A liver biopsy, at least the type of biopsy I had today, is only slightly uncomfortable for a few moments. There was the typical sting while the local was given and after that the only physical discomfort was pressure. Emotionally there was some discomfort, WHEW, it seemed like it was a long-long needle! I will admit to a couple of tears that trickled down my face for a moment but when I realized that the long-long needle was not painful it became less scary.
Today the word, "spot" was used and the spot where the biopsy was taken was on my right side just below the last rib. I laid on the left side on a firm pillow to move the rib enough for access to the spot. When the doctor was finished I asked if a biopsy was going to be taken where I felt the swelling and the doctor replied that the CT scan only showed the one spot. He then directed the tech to run the ultrasound over the area of swelling and then said that yes there was a small spot there. One plus one equals two spots.
Since April 30Th when the CT was done I have gained another spot. Dr. Patel (radiologist Dr. Patel not my oncologist Dr. Patel) said that he did not want to biopsy the liver in two separate locations on the same day, "it's not good for the liver". He added that we would get the results of the one biopsy and if needed go back and biopsy the other area.
Spots...I think it is not going to be mono. I think my aggressive HER-2 gene has kicked into high gear again. I think on Monday I will be discussing the chemo and radiation plan. I think I may be considered for the clinical trial of another drug that works on the HER-2 gene because maybe it will be considered that Herceptin did not work well for me after all. I think if I lose my hair this time I'm going to keep it really-really short until all the crazy curly hair has grown and been cut off.
I think I have been through this before (three summers ago to be exact) and I think, no make that, I know I have been blessed and will be blessed with all the resources I need to get through this again.
2 comments:
You can't jump ahead, and yet yes,your mind needs to be prepared. No matter what treatment looks like, you have people that will help you and your family get through it. You and I may be taking the harder road than some, but we will be well molded for what God's needs us to still do in the future - and we will have long futures! LOVE YOU and so proud to call you friend!! Donna
Jan,I am praying for you....You are the strongest person I know! Love you so much. nancy
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