PROCEED WITH CAUTION: POSTER IS GOING TO SHOUT FROM ROOFTOPS IN GLEE!
Well, as many of you know, I had Cyberknife (CK) on my AN 2-1/2 yrs ago..... mine was growing really quick/fast, so I decided on CK once it hit the 1cm mark. I had my CK done over 5 days for a total of 30 Gy. In my case, my ultimate/personal goal was to save whatever hearing I could, thus, I decided on a fractionated approach at a location that offers the only CK in the New England area (as of today, although, I am aware of another one forthcoming locally).
My treatment was in April 2006. Now, 2-1/2 yrs later, I had my MRI this past Monday. I am meeting with my radio team on Aug 25, but, I have the films and today I got the written report (I know, shame on me that I got all this BEFORE the dr even discusses with me).
*drumroll please*
For the past 4 MRI's done in 6 month intervals..... according to the report, we have officially stunted the brain booger's growth! YAY!!!!! No size change whatsoever and in 2 yrs, no growth!!!!!!!! (the ultimate goal of the treatment is to stop it dead in its track/core death).
For looking at the films, me sees a WHOLE LOTTA DARKNESS going on all inside the brain booger! YAY!!!!!!!!!!! I emailed a terrific MRI view over to one of the docs on the CK Patient Support Board/Forum and his comments... "so, looks like we got nothing to worry about"..... works for me.
I am also counting my blessings that my last audiology report shows my hearing at 92%, same as it was before my CK treatment, thus, my personal goal was achieved.
So, on 8/25, I will meet with the radio team, have them review everything but I have a sneaky feeling that they will be celebrating with me.
So, here's a hearty thank you to those that have been here with me since day 1, from first diagnosis and helping me get through the treatment (Hey, Captn Deb, I found that snake last week while I was driving to work... cut right in the path of my car on the road!)..... and to all those that have been there for me after-the-fact and tolerate me.
So, onward and upward. Will see what the docs say on the 25th but based on what I am seeing and reading.... I am a very happy lady!
As many of you may know, I deal with multiple, physical ailments that truly do affect my daily being, but, for me... to conquer this one, which is a small blip on the radar compared to all else I endure.... to know this is working.... I'll take it!
I also understand our realities in our AN journies that continued MRI's will happen... and I pray for no regrowth, although I keep realistic about this, but for this one day, I would like to celebrate... care to join me?
Thank you all for being there for me!
(ok, Jan and Lori, you may commence the hijack... thus, why this is posted in AN Community)
Phyl
