In my last post, I mentioned that my ethnic background is robust, sturdy stock which over the years has helped me overcome some health setbacks. Apparently, it also means that I grow robust, sturdy cancer cells that are invasive and persistent to say the least. In early January new growths (different in structure and size from the previous lesions) started appearing under the skin. So, you guessed it - another CT scan and biopsy with the results being more aggressive lymphoma in several locations in my body. So, back we go to chemo - another 6 rounds, every 21 days using a much stronger cocktail. No firm date yet for treatments to begin but should be in the next couple of weeks.
The 4 doctors I have working on my file are very perplexed by the course the disease is taking - the significant issue being that lymphoma is always characterized by enlarged lymph nodes that are cancerous. I have cancerous lesions and tumors throughout my body, but the lymph nodes are unaffected. The pathology still indicates mantle cell lymphoma, so am still in "lab rat" mode as the doctors try to figure out how to treat me and get in front of this runaway train (my TLM colleagues will recognize this term).
We are still working towards a stem cell transplant but only if and when we can get the spread under control. In the meantime, the search will continue for a donor match.
Our weather this winter has been horrible with excessive days of rain, rain and more rain. I think we've turned the corner now and for the next 2 weeks the forecast is for lots of sunshine. In another month, buds will be opening and spring will have arrived. (Sorry Toronto and Winnipeg!)
So, 2019 has not started in the direction we were hoping for. Nonetheless, we'll move forward and tackle this next challenge with the encouragement and support from family and friends. Trust that all is well at your end and hope to chat with you soon.