Today we met with Dr. Woo, the radiologist, and Dr. Rhines, who specializes in neurosurgical oncology and is the Director of the Spine Program here at MD Anderson. Each of these doctors will conference with Dr. Anderson (our main doctor here), and we have an appointment with Dr. Anderson at 1:00 tomorrow, or shortly thereafter. During tomorrow's meeting with Dr. Anderson, we expect to work through the plan of attack on this evil cancer. Although I can't say for sure until this time tomorrow, here is what we THINK is probably going to be the outcome of that meeting.
We THINK their approach is going to be to do Chemo and also radiation on the new location in the lower spine, in an effort to kill, slow down, and/or shrink the tumor growth already there. We know that we have been scheduled for a "simulation" with radiology (Dr. Woo) on Wednesday, and they probably wouldn't have done that if they didn't plan on radiating that particular tumor. We also know that two other of our doctors, Dr. Lewis and Dr. Rhines, both surgeons, don't recommend surgery until some new Chemo has been given an opportunity to shrink and/or kill the tumors. Either surgery (whether on the hip area or on the lower spine area) would be a very major deal, and both surgeons state they just don't want to do that kind of surgery unless it becomes a sort of last resort.
Again ... the previous paragraph is what we THINK is going to happen, but we won't know for certain until after tomorrow's meeting with Dr. Anderson, after he has had a chance to consult with Dr.'s Lewis, Woo, and Rhines. Also, by this time tomorrow, we should have a more definitive schedule of treatment, at least for the coming weeks.
Other than that, we've had a great day together here in sunny Houston. Amanda and Denise are a joy to be with, and always as much fun as a barrel of monkeys. There seems to be no event about which they can't make a joke, and they constantly pick on me something terrible. :-)
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6 comments:
That's good... because you NEED to be harassed!!
Ok Aaron ... just for that, I may send your mailing address to every junk mail list in the country. :-)
We will be praying for you and your Amanda. She has many new friends-thru our mutual friends Andy,Megan and Ryan. My cousin Joyce and her husband are nearby also at MD Anderson. Andy has Joyce's cell number. Let us know if you need anything. Take care.
Brent & Carolyn
well we know that laughter is like a medicine, so keep up the yolks! Seriously we will be praying for you all.
Good Morning Amanda, Denise and Larry!!! How wonderful this blog site is! Amanda, I feel very special that the film of Amanda ringing the radiation bell is on Utube. My next appt is on Thursday @ 2:30 at MDA. Will you all still be in Houston? Please email and let me know, so we can meet!! Most important, please know I am keeping Amanda and the Doctors in prayer today, that a plan is developed to destroy this pesty beast for good. I bet your an awesome cheerleader Amanda!!!!!
ptobin512@sbcglobal.net
Much Love and prayers,
Patty
Amanda, I am so happy you flew all the way back from Houston for the dance. You looked absolutely stunning and your sweet and joyful spirit was a blessing to everyone. You are covered in prayer and we love you so much!
Mrs. Schauwecker
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