Outlying data

Justin finally made the trek to Denver in May for scans and a visit with his oncologist. Although I blissfully enjoyed the ten months which lapsed between check-ups, it led to some extra anxiety as the results approached. Regardless of the numbers and radiology reports, Justin has continued to feel pretty dang good. No new ailments or symptoms, no uptick in pain, weight has remained stable, and as always, his spirits are like rays of sunshine.

As for the results, it’s a mixed bag, but still overwhelmingly good. Bloodwork: hemoglobin was normal (he has had been receiving consistent iron infusions here in Cruces) and cancer markers… DOWN! Uh, when does that happen, right? Gut scan: nothing of note other than a novel, yet nondescript and very superficial nodule near his lower ribcage. Chest scan: No new nodules and mostly stable, except three (he has a dozen or more total). Of those three, only 1-2 mm of growth each. The largest being 11 mm. They did not perform a scan of his neck. Maybe next time they’ll remember to add that to the orders.

Do you have questions? Yep, me too.

After the traditional and clearly obligatory pontification about chemo, biopsies, and guilt rationing, I raised my hand (metaphorically, as I was on the phone). This is me … “so he had this blossom of lung nodules while he was in Houston receiving radiation, but not a single new one since. Doesn’t sound like metastasis to me, does it to you? The biggest “growth” was 2 mm over a ten month period. Again, not your typical cancer story. Oh, and every cancer marker, down. This sounds like a good news story to me.” Although I couldn’t see her face, the conversation definitely shifted. Her updated recommendation was to then “stay the course.” I’m still rolling my eyes as I write this.

Regardless, I’ll tell you what this has proven …

GOD ANSWERS PRAYERS!

We are BLESSED by the grace of GOD and each of you who continue to stand by and pray for us!

Oh, and we also had this trip ⬇️

Japan!!! Still having dreams of crowded trains and stations, but wow, what a beautiful country and culture!

Wishing you a wonderful summer!

❤️ Christina