Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Downgrading

We had yet another doctors appointment today. This time, it was a follow-up with Dr. Koeleveld, Chad's neurologist.
And....it was somewhat good news! Finally, we're getting some good news!
The brain tissue sample that was extracted on November 17 was sent to Johns Hopkins for further study. The results just came back this morning. Apparently, it's not as bad as we initially thought. The first report given by the pathology team at WakeMed had Chad listed as stage 3 - stage 4 Astrocytoma. Astrocytomas are very aggressive & grow very quickly. Which had us (me!) pretty scared.
Today, we were told that the tumor does not appear to be Astrocytoma - but stage 2 Oligodendroglioma. While we would never wish to have a brain tumor, we would much rather have this type. Oligiodendrogliomas are less aggressive and do not grow as fast - and typically respond better to treatment.

Chad's tumor is still of great concern. We're not out of the woods yet, since we have to face chemo & radiation very soon. However, we don't feel like we're fighting a losing battle anymore.

Chad also got the go ahead to resume some normal activities - running, light weights, etc. Still no driving, for the next 6 weeks or so at least. Dr. Koeleveld is very encouraged by Chad's reaction to Keppra, the anti-seizure medication.

Little victories, everyday.

13 comments:

Anonymous said...

THIS IS CERTAINLY ENCOURANGING NEWS TO HEAR, HOPEFULLY IT WILL GIVE THE STUBORN BUZZARD A MUCH BETTER SHOT AT BEATING THIS AWFUL THING!

GUESS WHO?

skye said...

Ha - I would say Memaw & Poppi? Am I right?

Emily said...

I was just thinking about you guys and wondering how things were going. I was glad to see an update, and a good one : ) I'm glad Chad is feeling better. I hope you are able to enjoy this time before chemo begins. More hugs....

Anonymous said...

That's great news!

Anonymous said...

That is wonderful news and so encouraging!We hope you all can resume some normal activities and enjoy the Holiday.
Hugs and Kisses to you all!
Aunt Carmen & Uncle Robby

Amanda said...

Skye I am so glad I checked your blog before I logged off for the day. Such great news. It's almost like a Christmas miracle :-
)

Anonymous said...

I'm so glad you got some great news! I'm glad Chad can start slowly getting back into the things he enjoys too! Thanks for the update.

Sip said...

little victories, indeed!!! well said!

Anonymous said...

Hooray! Hooray! Maybe the tide is turning.....or could it be that Chad is just tired of me sleeping on the couch????? (I love you Chad!)

Amanda said...

What a wonderful praise....That is great...we all are believing and praying for more and more little victories...baby steps...That's wonderful.

Anonymous said...

we will be there friday dudes!!!

Amber said...

Oh Skye, that is wonderful news about the change in the diagnosis. I am sure that you are thankful and relieved that it is even a little less severe than you originally thought. You all will continue to be in my prayers daily.

Anonymous said...

What great news so close to Christmas, tell Carys Santa really is watching. We all will keep the prayers coming your way, they are working for us.