Another visit to the oncologist … and continued good news.
When we met with Dr. Trumbly this afternoon, I was a bit apprehensive. Recently, when Patti and I had been feeding and watering the horses on the ranch here, it was exhausting and I did not know how this exhaustion would affect the cancer numbers. And, I didn’t know whether the exhaustion was due to the heat (over 100 degrees for 30 days), the exertion (lifting and moving seven-eight bales of hay two-to-three times a day) or my age (60-year-old doing stuff that normally someone in their 20s would be doing), or whatever.
I don’t think I have sweat this much in years. I’m just a wuss.
But when we met with the doc, he had nothing but good news. The c-19 markers that he uses to determine spread and/or growth of the tumors in the pancreas and liver continue to drop. The last visit they were 190, and today they were 180. Months ago, they were at their highest — 212. Dr. Trumbly said that normally these markers run between 0-35 for someone without this cancer. So, my numbers at 180 are high, but more advanced patients have numbers that run in the thousands, so we pray for stability. But these marker numbers are dropping, and that’s a good thing.
How ironic is this? We revel and celebrate when we have LESS of something instead of MORE. Hell, imagine how much I would celebrate if these numbers were to drop to the 0-35 range. Drinks are on me!
And the good news continues. From this point forward, I will see Dr. Trumbly every THREE months instead of every six weeks.
Thanks to all of you for your good wishes, prayers and staying in touch. I love you all.
Cancer-boy may be lifting more bales and totin’ more water if it means these numbers continue to fall.
To God be the glory!
July 28, 2011 at 5:41 PM
To God be the glory indeed! You are evidence of the power of prayer, a positive attitude, and the value of taking control of your health treatment on your own terms!
Sue and I couldn’t be happier for you!
July 28, 2011 at 9:11 PM
Thanks, Dave. We are, indeed, blessed. I hope you are doing well and staying cool with the weather we’ve been having these days. But we both know that it’s easy to be positive when positive things are happening. Best to you, Sue and the kids, as usual.
July 28, 2011 at 5:58 PM
WOW! Can you send some of that “Vita-Meat-A-Veg-A-Min” my way?? I think I need it. Maybe it’ll make my ills go away too!
You know it’s what we all pray for, not only for you but for Patti too.
Luv ya!
July 28, 2011 at 9:20 PM
Thank you, Lynne, for the kind sentiments. I hope you are staying cool this summer with all this heat. Maybe that windstorm out in the Gulf will bring you some rain and some cooler temps. By the way, those tablets I take are called Simple Choice Garlic and Cruciferous Vegetables. Each bottle comes with 100 softgels.
Recommended serving is two tabs. I take eight after each meal. I think these little babies help a tremendous amount. If you want to order some, you can call 800-854-8548. They may work and they may not. After all, our bodies are all different. What works for some may not work for others and vice versa.
Stay in touch, Lynne.
July 28, 2011 at 10:47 PM
Thanks Lynn, We are proof positive that prayers work! Not only is Derek symptom free, but I still like having him around 24/7! We are blessed with the ability to enjoy life on our terms and while some of our time is taken up with horses and dogs, a big portion of our day is spent enjoying what God has given us…. each other! Hope all is well with you and your family…. try the veggie tabs…. they certainly can’t hurt, just don’t take as many as Derek…. you would have a different outcome! Your body only uses what it needs, if you get my drift!! Good luck
July 29, 2011 at 10:53 AM
LOL!!! I certainly do get your drift, Patti! After my close call with colon cancer 3 years ago I know what you mean about the body only using what it needs. It does it every morning to me!
I’m so glad you’re taking such good care of each other. I know just how much Derek loves you and wants to be around for you. I’m glad you have each other.
Enjoy and celebrate each day and each other!
July 29, 2011 at 11:25 AM
God bless you, Lynne. Those are wonderful comments. You have a good weekend and stay away from Don. Be cool.
August 3, 2011 at 11:31 AM
Derek, I love hearing this news! thanks for sharing and keeping us all informed. Good things happen to good people…and you are one of the good-est I know! I think a little hard work may be good for you…as long as there’s a cocktail in between each bale or bucket! Take care. Many blessings! laurie