Final Tests Are Back

We met with Rachel's oncologist last week to review the results of her latest testing. The results were good... her CT Scan to measure mass/tumors was negative and her PET Scan to measure metabolic activity or "glowing" in cells was nearly negative. It was clear in all of her lymph nodes and previously infected areas, but there was a small "glow" in her upper right lung. The tests showed no mass there and the doctors feel it is "residue" from her recent radiation treatments. They expect it to go away in a month or two and we'll test her again in August. So that was a pretty good result!!

Rachel has resumed her longer workouts and working at Girard Hospital and her stamina is increasing daily. The doctors were impressed that she is doing 45 minute workouts already. Also, her hair is coming back... it's kind of a "Sinead O'Connor" style now.. not quite ready to burn the wig... but getting close.

Again... our family cannot express our thanks enough for all the thoughts and prayers for Rachel. We will never be able to repay your kindness....

Final Tests This Week

Rach had her follow up tests  this week.... on Monday she had a "Muga" test which looks at her heart function. This was especially worrisome during the final weeks of her chemo when her heart rate became high during rest and extremely high during activity. We are hoping that was just a side effect and  that her heart function returned to normal.

On Wednesday she had another "PET" scan which is a radio active dye test to look for deformed cells in her body. This is the test that actually "finds" suspect cancer cells. In August it showed her cancer in two areas.... In December following her chemo it showed those cells were gone. We are hoping that will be the results again.

We meet with the oncologist next week to discuss the results....  We are praying that this is over and we'll move on!

Rach continues with school and has increased her hours working in the Emergency Room at the Girard Hospital. You wouldn't know we've been through all of this by watching her....

Again... your thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated!