Deb in South Devon, May 2011
As days go, this was a good one. Because of the detrimental effects to her blood cell production Deb has not been taking any chemotherapy for 6 weeks. During this time she has been really well. She looks good, has lots of energy, wants to do things and is making plans. She does have dizzy spells which seem to be more frequent but are not prolonged and do not stop her from doing anything.
Today we visited the Cancer Centre for the usual blood tests and to get the results of the latest MRI scan which Deb had on 30 June (her 16th since RT).
The results of the blood tests were good. (WBC - 3.7, RBC - 2.1, PLT - 131 ). Platelet count continues to be reasonably high and Deb's bone marrow seems to have recovered from the chemotherapy.
We subsequently saw Dr Sanghera (together with Dr Connelly + a trainee + Claire + Fred + someone else - the room was jammed). We saw the results of the scan on the computer screen. This was good news. The tumour was about the same size as the last scan. I asked why the tumour was not growing, given that Deb had not been on chemo for the last 6 weeks. The doctor said this was due to residual effects of the cytotoxic drugs. The drugs disrupt cell division within the tumour and this effect continues for some time after you stop taking the chemotherapy.
It was agreed that Deb would not restart the chemotherapy for a while. We do not have to return to the hospital until Deb has a further scan in 2 months time when the position will be reviewed. Her steroid dose will remain the same (2mgs per day).
So hopefully Deb's good health will continue for the rest of the summer. We may even have a holiday.
Now only 69 days to go until the London to Brighton Cycle Ride (see blog entry for 22 May). Any more contributions would be very welcome. Go to:
www.doitforcharity.com/ChrisE
See you in 2 months time.
