Well... what can we say. We went to Cleveland as planned. We met with the RN and Eric signed the clinical study agreement forms. We left their office for a full day of tests. Eric was stuck by 4 more needles for injections to support the testing and of course had the pleasure of drinking two yummy beverages for the CT scan and fasting was also part of the testing process. A typical day when you go to the hospital for testing. We finally made it back to the oncology department to meet with the doctor. Then we hear the words that we had hoped to never hear again.
The doctor told us that Eric could no longer be recommended for the clinical study because the scan has indicated that there may be new cancer cells in his lungs. OH NO........ The plan has changed and what does this all mean?? Trying to understand this is very difficult. The last scan was done September 4th and cancer has appeared in another spot. It is still kidney cancer but in the lungs. Of course, he can't be sure without a biopsy but he was pretty certain that it was the reoccurrence of disease. The cells are very very small at this time. He has recommended that nothing is done with medications at this time. He will contact us with an appointment in eight weeks. At that appointment, another CT scan will be done to compare to the one done yesterday to analyze the growth of the cells. If they have grown, the doctor may recommend treatment at that time. If they don't change, then we will continue to return for scans. There are a couple of treatment options available and the decision about which one depends on the scan results.
We have to believe that it was not God's plan that Eric participate in the clinical study. If the disease has reoccurred then Eric will receive the proper medical treatment according to the test results. With the study, Cleveland Clinic would not have even known what treatment Eric was receiving. We will now deal with facts and the decisions for treatment will be the result of those facts.
We continue to feel strengthened by the love and support of friends and family. Your love carried us to Cleveland yesterday and home again. Eric said half way there, I can feel the love of so many. I can't believe how many people really love me. The next eight weeks will be a tough wait. Please continue to pray for Eric to continue healing physically and most of all emotionally. This was a big set back again but we need to get past it and get back to some normal days... "the new normal" that we are seeking day by day.
Love to all... Eric and Gwen
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7 comments:
Eric and Gwen,
Was so sorry to hear about the results of your trip into Cleveland yesterday. Am praying for you in my daily prayers, and if there is ever anything that i can do for you, please call me.
U. Beryl
Eric, Gwen, Emily, and Adam
We love you all very much. When you hurt .. we hurt. Our love and prayers are reaching across the miles.
Mike and Barb
Eric... you are right... lots of people love you and are praying for you. Stay strong (Gwen also).
Thinking of you all, Jennifer
Eric... you are right... you have so many people that love you and are praying for you. Stay strong (Gwen also).
Thinking of you all, Jennifer
Sorry... didn't think my first comment got posted. :)
There is a song the kids sang once at VBS. "I will depend on him, I will not lean on my own understanding. In everything I do, I gotta have the courage to trust in God." We know how hard that is. And with you, we are trusting in God that he has an amazing plan for you. we love you and are praying.
Dear Eric, Gwen and family: We are thinking of you and praying for you everyday! Yes--you do have the love and support of your family and your friends! Keep going and keep thinking of all of us pulling for you---that will give you strength.
Love, Jeanne and family
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