(Written 7/14/2009)
I had my first visit with the oncologist today and the news is good: the cancer in my lower back and pelvis can be treated successfully with drugs (chemotherapy) and probably not require radiation or surgery.
It is a slow growing tumor, and is very treatable. However, it’s not curable in that a doctor would never be sure that it is complete eradicated from my body. That means watching for a return of cancer in the future. This cancer is called a follicular lymphoma.
I might begin treatments as early as Friday. Except for some lower back pain, the tumor does not affect my health or stamina. I feel fine.
The doctor also plans to do some tests to see if there is more cancer elsewhere, although at this time there is no evidence of it spreading.
I think my prognosis is good, and I thank all of you for your prayers and wonderful notes of encouragement. If you are just hearing about this for the first time don’t worry – the tumor was unknown until one week ago today. The pathologist officially pronounced it cancerous on Friday, July 10th. Things have been moving rapidly.
All in all, I think that today’s news is about the best that I could have expected. I will endeavor to keep you updated.
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