How about some good news?

"Sometimes life hands you a hell sandwich", I would like to send it back!

It has has been 5 weeks since I was released from UW hospital, completing my first full course of IL 2 treatment. Today, I feel very good, almost back to "normal." I have been back to work for 2 weeks now. We have been able to enjoy time with our friends and family. It seems the weekends are filled with too much fun stuff! I guess that isn't really possible.

Wednesday I had my follow up PET/CT scan and yesterday we met with my oncologist to discuss the findings.

I think that we have received the best possible news. These are statements from the radiologist report comparing my PET/CT scan from 9/11 to that of 12/11. "The hyper metabolic lesions compatible with metastatic malignant melanoma have improved both in size and metabolism. Most of the the preexisting lesions are no longer detectable on PET. There is no definite lymph node activity currently."

So....the IL 2 worked! As awful as it was, thanks goodness, it worked! It continues to work now, according to Dr. Margolin. The plan at this time is to have another PET/CT scan in 30 days. At that point, she may recommend another round of IL 2, depending on the scan. I'm not out of the woods, but I'm not as deep in as I was.

So, despite the fact that we woke up to a nearly flooded mudroom because our washer finally gave up, both Kelly and I continue to feel so fortunate, for everything. Perspective. We have each other, our wonderful families and so many great friends. Thank you for your support and encouragement!

Heather

Normalcy?

I started back to work this week. I thought I would be more tired than I actually was. It is nice to have a purpose,to be useful.
I also tried to start exercising this week. It's coming along slowly. I have lost so much muscle and aerobic capacity. I'll get it back! I'm going try to run tomorrow. I hope I don't pass out!
I will have follow up PET scan on 12/14. I will find out the results on 12/16. Depending on the results, my doctors may reccomend that I repeat the IL 2 treatment, or start some other kind of treatment. It just depends on the scan.
For now, I am so happy to feel well. Happy that it looks like I will be home for the holidays! Happy that I get to spend time with Kelly, my friends, and my family. I have so many wonderful people in my life. That's worth a lot!