The testing is done and the results are in
First, I would like to mention that my computer is very sick. If anyone has emailed me in the last week, and I haven't responded, this is why.
Now for the main reason of this post. Gary has completed all his tests: Xrays, MRI, CT scans... you get the idea. Yesterday, he went to Halifax to get the results and discuss treatment.
The results:
Gary has Eosinophilic granuloma of bone, this is caused by Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. It is a rare blood disease that is non-transferrable, non-hereditary and affects one in two million people. This means that he has too much of a certian type of white bloodcell which causes benign tumor growth on any bone in his body. So far, he has had them removed off his jaw. The results show that he has them on his jaw, his face (skull), and on his upper leg. The ones on his skull are the danger as they can grow and may rupture, injuring the brain.
The treatment:
He will be going through a mild form of chemo called Vinblastine and he will be taking Prednisone daily. The chemo will be once a week for 6 weeks and then once every 3 weeks for 6 months. He may have to travel to Halifax for this, they are trying to make arrangements so the treatment can be done in Saint John.
Gary is hoping to continue working during the Chemo. Please pray that he doesn't have complications and everything goes smoothly.
9 Comments:
Wow. On one hand I'm saddened and on another, I'm glad that you guys finally know what this is, and that there is a way to try to treat it. I'm still saddened, but at least hopeful that the treatments will work and that that he will be able to be back to feeling like himself again.
it sounds very intimidating, not to mention scary and you can be assured that only the best thoughts and vibes will be going your way!
I also hope that the treatments can be done in SJ. It's very stressful to travel for that kind of treatment - on that kind of a schedule, plus deal with having a young family in school, plus still wanting ot continue work, not to mention this is headinging into rougher travel time of year over the winter.
I know there's nothing I can personally do to help other than to support and send you the best prayers and thoughts your way. But, if there is anything myself or Van can do, simply say the words.
Best of luck and keep us posted!!!
*HUGS*
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you and gary are both in my thoughts, let me know if there is anything at all i can do.
Joanne, I'm so glad you both have some answers now. Gary is continuing to be in my prayers.
Next time you come down with Gary why don't we get together. That'll give the girls a chance to meet me as well. Then at some point if you're down here and you & Gary would like some time alone or if you just would like to spend some time looking after him after a treatment then I surely wouldn't mind taking them on an adventure to the park or something of the like for a few hrs. Or if you would like to have a meal at a dinner table in a home type place rather than at a restaurant or in a hotel room, let us know! We very much love to cook and have company, but don't often get the opportunity. Just let us know a day or 2 ahead so we can plan a menu. lol
Here's hoping though that Gary won't have to travel to Halifax and will be able to stay in the comfort of your home.
Answers are good. Stressful because they exist at all. But good because the journey at least has a destination and a map to get there.
*hugs*
At least there are options, and a supportive family is as helpful as any medical treatment (at least in my experience).
J, I'll be praying hard for your family, and please, please if you need anything just know I'm here!
Thanks for your comments! I really appreciate it.
I'm here for ANYTHING at all, don't think twice about asking! 'nuff said!
I'm praying for you guys. Hope they can get it arranged at the Regional.
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