Good News for Darrin
dclock September 7th, 2007
This Tuesday, I had a PET scan. Our expectations were very limited, as my new treatment was only expected to buy me some more time. However, the scan showed that I had a very small (but measurable) shrinkage in the three major cancers. Given this new information, Dr. Parra has suggested we continue with the weekly, 8 hour chemo treatments for at least the next 6 months, or until we no longer see positive results. This is BIG news, as my family and I had prepared ourselves for only a few more months. It was even suggested that if the cancers continue to shrink at the current rate, we could re-evaluate the possibility of surgery to remove the major cancers from both lungs. We are so excited. After all the times we have been told my time was very limited, some good news was very welcome. In a strange way, it was difficult for us to get excited at first, as we have had so many up’s and down’s. We are truly blessed to have been given a gift of more time. Thank you all for your support and prayers.
As far as my little trip to the Emergency Room yesterday, I am doing fine now. One of the side effects that we were not aware of is that the chemo can cause swelling in the brain. (By the way, I am certainly not a Doctor, so please forgive me if I get this wrong) We had a CAT scan of my head and a spinal tap to relieve some pressure and to test. A change up in some of my medications were in order with a couple new additions. The best I can describe was this, imagine the worst headache, with sore ears, jaw and even my eyes hurt to move. However, I am doing much better today and am back at work. Judy (Kim’s Mom) took Katee to chemo so Kim could be with me at the Emergency Room. I would ask you all to pray for Kim, as it must be difficult for her to try to split her time between Katee and my appointments and chemo treatments, and still find time for Ami and herself. We can see she is getting tired and the stress is heavy for her. Hang in there Kim. We love and appreciate you!
Hey, Darrin, Tom Garcia here. Am very sorry to hear about the health issues with you and Katee and how hard it must be on all of your family. Got to be tough, but sounds like you both are pretty tough, have the right attitude, and have a whole lot of support, which is awesome.
Can’t believe how long it has been since I spoke to you. From reading the articles I feel like I have I caught up a little bit. You have a beautiful family. Anyway, I am sorry, but I can only leave a short message right now and will not be able to reply for a couple of days as I will be out of town with limited email. Just wanted to send you a hello and to tell you that I have been thinking about and praying for you and your family since I got the news. Lean on Him.
I will be in touch soon,
Take care,
Tom
Darrin, the news of the shrinkage in great. We are praying for continued progress as well as for our family to be lifted up in this trying time.
Tom