Ups and Downs

Friday, November 4

Despite the warmest welcome and hospitality of Linda, Chris, Susan and Manfred and the timely heartfelt wishes from our dearest friends, Monday and Tuesday past were most difficult days for Laurie and me!

We departed Eugene early morning for OHSU to address the nagging, worrisome PSA rise. Our two days were packed with lengthy imaging sessions, an early morning consultation with Dr. Beer, a follow-up set of blood tests, the filling of a new prescription, a debriefing lunch and a tense wait for blood test results. By Tuesday evening we were exhausted!

The results were mixed, which, in my opinion, keeps me in the ‘interesting medical case’ category. The imaging indicated a further decrease in the visible liver lesions (-67%). Wow!  However, the PSA continues to rise (+37% in only 5 days). Our healing team is concerned but does not seem to have an explanation. Multiple biological hypotheses have been proposed; most of which elude my full understanding.

We left OHSU with a slightly revised treatment plan – continue with current hormone injections (Eligard, every 3 months), add a secondary hormone oral drug (Bicalutamide, daily), get a second opinion at UCSF in two weeks and see Dr. Beer in a month. Conspicuously missing was a recommendation for a second round of chemotherapy.

Laurie and I walked away from the emotional ups and downs exhausted! We also walked away reminded of the seriousness of my initial diagnosis and how western medical science does not fully understand nor have a cure my disease. Finally, we walked away, once again, extremely grateful for the super strong support coming from all our friends.

Physically, I am feeling as good as I’ve ever felt over the past 6 months. Thus, I must say: “………….What more can I ask for?”

Double Rainbow Blessings sent from Laurie in Ashland!
!THANK YOU!