What they found was microscopic residual cancer cells around the edges of the tumor, but they found no cancer anywhere else. What this means is I'm not going to have any more surgeries for the foreseeable future.
Now comes the fun part. The big problem with cancer is the body's immune system doesn't recognize cancer cells as foreign entities, so the newest treatments have been designed around tricking the immune system to see that they really are foreign invaders.
So once a week for the next 6 weeks, I will have a type of weakened tuberculosis bacteria injected into my bladder. This treatment has proven highly successful against my kind of cancer. After 6 weeks, I'll take a short break, then begin the regimen again. If all goes well, my immune system will take care of business and I can move on with my life.
As always, your notes of encouragement, support and love are totally appreciated. Thank you one and all.
Yikes! so glad to hear the good news part of your saga, and I'm fascinated to hear about the treatment. Here's to your immune system.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much.
DeleteGood news is always a positive. Prayers that the treatments work exactly as they predict. You’ve many memories to make in years ahead.
DeleteThank you very much.
DeleteWow Paul. I knew something was happening, wasn't sure what....
ReplyDeleteIf you guys need ANYTHING, please let me know. We don't live next to each other, but Martin and I are still close by! Sending all the good vibes! Georgene
Thanks Georgene.
DeleteThis is good news, and this precautionary treatment - while not sounding fun - will ensure you get to see your grand kid(s) grow. They have made great strides in treating cancer - as a person living with it I can attest to that! Stay positive and spoil that little one!!
ReplyDeleteThank you. I intend to. We just spent a week with her and I'm can't wait until I see her again.
DeleteGood news is good. You are still moving forward with treatments that sound promising. Be well rested to help your body get well.
ReplyDeleteWow, what a complicated saga, but it appears that your spirits and optimism are up. All the best. Eagle Rock Rob
ReplyDeleteThanks Rob.
DeleteScience has come so far, I’m glad there’s a treatment for you. Try and do natural things to also support your immune system, exercise and eating well can always help too. You’ve got this!
ReplyDeleteI'll take that as very good news! It's amazing the kind of treatments that are available for cancer these days, and that one sounds very promising. I'm sure the injections won't be a picnic, but keep your eyes on the prize.
ReplyDeleteThank you Cynthia.
DeleteThis is good news. The road is not going to be easy and it’s a PIA but worth it. It’s doable. You’re going to be able to spend plenty of quality years with those grandkids. Sending lots of strength and positivity your way. - Carolyn (NotableFind)
ReplyDeleteThanks Carolyn.
DeletePaul, this is positive news, I think even though the bacteria in the bladder sounds interesting. We are hoping and praying this goes well and soon this whole episode will be a distant memory.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much. My first treatment is tomorrow morning.
DeleteMy brother in law completed that regimen last years. He is cancer free. Praying the same will occur for you. Sharon Repp
DeleteThank you Sharon. That is very encouraging.
Delete