CAT Scan and other updates

I had a CT scan this morning. That was interesting because I asked the tech to explain the process and result to me, and she showed me the scan images, with a caveat that she couldn't diagnose -  only show. It was cool to see a 3-d flythrough of my chest. Like a sightseeing tour, we flew through my innards, and she identified all of the major organs and features, avoiding any mention of anomalous. That was fun. 

Next, after coffee (because I had to skip it for the CT - grrrr) we went to the doc. He said that the new results showed the tumor at 4.6 x 2.6cm. this is an 86% shrinkage from the original mass. The previous CT showed a 75% from when the tumor was first identified. So it's shrinking at a slower rate.  Apparently, that's the norm. I learned that complete disappearance of the tumor isn't something that I should expect, instead, we'll watch it shrink to a manageable size, and then zap it with radiation to eliminate any active cells. I'm excited about the idea of 'zapping' something inside me. 

At any rate, I found that I can't expect the lesions to just 'go away'. Instead we'll kill them back as far as they'll go with the chemo, and then work from there.

On the bright side, there will be no dose increase in this round. I will still be getting the lumbar puncture, however. 

Another bright side - I was able to go for a run this afternoon. My red blood cells must be back up, because 3 miles was easy. My last couple of attempts have ended in lots of walking to make it home. This time, I ran the whole way. Sure it's not my normal 5 miler, but I'm stoked anyway.

I kegged the oatmeal stout tonight. I'll set the keg to carbonate while I'm away. Initial tastings prove positive. I think it'll be good - maybe a little light on the body.

I go back to the hospital on Friday, so thanks in advance for your prayers, love, help and friendship. I do appreciate it. I'll let you know how it goes :)