Cancer Chronicles – Surgery Follow Up

Toward
Higher
Ground 

 My first follow up with my surgeon was Thursday afternoon, August 28^th.  All 29 staples were removed. 

Dr. Johnson told me that my case had been a topic of discussion that morning with a group of physician’s, including a medical oncologist.  The oncologist stated that he did not believe I was a candidate for adjuvant therapy (therapy applied after initial treatment for cancer, especially to suppress secondary tumor formation).  This is what I received in 2010, and at that time it led to temporary liver damage.  Also, what was just removed is “secondary tumor formation” (Stage IV).  The oncologist suggested that participation in a clinical trial may be the best treatment strategy at this time.

Dr. Johnson recommended that I follow up with this particular oncologist¸ however, his staff informed us that the oncologist does not take our insurance (United Health Care).  So, Dr. Johnson is doing some research, and looking closely at possibilities in Hershey, Lehigh Valley, and Johns Hopkins.

Meanwhile, I am scheduled for a PET scan and an MRI on Monday, September 8^th.  Results will not be available for at least 48 hours after that.  I follow up with my surgeon again on September 18^th.

As for “How are you feeling?” – my most frequently asked question, the answer is just fine, except for a little sore and slow.  I have returned to a regular diet, but I am looking very seriously at cancer nutrition strategies, and will adjust as I feel a need to.  Also, I have returned to work as of today, though I am not cleared to drive until next Monday, September 8^th.  When I go to the office this week, I will catch a ride with a colleague.

Finally, let me share with you my personal theme song (for at least this week) by Building 429, and may it bless you as it does me!

"We Won't Be Shaken"

This world has nothing for me 

This life is not my own

I know You go before me and I am not alone

This mountain rises higher

The way seems so unclear

But I know that You go with me so I will never fear

I will trust in You 

Whatever will come our way

Through fire or pouring rain

We won't be shaken

No we won't be shaken

Whatever tomorrow brings

Together we'll rise and sing

That we won't be shaken

No we won't be shaken

No we won't be shaken 

You know my every longing

You've heard my every prayer

You've held me in my weakness

Cause You are always there

So I'll stand in full surrender

It's Your way and not my own

My mind is set on nothing less

Than You and You alone

I will not be moved oh 

Whatever will come our way

Through fire or pouring rain

We won't be shaken

No we won't be shaken

Whatever tomorrow brings

Together we'll rise and sing

That we won't be shaken

No we won't be shaken 

We will trust in You

We will not be moved

We will trust in You

And we won't be shaken