Oncologist tomorrow...

We were told six weeks ago that Jim's NSCLC Lung Cancer had returned. Last week Jim had a CT and a PET scan. Tomorrow my husband Jim should receive the results of these two tests. These test results should determine the rate of growth of the new cancer spots. The PET scan should also tell us if the cancer has spread to any other parts of his body. The ROG and location will help determine what options are available to Jim.

I do not know what the news will be. I am nervous, and a bit scared. I am fearful that it will be bad results. I know that there is nothing that I can do but wait and worry. I think that I will feel more comfortable once I hear the outcome, good or bad. After we hear the conclusions, Jim and I can make a plan. No matter the results, the waiting often seems worse. It has been a very long six weeks. At least when I have a plan, I will feel like I am doing something.

The Plan...

My husband Jim met with his oncologist. Jim now has a chemotherapy plan in place. The doctor stated that Jim’s treatments will be “harsh and aggressive”. Jim will most likely lose his hair. Jim will most likely display severe symptoms from the chemo sessions.

Jim’s first appointments are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Monday’s appointment will take over 7.5 hours. The nurse said “pack a lunch!” I’m glad the nurses seem humorous. Jim will enjoy that. Jim will have at least four cycles. Each cycle is 28 days, with some days treatment and some days off. It may extend to six cycles, but that will be determined later. Jim will also, most likely, have radiation. The amount and location of the radiation will be determined later.

Jim is feeling like he wants this all behind him. He really isn't scared; perhaps cautious is a better word. He wonders about all the unknowns in the equation. He isn't too upset about the hair loss because it is what it is.

I am ready to get the ball rolling. I am ready for Jim to heal. I am ready to get the cancer out of him so that we can get back to our ‘normal’ selves. I know that the road will be long, and difficult. I know we will face multiple challenges. I know we will have problematic situations. I also know that we will get through this, together. 

We desire your prayers, good wishes and encouraging words. 

Doctor called...

The doctor has called and confirmed that my husband, Jim, has lung cancer. (See previous posts for details.) We will be moving ahead quickly now. Jim will be having a PET  scan to be sure the cancer is only in the lung. If no new cancers, then surgery will be "soon". The doctor did not give a date/time, just "soon".  

Jim has told daughter Jessica, son Dan, daughter Kira, daughter Kristen, son Matt. Matt, age 11, took the news much better than we expected. Matt asked Jim if he was going to die. Jim answered "that is not my plan!" A few close friends and family know what we are dealing with. Jim will tell others in his own time. Thank you for your support. :)