Day By Day…

As I have stated before, when it comes to glioblastomas, I have been pretty lucky.  The original craniotomy was successful.  The doctors were pretty certain that they removed the entire tumor.  However, due to the aggressiveness of this type of cancer there is always a concern of it coming back.  What this means is that anyone dealing with a glio has to be tested for tumor regrowth on a regular basis. 

My current treatments/schedule put me in an MRI capsule every 8 weeks.  Seven weeks ago I had my last test.  Things looked good from what the doctors at MD Anderson could see through the scar tissue and radiation damage.

Typical Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Machine

I am scheduled for another MRI next week.  The nerve-racking anticipation as each new test date approaches can be overwhelming.  I feel that I do a good job of keeping these thoughts from consuming me, but I am sure they weigh more on me than I realize.  I am also aware of how heavy this is for Rhonda and the rest of my family.

If that is not all bad enough, the time between can also be worrisome.  A glioblastoma mass can double in size every 7 to 10 days.  So a new or undetected small mass can quickly become a rather troublesome size in the two months between MRIs.  Instead of focusing on what I cannot control, I choose to concentrate on the love and support that I get from friends and family.  This and a mindset of taking thing day by day helps me get through this in a way I never thought possible.  I know “taking things day by day” sounds so cliché, but that is exactly what it takes to stay sane through times like this.  Who am I kidding; I currently take things hour by hour.

Rhonda and I enjoying ourselves at the grand opening
of 127 SOBO Art Association in Winter Garden FL