We just got home from the hospital were Robert got his second round of Ritukan to treat the lymphoma. It went well and he was able to maintain a scheduled increase of the medication over time without any reaction. The IV drip took about three hours and we were away from home for only five hours total. This was much better then last weeks session which lasted about 6 1/2 hours. Having to go the the chemo treatment area of the hospital adds a new dynamic to the medical experience.
We met with the neuro-oncologist on Monday and the conversation was extensive and involved. So much was discussed and it is probably not necessary to provide every detail, but this is the information and proposed course of treatment. The MRI showed some improvement in the size of the brain tumors and this is remarkable since he has only received one dose of avastin and it is a drug that is primarily given to reduce inflammation - not shrink tumor. He bad news is that they have found a brain bleed. They think that is was caused from the brain biopsy and not the avastin. This is important because avastin can cause hemorrhaging even if not common. We will have a CAT scan next week to determine if it is growing and then determine if we can proceed with the avastin. Please pray for the 'go ahead' to get the avastin - it is important when receiving radiation. Hopefully avastin will be given next week and the radiation and oral chemo will be administered the week behind that.
We continue to be thankful for the many, many people who give of themselves to give to us.
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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
3 comments:
Moments. Now you are living moment by moment. As you walk the stairs, take the elevator, park the car...you are bombarded with your new reality and we empower you to STAND STRONG...step by step you fight this and find that cure.
In the "chemo ward" as you put it must be a devastating experience...but know this...you are finding your way to healing. Others there are also searching for a peace of medical miracles. Hold on to those you meet in the halls...they will be your co-warriors. You are soldiers in this fight...keep your head up...we are so very proud of each and every moment you endure.
Continue to find something to laugh about with one another...don't let the hospital consume you with sickness...force force force yourself to go out and let the sun warm your toes in the grass...find the time to breathe in moments of silliness with whip cream and ice cream with the boys..yes now...you need that reality to keep you strong for the fight.
Lord God we pray for you to know His will....to find comfort carried by friends and family...to know His love and feel the hope of healing and grace in this storm of storms. You are so amazing...we are so proud of you. Moment by moment we are holding our breth for you while you concentrate on taking yours...keep the breathless moments many and peaceful times plenty in the midst of pain...know there is passion for life in Robert and he will show us how To live live live because of love, love, love.
God bless you and keep you!
XOOXOOXO
ANg, Chuck, Gabbi, Maddi McLean
Thanks for the update Tammy. Please let Robert know that we're all thinking of you and sending positive thoughts in your direction.
Tarisa and the gang at Praxis
I just heard the latest "news"...I am sending positive thoughts and prayers as you get through this latest test of courage...stay strong....and when you can't be strong please know people near and far are willing to take over and be strong for you
Julie
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