The results of the Sue’s most recent scan may be summarized as ‘no significant change from last time’. There is no visible evidence of additional lesions in the body or head. Amusingly,  the oncologist relayed the results of Sue’s head scan as follows – “the two scans of your head revealed that there was nothing there…”.  I tried to keep a straight face and my mouth closed, but failed!! Overall, this is a good result because the previous scan showed that the chemotherapy has been effective in shrinking the tumour and lesions, and slowing the progression of the cancer. This has been maintained and the oncologist is calling Sue “stable”. Again, I had to work hard not to utter any inappropriate comments!

There was discussion with the oncologist about stopping the chemotherapy at this stage due to the accumulating side effects and because further improvement in the cancer and lesions is unlikely. Apparently, the experience with this type and stage of cancer indicates that where the response is positive, as it has been, the benefit is usually maintained for between 8 and 12 months from commencement of treatment – after which time the cancer is likely to get aggressive again.  We are at 6 months now so there is likely a bit of breathing room for some months now.  It is all about statistics, averages and odds of course so there is nothing we can actually ‘bank on’. There are also further treatment options that can be considered in due course.

Sue has completed 6 cycles of the current chemotherapy regime – which is considered a complete course of this particular regime (Xelox). There is apparently some potential value in continuing on so long as the patient can cope with the accumulating side-effects. After working through the options, we decided that Sue would stop the major infusion (Oxaliplatin) but continue with the minor infusion (Avastin) and tablets (Capecitebine/Xeloda) for two more cycles. This should mean that Sue will not feel as ‘wrecked’ after the infusions, nor should her neuropathy (numbness and tingling in hands and feet) get any worse. Both these things are side-effects of the Oxaliplatin apparently.

Additional Cycle #1 occurred yesterday and was uneventful and much quicker too. Additional Cycle #2 will take place on 26 February. After that, and all things being equal, Sue will then have a period of rest (no treatment) and then further scans to see whether the gremlins are still hibernating or have decided to come out and play.

In short, it is all is about as good as we could hope in all the circumstances. We remain at peace with what is going on and are quick to thank God for the joys and opportunities that each day brings.

On that note, Monday 27th was a day of particular and special joy as Mitchell Ryan Bateman and Lauren Grace McElroy announced their engagement.  Wooo Hooo!