CT scan results

Today was the appointment where I found out the results of Friday's CT scan. A friend is visiting from out of town and drove me to the appointment and went in with me to get the results.

My oncologist's first words were, "We have a lot to discuss."

That scared me a bit, but she started with addressing the possible DVT (blood clot) that the radiologist saw.

The short version of this discussion is just what I figured: This particular radiologist is always very careful and wants to be sure of possible problems. An ultrasound showed there was no blood clot. (I'd already decided that this radiologist's attitude was better safe than sorry. And I appreciate that).

So then my oncologist got to what is the crux for me. Are the meds keeping the cancer in check?

The indications are YES.

The cancer doesn't look worse, and some places are even looking to be healing some. Earlier CTs indicated the same, so that was the news I expected.

Though I was anxious today. I felt tense all morning.

It was nice, though, ultimately to get what I consider to be good news.

My oncologist did mention that there is a place on my lung that appeared "shadowy." She doesn't think it's cancer but instead thinks it's inflammation. But she is referring me to a pulmonologist to find out more. I do have some wheezing sometimes, and I find it hard to catch my breath after exertion. So seeing a specialist makes sense to me.

Overall I'm physically feeling a good bit better. Less bone pain. General better days.

I've lost a lot of muscle strength, though, from feeling rotten and not being active, so my oncologist is also giving me a referral for physical therapy.

And my oncologist is adding another targeted med that works with an aromatase inhibitor. This time I'm trying Ibrance. I couldn't tolerate Kisqali, but she says folks tend to have fewer side effects with Ibrance. It's another med that I'll take for three weeks followed by a week off. I'll need blood work every two weeks but won't need EKGs this time because this one isn't hard on the heart.

So I left today's appointment encouraged. I know that I have more appointments coming up to find out more about what's up with my lungs and get to work on improving my mobility with some PT. And I'm hoping I can tolerate the new med.

But overall today brought good news.

We stopped off at my favorite restaurant to get some takeaway food, and I ran into a "old friend" there. She treated me by picking up the tab. Yet another example of generosity. I keep experiencing generosity of friends and family in so many ways.

I'll end again by saying I'm grateful.

For good news today. For so much support in so many ways. For prayers answered.

For positivity and hope and encouragement.

Lots of gratitudes from me today!