Thursday, July 10, 2008

Define Normal?

Well, we had good news today. Eva's catecholamines were normal!

What does that mean? Well, the tumor that is growing is not affecting her at this time.

What does that mean? Well, it means that we are not under the gun to make any decisions about her care.

So, the plan is to still go to MD Anderson for a second opinion. After speaking to several physicians throughout the day, they all agree with the current plan that our doctors are recommending, the sit and wait plan.

They all did recommend, however, that we consider chemo as an option. So, of course, we have NO idea what we are going to do right now.

As most of you know, I am well aware of what chemo does to the body, having done it already myself. This is not my first preference for Eva.

Of course, my first preference is to make sure that we do whatever we need to do to make sure she is still here five years from now. But, if we can avoid putting her through chemo, I sure would hope that we can.

I'm doing ok today. Seem to be a bit gloomy for someone who just learned that her daughter had normal test results. I think it is all the unknown that is getting to me. Do we do chemo? do we do surgery? do we just wait? No one has any clear answers and that is just killing me.

Today, in my boot camp, I had a complete breakdown. I think too much exercise plus too much stress = fall apart. I'll keep the exercise but hopefully lose the stress.

Anyway, that's it. More to come.

10 comments:

Vickie said...

Have you considered a consult with Dr. Heidi Russell at Texas Children's when you are down in the Houston Medical Center. She is a top clinical specialist in NB in the country.

VB

Goodnight, Mom said...

Vickie,

No can do with insurance. MD Anderson is on Jon's insurance. I mean, who knows where it will lead but for now, we have to stay in the insurance confines.

Thanks for the suggestion, though, I'll keep it in my pocket should I need it!

-K

Anonymous said...

Don't forget that St Jude's is almost free, it might be worth an opinion there too.

Good Luck
Ann

Goodnight, Mom said...

Thanks, Ann! Will keep it in mind!!!

Vicki G. said...

Keep the faith Kristi! Eva is being prayed for by hundreds of people. She is also still on my congregation's prayer list and her name is announced with those needing healing at every service. I hope you are able to enjoy your weekend. Lots of love, Vicki

Anonymous said...

Kristi,
I just want to tell you that MD Anderson is one of the foremost hospitals specializing in cancer treatments, and with two friends that have recently experienced nothing short of miracles there, I know Eva will get the most amazing care.
You are doing the right thing to fight for the best answers and the best treatment now for Eva. I pray all God's blessings for you guys!

Anonymous said...

of course you're gloomy. even though "normal" is good, you have a lot of big decisions and heavy thoughts surrounding you right now. it's OK to be a little glum.

it's great that you broke down during boot camp. not that it's good that there's a reason to break down but good that you were able to let some of it out.

thanks for sharing this all with us. pain is so often a very private thing. hope is kept close sometimes, too. you're showing us both and it makes the world seem more human.

i'm thinking of you all. i know how stressed i am about my mom. i can't imagine it being a child. whatever you do is the right thing.

you're loved by many. even strangers. (or at least a strange writer/artist lady in the northeast)

Dad 2 eight said...

Bink:
I have a picture of Little Eva as my screen saver. Everytime I look at her, she gets a prayer from me. You are the greatest Mom and the healing power of your love will see her through.

Anonymous said...

Thanks for all the updates. I can't imagine how hard this must be to go through. I think it's good that you 1) went to boot camp, and 2) broke down in boot camp! It's not good to keep all that stuff inside, and sometimes physical release can be so healing. We are thinking of Eva constantly and wish you smooth and easier sailing in the coming months. It's good to know you have time on your side and can take some of it to look at all the options and make the best decision you can. Hugs to all!

Debbie said...

Came across your site tonight and related to so much of what you say! I'll be praying for Eva and the whole family. BTW-I love your sense of humor, I had to read your whole blog! LOL

Debbie (Connor's Mama)
http:/iwillliftmyeyesconnorkhoury.blogspot.com/