Happy Valentine’s Day – PET Scan
9:30am
This morning I am writing from the BC Cancer clinic where Sam will have a PET scan (the previous scan was done prior to the radiation and BMT). Today’s scan should show the current state of cancer in his body. Ideally the cancer is gone but I will also take reduced and not anywhere new. I am not sure how long it would take the new immune system to clean up the last of the disease … of course we are looking forward to having the results but there are waves of anxiety/ fear regarding potential alternative outcomes.
We expect to have initial results back later today when we meet with Sam’s medical team back at BC Children’s hospital.
Thank you for all of your thoughts, care, and prayers.
Victories and concerns
Sam, having been bed-ridden for much of the year, must rebuild his strength and stamina/ energy levels. This is been a slow process and it is likely we had not recognized how low down he was.
We have a big, and exciting transition, ahead of us: the return to home, family, and friends. A return to work and school – though these responsibilities will likely need plans and modifications. There are many practical steps and details to be sorted out. One step at a time!
We are no longer having medical discussions about upcoming treatments. Discussions are now about weaning medications, removing the central line, completing baseline tests for comparison with the pre-BMT testing, and preparations to return home!
We very thankful for the successful delivery and engraftment of the donated stems cells! To whoever made this donation I cannot thank you enough.
We are thankful to the medical team who have explained things incredibly well and who have worked professionally and confidently. Your clear communication, compassion, and care give us great confidence.
Thankful for friends who have chosen to meet regularly to pray for Sam. If you would like to join them talk with Beth H., Krista C., or contact the Westwood Church office.
There is always concern that the cancer remains. We long for the day when Sam is clear of this disease. A PET scan will be done in late February to evaluate how the cancer has been impacted by all the treatments. The expectation is that any remaining cancer, following the chemo and radiation therapies, will be removed by the newly transplanted immune system.