The glioblastoma wife-5

As with most things in life, we often find good and bad.

Today will be about the good.

When I share my feelings about our new situation, I know it can be hard for you to read.

So many people do not know what to say, and I completely understand. I do.

While we hope to help others by sharing Bruce’s story, writing is also my therapy.

Today’s post will not be difficult to read.

Yesterday, we rode the wave of optimism.

I crashed today, but only due to sheer relief. Emotions are really heavy.

Bruce’s MRI results were wonderful; he had an excellent response to the treatment.

The “tumor bed” where the tumor was located shrank by at least half.

(Hmmmm. Is it shrink, shrank, or shrunk? Shrinked? I had to look it up.)

This means normal, healthy brain tissue can now wiggle its way back to its original position.

There is no more pressure on the brain, and no evidence of a “brain bleed.”

The scan looked “normal.”

There is no evidence of any new growth, or migration of previous spots.

The radiation oncologist (RO) told us about one spot he’s been watching since October.

Since then, the spot grew. It was pretty small before, but on Friday’s MRI, it had grown.

We were prepared for just this phenomenon. The RO called it “pseudo progression.”

This means that the spot grew as a result of the treatment but then died. This is called “radiation necrosis.” Necrosis means tissue death.

I specifically asked him if he was concerned at all about this spot. Without a pause, he said emphatically “no.”

I specifically asked him what dies when they talk about necrosis. He said “tumor.”

We see the neuro oncologist (NO) tomorrow; he’s the doctor in charge of Bruce’s treatment from here on out.

He will likely review the next steps, meaning Phase 3 of treatment. Phase 1 was surgery, radiation and chemo, and Phase 2 was a one month break after treatment stops.

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I’m really, really tired.

I am also unbelievably happy.

Life. Is. Good.

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Blessings and thank you for reading. ❤