Scan results

I spent almost two hours in my oncologists office, which I don't even think I did at diagnosis. We went over all the details of the last scan and compared them to the previous scans pictures. I never felt like I was rushed or that she did not have time for my questions.  I was in the room alone with Doctor Haley for close to an hour before we called in my family.  I must have asked three times if she wanted me to get them, and she just kept saying that she would go over all of it with them again, she just wanted to go over it with me first.  I felt this great connection between patient and physician... that she wanted me to understand what she was feeling.

All to say that the scans are particularly worse. I was actually quite surprised. I am having some increased pain, which usually clues me in, but I was just quite optimistic that I would be able to stay on the not so toxic Ixempra. I was REALLY praying that was the drug for me.  I am thankful that God knows the plan way before me.  I am also thankful for the past three months of relative side effect and pain free days.  

The new "plan" is to see an orthopedic surgeon right away as the progression to my hip makes them think the risk that I could fall/break this bone is significantly greater as the bone is eaten away in several places. She thinks a solution might be a pin put in my hip to make it more secure.  Again, having something to do is hopeful.  I have actually wanted to see an orthopedic doctor for a while as my mets are only in bone.  I thought this type of specialist might have a unique perspective.  Please pray I connect with the right doctor.  I will first get a referral for a doctor at my same hospital.  But if they cannot get me in soon, I will go outside UT Southwestern to get going as soon as possible.

Step two is to transfer to another hospital, a research hospital in the area, Mary Crowley Medical Research Center. It is a center devoted to clinical trials.

My oncologist thinks there is still treatments she can do, with various chemo treatments, but she also feels like we are in a crossroads, where a new avenue could really bring better results. She said at the Crowley center, I can get, hopefully some targeted therapy that would not be available through her for a while. I just need a good treatment now, as I have had 3 poor scans in a row.  

Pain now is manageable.  Dr. Haley wants me to use my cane for extra support even if I feel like I can walk without it (in that case I am trading to a nice hot pink number!).  I am also having good success taking Alieve.  I have the ability to double my pain patch, which is a good back up.  Fortunately, I have not needed it the last few days as the other has worked fine.  

I am pretty weary emotionally right now. But, I know my faith is not worth much if I am not trusting in Him in the bad news as well as the good. I am trusting in Him, who knew about these stupid results long before I did.  I am coveting your prayers right about now!

I remember I owe you pictures.  I have had a busy day and I knew this was important to get out to you.

Take care,
Jess