Thursday, February 28, 2008

Thursday Feb., 28

We saw Bert tonight and were really uplifted to see how well he is doing. He came through the surgery beautifully and really seems like his old self. We hope that will be typical of his progress from now on.

Liz provided the following information details:

Diagnosis: Glioblastoma

Tumor was completely removed by the surgeon, but cells can remain and this cancer comes back without treatment.

Tumor is primary; it didn't come from somewhere else in the body and it will not spread to other places.

The standard course of treatment is radiation for 6 weeks and chemo by pill for one year. Scans every 2-3 months to check for recurrence. We have our preliminary appointment with the oncologist Friday and hope to start radiation next week.

We may participate in a clinical trial available at Piedmont Hospital, studying the effectiveness of a higher dose of the chemo drug.

Positives: Bert's age, total removal of the tumor, awesome recovery from surgery, chemo drug is well-tolerated as far as side effects, as is radiation (easier when done on the head than other areas of the body), tumor was in a part of the brain that does not affect bodily functions and is easily accessible.

2 comments:

Christy Bandy said...

Bert,
This is Rev. Christy Bandy the pastor of the Millen United Methodist Church. I just want you to know that we will continue to lift you up in prayer and do already thank God for the initial healing through surgery God has done. Keep strong in your faith and know you are supported by prayers of God's people. Pastor Christy

Pat Chaconas Dumon said...

Chuck, GREAT news! We'll of course continue hoping for the best. Please pinch Lizzie's cheeks for me and wish her well. Bob and Pat