Results are back

Hi again. Well. I got my CT results and PFT (pulmonary function tests). Basically - I kick serious butt!!! My PFT's are all greater than 100% for someone my age!! Yahoo. I have had a total of 6 wedge resections and my surgeon said the CT showed that my right lower lobe tumor has grown a tiny bit - it is now cutting off a little bit of air space in that region. BUT - I still have FULL pulmonary status!!!! Yea, check me out. He said the CT is otherwise great. No other lesions anywhere. He thinks my next surgery he will only have to remove 2/3 of my right lung (I can't believe I am actually happy about this). AND - after my surgery I should have >70% PFT's. I should still be able to work out!! I will feel a little short of breath when I run. I will be able to feel a difference, but I can do EVERYTHING!

Unfortunately, (always some badness in my cancer world) one of the margins on my left lung met was positive. BUT - he said he wouldn't do anything differently. He used 2 sets of staples on either side of the incision and that he belives he got good margins. There are 5mm of tissue that cannot be examined because of the staples. Now, we just watch and wait. Still need scans every 3-4 months - no more frequently than normal. He said if it comes back - he can operate again and take out more left lung. EEK!!

In summary, I feel great. I am going back to work for 2 weeks (because I feel so good). I have my next surgery on 4/4/06. Gulp. Please make sure to send prayers and good vibes on 4/4.

Thanks to all of you. I hope everyone is winning their battles; step by step.

love, jana