It is Tuesday and so much has happened since our last post. Suffice it to say Robert has been going through multiple test to rule out the possibility that the mass in his chest is another type of cancer. Blood work, ultra-sounds, biopsy, and PET Scan. Everything is being scheduled quickly and appointments are being shuffled back and forth to fit them all in. Our oncologist recognizes the emotional distress of not knowing and works diligently to get us seen.
We will meet with here tomorrow to discuss the newest test results -if available- and to discuss the Brain Tumor Boards recommendations related to the latest brain scans.
Robert is exhausted and yet he still holds a sense of humor with the doctors and nurses. We will wait for the good results that must come. If this is a test - then we will pass. We will do what we need to do to be informed and take whatever action we need to take to be well.
The positive thoughts being shared with us - keep us well.
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My Condition - Glioblastoma Multiforme (or GBM)
I was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). This condition has four different grades (I - IV). My tumor is a grade IV GBM. This is the most aggressive GBM tumor. I have included a little section of The Essential Guide to BRAIN TUMORS below to describe the condition more completely.
Astrocytoma
An astrocytoma develops from star-shaped glial cells (astrocytes) that support nerve cells. These tumors can be located anywhere in the brain, but the most common location is in the frontal lobe. Astrocytomas are the most common primary CNS tumor.
The physician, usually the neurosurgeon or neurooncologist, will discuss the type and location of an astrocytoma. The pathologist will assign it a grade. Astrocytomas are generally classified as low or high grade. Low-grade astrocytomas (grades I and II) are slow growing. High-grade astrocytomas (grades III and IV) grow more quickly. The main tumor type is listed for each grade. There are additional tumor types in each of these grades.
The WHO classification divides astrocytomas into four grades:
- Grade I Pilocytic Astrocytoma
- Grade II Low-Grade Astrocytoma
- Grade III Anaplastic Astrocytoma
- Grade IV Glioblastoma Multiforme (or GBM)
Characteristics
The characteristics of an astrocytoma vary depending on the tumor’s grade and location. Most people are functioning normally when diagnosed with a low-grade astrocytoma. Symptoms tend to be subtle and may take one to two years to diagnose. This is because the brain can often adapt to a slow-growing tumor for a period of time. Highgrade tumors may present with changes that are sudden and dramatic.
Symptoms
- Headaches
- Seizures or convulsions
- Difficulty thinking or speaking
- Behavioral or cognitive changes (related to thinking, reasoning, and memory)
- Weakness or paralysis in one part or one side of the body
- Loss of balance
- Vision changes
- Nausea or vomiting
5 comments:
Hello, I am Amie and Christine's cousin. We met a long time ago. I have been following your blogs for a while and just wanted to say (as many have) that your family is in our thoughts and prayers daily.As a wife and mother I am inspired by your courage and strength. Warm thoughts from Florida are with you today and everyday. God Bless
The Pierson Family
I am inspired by your strength everyday Tammy. Hang in there and I am praying for all of you. Stay positive and remember how many people love you.
Ceil and Jay
Just wanted to let you know we are praying for you every day. I would love more information about the walk you are doing in May, as well as a link to your site, assuming you have a way for us to donation online?
Marcee
Ok...this is a reality ride no wants you on. Can't you guys get a break? Ok...Lord...let them off this roller coaster right? As I struggle to get on my knees...so many thoughts and prayers come forth!
I am in awe of your strength and courage and as you say you are only doing what you can to survive. But it is your grace in survival mode...it is your steadfast resolve, consternation and calm presence that you take this ride of your life...with passion for living that precious life and give us all a glimpse of true courage...faith in a family and friendship and realization of courage!
Know this..you will have many more tests and doctors and procedures...but if you continue to breathe...calmly and tell yourself...one foot in front of the other...minute by minute to live in that moment...given those choices and time for your body to heal...the little sights and sounds in life that bring you so much joy...can also give you that same peace and passion for life to turn your head up versus letting all thoughts go down.
Keep strong RObert and Tammy...these are just words..yes..but Ohhh how I pray that you find the moments of gratification of simple luxuries...hearing waterfalls over rocks...the pur of kitten...songs of little Spring Birds...the giggles of your boys...the vision of your wife smile and the happiness in Robert...laughing and peaceful thoughts away from this terrifying ride.
Please know...yes..prayers, thougths are with you...more than than...hopes of your conviction to find a calm...stay there in the midst of the storm and wake to a bright sunshine of healing and happyness!
Your rainbow is waiting...
Now....just take the storm...get out of the rain with these procedures and appointments and find that place to stay warm and dry in the comfort of friends and family and faith that will carry you through the storm.
XOOX Ang, Chuck, Gabbi, McLean
Tammy and Robert - I can't even find words to express what I feel in my heart for you. I continue to pray for you daily and you are ALWAYS in my thoughts. God bless you and help you to keep up the courage and strength that you have! You are both incredible!
Sharon
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