Thursday, July 16, 2009

Scan results

Wednesday, July 8, 2009 at 8:40 AM: Appointment with Dr. Martin. Accompanied by Rand and daughter Lyndsay. Got there on time for once. I signed in at 8:30 AM. It was only about 15 minutes before they called us back then, a 2 hour wait. Waiting drives me insane. I think I have read every magazine at least twice. Things I'm not even interested in like People Magazine. Yuk. Dr. Martin was held up in surgery. Candy the nurse was in and out, getting my vitals, asking the routine questions, drawing my PT/INR, poking her head in every now and then to say..."sorry for the wait" I always enjoy the interaction with the staff. Everyone sweet, encouraging and helpful. Finally..."Ms. Cardwell?" Dr. Martins familiar voice as he opens the door. Reaching out, he shakes our hands...chart in tow...now, "the reading of the will" as I refer to it. After discussion, results are...Interval increase in size of right lower lobe lung nodule. This measures a maximum of 1.6 cm as compared to 7 mm on previous scan on 2/25/09. The intensity of activity on PET is low at only 1.25.(Dr. Martin says that a 12 would be indicative of Cancer and he is encouraged by the low reading) However, the interval increase in size is worrisome per the radiologist.

Ok, we got it...some relief, actually a great bit of relief because I knew I was "eat up" by cancer...Every ache, pain or tinge is METS. I can deal with the nodule. Plan of care is discussed and we decided to biopsy. To be proactive and aggressive is important. Dr. Martin agrees and the biopsy is arranged for 2 weeks out. First available is Friday July 17th. 90% better in fear factor. Group hug, tears and sighs of relief. We rejoice that it isn't as bad as I had anticipated. Blessed once again.

My inlaws are waiting in the lobby when we exit. My mother in law hugs and kisses me repeatedly. We then go to breakfast at Cracker Barrel and I head to work. Smiling....

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Cathie, I continue to pray for you and am glad to see you still doing well. Hope this biopsy will be okay. I have thought of you alot lately. I was told monday I have a glioma on my brain. I have to see a neurosurgeon on tues. I am very scared. He said the mri showed that it appeared to be benign. I pray that it is. I cant stand the thoughts of leaving jake. Love you, Michelle Ryder

Cathie Cardwell said...

My Dear Michelle~Special friend, beautiful child, wonderful mother and nurse. You are held close to my heart this day and always. I know you are afraid. Entering the world of the unknown. I am where you are my dear. One thing I have learned on my path is to try not to get caught up in the worry of things that you cannot control. However, I am not one to follow my own advice at times. What I can tell you with confidence is to live in the moment. Even when the world seems grim and cruel. Learn, explore, love, cry, share all of yourself with those around you. Remain faithful and hopeful, love with all of your heart and accept those who offer embracement. Know that I am here for you, please don't forget that. Positive thoughts my dear. Everything in our lives happens for a reason often unknown to us. It may be to teach us something or to teach someone else along the way. Know that you have purpose and that you are loved. God bless you Michelle. Please stay in touch and let me know how your appointment goes. I love you my friend. Cathie

Anonymous said...

My friend,
I am wondering about you and hoping for results from the biopsy soon! I miss ya, and love ya!

I will keep checking and then we will need to meet up for a girl's night!

Love ya!
Kristy

Anonymous said...

Cathie,
Wanted to let you know that we didnt find out alot on tues.
Dr Hauge said 1 of 4 things-- from a fall I had last month, MS, a tumor that he feels will be benign, or born with. I have to go tomorrow (fri) for a pet scan and mra. Thank you so much for praying for me and your kind words- I love you! Please let us know about your biopsy, have you gotten the results yet?? love, michelle

Cathie Cardwell said...

Thank you Kristy for your wonderful friendship. In the past...although not so long ago in the scope of time, we met each Friday after work at the hospital for a girls evening of marguarita's and talk. Years have passed when last we had that special time together. But yet, each, in one anothers heart and thoughts. That is true friendship. You, me and Sabrina...I look forward to another moment with the both of you, to remember, share and create yet another memory. Be well my friend and know that you are forever in my thoughts.

Cathie Cardwell said...

Michelle~

So good to hear from you again. I was hoping you would come back to the site and leave me an update on your appointment. You have a wonderful doctor taking care of you. I have a lot of respect for Dr. Hauge. You got encouraging news! Great for you! Let me know how your testing goes tomorrow. I have been through the "tube" and it is quite humbling. Expect tears and reminiscing through your life path, expect to be afraid and yet, full of love and hope. You are in my heart and I lift you up in faith.