Plan for Treatment

 Over the past 13 years I have chosen to share our journey, both the medical and the ordinary, the good and the bad. I have been so grateful for a space to share my feelings and ask for prayers. I in no way feel "obligated" to update, but one of my pet peeves when I am on the other side of a blog is for someone to ask for prayers and then not update on the situation. I know personally I am anxious to hear how my friends are doing, how I can pray for them and how their prayers are being answered. All of that to say I wanted to jump on quickly to update on Bruce's oncology appointment and to thank those of you who support us and pray for us on our journey.

Bruce and I were able to speak with his oncologist via Telehealth this week. This was really important because it gave me a chance to hear from the doctor and ask questions during this crazy covid time when I cannot attend appointments with him. The Dr. went back through the initial reports and went over the pathology, size of tumor and lymph node involvement (or lack of). He explained that they used to have to make treatment decisions based entirely on this information. Now there is more advanced testing that looks at the molecular structure of the tumor and vasculature and lets you know the likelihood of recurrence based on no treatment or different forms of treatment. He explained Bruce's recurrence score and the percent of recurrence with no treatment (12% within 3 years); using one chemo drug (7% within 5 years) or adding a second more aggressive chemo drug (6% within 5 years). We discussed the side effects of the medications and pros and cons of all three options. We all agreed that when we factor in all information the middle road is the best choice. They are setting up education and working on insurance approval and Bruce should begin in about 2 weeks. 

The one possible issue that may change our plan...His Ct scans that were completed before surgery showed a nodule in one lung (which we were made aware of) and a "spot" on his kidney (which we were not aware of). The oncologist is referring Bruce to a urologist who specializes in kidney cancer to further assess the spot on his kidney. He is hopeful that it is just a cyst or benign tumor because it is extremely rare for Colon cancer to spread to the kidneys. 

We ask for your continued prayers as we navigate Bruce's health issues in addition to the already grueling care of the kids. Pray for us to continue to find joy and laughter in each day.

Ali