I think I will stick around for awhile!

Hello Everyone,

I thought I'd drop by with words of encouragement. I know when I read Phrannie's post, it encouraged me! (I'm so very happy for you, Phrannie). And Matt and others were so supportive on this site. I want to give back.

It's been a 14 months since my surgery (previous posts are here somewhere) I had radiation twice- oh, what fun- then my cancer was found to have spread. Nightmare. Back to hospital falling, unable to see or walk, seizures, prior to my 2nd radiation and Opdivo. I said my tearful goodbyes to the people that I loved and was grateful for a full life and the opportunity to tell them that I loved them one last time.

But I didn't die!! I started radiation again and then Opdivo; my eyesight is much improved, my dizziness improved, I walked initially only with assistance and great difficulty huffing and puffing, and just last night was able to do close to 30 city blocks at a good clip with my daughter, small dog, and under my own steam. I feel so much better every week- oh, how I had forgotten what that felt like. And I am once again thinking that I might make it back to the gym.

Furthermore, I have gained wt and am able to once again taste my food, have saliva and enjoy a big improvement in my swallowing. And I am drug free except for Synthroid.I do have permanent deficits but considering what I have been through I am lucky to be alive and will happily live c these.

My scan to see if the Opdivo is working is in a couple of weeks. But my doc tells me that I am doing too well for it not be conferring some benefit. How much, remains to be seen.

Good luck everyone, for those just beginning the journey, there really are better days ahead for many of you.