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5/30/06

The PET scan result was not too bad. Lungs, kidneys, and diaphragm are all clear. Even though the oncologist cannot guarantee 100% accuracy because of the PET resolution, he assumes that my cancer is localized within the esophagus.

Even though the surgeon with whom we met last Wednesday was planning to conduct another endoscopy on Thursday, we decided to cancel it in order to have a second opinion before that. According to the oncologist, the surgeon who will operate has to do the endosocopy; all surgeons want to know the texture and character of the tumor before the actual operation.

My oncologist is going to arrange the doctor for the second opinion.

We still have to wait to know whether surgery, or chemotherapy and X ray treatment is first, because even though my cancer is localized nicely, it is quite large (nearly 5 cm in diameter.)

This news was the first good news since 5/11 when the GI specialist found my tumor, and I am very grateful about the result.

My appointment was at 4:00, and I wanted to spend the time before positively. At my church, a hematologist who survived two difficult cancer experiences talked about hope two weeks ago. I went to the church and rented a CD. In the CD the hematologist talked about how to survive the stress of cancer from a mind and body connection viewpoint. According to him, there are 5 things you have to do when facing the difficulty:

1) Live as normally as possible. Do not make milestones such as making it to Christmas. He has seen people fade after accomplishing their goals, or suffering from depression.
2) Do something new.
3) Plan powerful conversations with people you care about.
4) Extend help to others.
5) Be courageous and try new kinds of treatment.

His suggestion was very practical and positive, and I could take my mind away from worrying about going to find the PET result. When I arrived at the clinic, my pulse was a healthy 68, and the place looked much friendlier. There is definitely a strong tie between mind and body.