has another set of tests scheduled for the end of March.

We should be aware, however, that the chance of recurrence is high. It is possible that the tumors that remain in her brain could start to grow again. Or, new disease could emerge, anywhere. We need to keep a close eye on it by paying careful attention to any symptoms and through regular tests. If or when the cancer rears its ugly head, we will have treatment options. Chemotherapy, which is normally not an option for brain tumors because of the brain blood barrier, may be effective in the future because the radiation has likely weakened this barrier. Radiation will remain a powerful tool, as well. Her radiologist said that if tumors start to grow again in her brain they will likely not be so widespread so the radiation therapy would be more targeted. While this discussion does not sound optimistic, to us it is extremely comforting to know that treatment will be available.

While most of my talk today revolves around the medical treatment that my mom has received, I truly believe that there is much more at play here. I have not figured out this spiritual journey that we are all on. But, I am getting closer everyday. One thing I am certain of is that it is not Mom's time to move on. Not now. So, we will continue loving each other and living our lives, being thankful for every moment we are together.