As you know, the last high definition MRI and CT scans showed that Dan had 10 new tumors in his brain. The oncology radiologist set up three appointments for stereotactic radiographic surgery (or "zapping the tumors" in lay terminology) so that they could radiate all 10 without exhausting Dan or causing too much pain for his back. The procedure requires total stillness and that his head be encased in a form-fitted plastic mask and literally bolted to the table. With his back issues, they were not sure how long he could tolerate being immobilized.
This past Tuesday, they did the first procedure and he did so well, they were able to do 5 of the 10 with only a little break in the middle to remove the tight mask from his face and let him move a little bit. That appointment took 2 hours. Dan was encouraged and felt he could do that again today.
This afternoon, he had the second appointment and they were able to complete the treatments to all of the other 5 tumors. It seemed to be important to Dan to get it done in two sessions. I told him if it were me, they'd only need one, b/c with my claustrophobia issues, they would have to put me to sleep, period! I don't know how he does this while being conscious, but I suspect your prayers are playing into it quite a bit. We praise God for helping Dan to get through this in only 2 sessions! And I'm grateful for a friend who kept me company while I waited during both of those sessions! Thanks, Jennifer!
Please keep praying for us. We have a meeting with the primary oncologist early Tues. morning to decide what comes next in terms of chemo treatments. We are both thinking Avastin but are not sure of the other choices just yet, or even if there are any other choices.
We are still moving ahead with our "normal" plans for summer, holding them loosely, but remaining hopeful that we will still be able to spend much of the summer in upstate NY.
Thank you for praying for us…we FEEL it….and we are grateful!! Jodee and Dan
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