8/24/04 – CT Scan results

The CAT scan showed that there are two spots they want to evaluate further – one on my lung and one on my liver. They are very small – 7mm and 4mm, so it was actually unusual that they were detected at all. These spots are apparently not uncommon and are usually benign. The concern is that since I have an actual cancer diagnosis, they could be an indication of metastasis (spread to another area of my body). Most likely, if they were cancer, they would respond to the chemo I will be having.

As a result of this and just to make sure we've covered all our bases, I will be having a PET scan tomorrow. This scan takes 3 hours and is different than a CAT scan. They inject a glucose solution that would 'collect' around the area of any fast-producing (cancer) cells. The results are seen immediately in an area that lights up orange in color. If the two areas of concern light up, they will assume that they are cancer and continue on with the plan to start chemo. Then, they would retest again in 3 months to see if there is a change. If they do not light up, the plan is really the same for chemo. The drug choice would be altered a bit, but it's generally the same treatment.

So, please keep this issue in prayer. I'm feeling more positive today about it, with a gentle reminder to myself that God is STILL with me! Yesterday was a bit of a blow, but not devastating. Nothing is going to surprise God, who knows exactly what I need and when I need it!

Thanks again for your prayers! The body of Christ is far-reaching and a powerful force!

Stephanie