Sorry for the delay in posting - we have been meeting with a series of different doctors this week, gathering opinions re: the best next step in tackling the remaining tumor. -More to come soon after we finalize decisions, but overall it was a really great week.
The oncologist we met with Wednesday said it is amazing that dad does not have signs of Melanoma in any other part of his body - he said he is a really rare case (in a positive way). If we can tackle the remaining tumor and ensure all signs of melanoma in the brain have been decimated, since there are no other signs anywhere else in his body, dad could essentially be in "remission." We may still explore preventative treatment options when we get to that point, but otherwise it would just be a case of monitoring closely (every 2 months).
It's actually a blessing that dad had the episodes/symptoms that he had - otherwise he could have gone much longer with the two tumors in his brain, allowing the chance for the melanoma to spread further before diagnosing/treatment.
The oncologist also said it's a "good time to have melanoma." He said as recent as two years ago, there were not any drugs approved by the FDA to treat the disease - now there are 2 and several research-based treatment options. He also made it sound like we are on the verge of seeing more advances in options - Thank God for technology, research, donations and amazing doctors!
I will post again soon, but I will leave you with this: We were having a serious conversation with the Oncologist and in chimes Dad with "well........ if the Cardinals can do it, I can do it!!!" typical dad - love it. Thank you all for the ongoing support - please keep up the comments, they really keep Dad motivated!!!
That's the Earl I know and Love!!!Go get that win, but don't keep us on the edge of our seats like the Cardinals-they didn't callem the "Cardiac Cardinals" for nothin! Love always,Cheryl
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to hear you had a positive week! Keep the good news coming! Kristin Z.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you are doing so well. You have several things going for you: dedicated and loving family and friends, good health (for an old man that is...he he he) great sense of humor, and unlimited determination and positive attitude. (I think grandbabies help a lot too)We check your page every day and always look forward to seeing your progress. Marland and all of us here
ReplyDeleteJust want to say so glad to hear the positive news about treatment and prognosis and I'm pulling for you, Earl! (and Bonnie, and Aften and the entire family)
ReplyDeleteNancy Taylor
Obviously this fight isn't over, but the news sounds positive; like your attitude, Earl! A lot of people ask about you; thankful you have this blog to check on current status. Hope to see you again real soon. Herb and Carol
ReplyDeleteDammit Earl, you’re paying that Doc too much $$ to not attention like that. Keep it up and you'll find yourself with another hole in your head! Remember: the mind is a terrible thing. Good work my friend! God Bless you and your clan down in the culdesac (for enduring Glenn)
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