Several weeks ago Brad noticed that he had a swollen lymph node in his groin. Since we're hyper-sensitive to the lumps and bumps, he wanted me to verify he felt something there. By the following week it had nearly doubled in size. This quick growth prompted an immediate e-mail to Dr. Fintel (who responds super quick to our random inquiries). When he didn't respond, Brad called the office to find out he was on a European cruise. Damn it.
We were able to see Dr. Fintel last Tuesday and he verified that a lump was indeed identifiable. While we both knew this, and nothing new was discovered in Dr. Fintel's office, I did have a meltdown knowing in my heart that the treatments Brad has been enduring since February have not been successful.
When discussing how we move forward, we were given a couple of options:
1. Continue having the same infusions that Brad has been having throughout the year or
2. Move into radiation therapy
You're probably asking yourself "why would Brad continue having the same treatment he has been having if it's been unsuccessful?" Trust me, I asked the EXACT same question. Dr. Fintel's response was that although Brad's treatment has not discontinued the growth of the lymph nodes, it has isolated them to one area, which would likely not have been the case without the infusions. I followed that question up with "what is the anticipated outcome if Brad continues the infusions?" The exact response word for word from Dr. Fintel is that we should "expect the bear to come out of its cave in the next 6-12 months." When clarifying this, Dr. Fintel indicated he would expect an aggressive change in Brad's health if we did not change our course of action.
We decided on the spot to move into the option of radiation therapy and we left with an appointment to Brad's new Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Hess, who we met last Friday. Before Brad can have any radiation, he has to undergo another bone marrow biopsy to ensure that there is less than 25% cancer within his bones (we are confident this will be the case). If Brad were to have radiation and had more than 25% cancer within his bones, it would likely kill him. Yes please, we'll take the bone marrow biopsy. His biopsy is scheduled for October 23rd with the anticipation that radiation will take place shortly after all of his preparatory appointments.
The great news about this treatment is Brad can still have a bone marrow transplant afterward or if decided, he could even have this particular radiation again. Thankfully, the side effects should be less than when Brad was on chemo. The biggest danger is that because the radiation is so strong, within a few weeks all of his red and white blood cell counts will bottom out. This puts him at a high risk for getting sick - perhaps we'll package him in bubble wrap!
Since last week, a second swollen lymph node has been found. I have to admit, I'm a little anxious for the next PET scan to see what else may be detected (this will be done before radiation). I'm praying there's nothing more than we know now, but we'll keep you all posted.
There's lots more to share, including some of the precautions after Brad's radiation takes place, but I'd hate to ruin the surprise. This means you'll have to read it in another update very soon. Thanks for the many continued thoughts and prayers.
Hugs,
Sandy
