Looks Like It's Working!

Our appointments with Dr Keller are always a lesson in managing expectations. For a few weeks before, we tend to put off making decisions that involve plans after the date of the appointment, not knowing if we'll be looking at surgery, changes in meds or (best case) continue to wait and see. Then on the day of the appointment, we walk that fine line between hoping for the best and bracing for the worst. So imagine our relief and excitement when Dr Keller walked in the room and said, "Good news, it looks like it's working!" We went out in the hall to look at the CT images, which clearly showed a decrease in the size of all the tumors. The right adrenal gland looks almost completely normal, the left is slightly smaller, but it was the one which had shown growth last time (stopping growth is almost as good as regression). The only mixed news was that two spots in the lungs, which we have been watching for two years with no measurable change, have started to shrink. Disappointing to learn that they are probably cancer, but excited that they are responding.

Bobby will continue on Afinitor for three months and we'll check again in January, when the process of anticipation begins again. The best news is that he feels well, the side effects have been manageable, he's exercising and staying busy. Of course, the FAA won't consider reinstating his medical certification any time soon, so he's not able to work, but thankfully we have disability insurance, and the FedEx health insurance program is good.

Was thinking the other day... while I understand the importance of praising God in all our circumstances, since I know He's sovereign and at work in all situations, I must say it's a whole lot more fun to praise Him when the news is good!

Thanks for your faithful prayers! Love, Juli

Another Checkpoint

Bobby had a CT Scan yesterday, after being on Afinitor for two months. Thankfully, the canker sores are under control. The Zovirax and Doxycycline seem to have done the trick, plus zilactin and avoiding spicy foods. He's noticing he has a little less stamina, but overall I think he's doing great. He bought a new road bike and has taken several long rides with friends. Also doing all those fall lawn tasks is keeping him active. Just hope the results of the scan confirm what we're seeing. We meet with Dr Keller on Thursday.