Good News; No, Great News!

Last Friday I went in for my CT Scan prior to my third treatment, which took place on Monday, April 12. Dr. Murphy spent a few minutes with me looking at the scan and said he would see me on Monday and that I could expect a good report based on what he could see. Well, l left on Friday, trying to interpret what would a good report would be exactly.

Fast forward to Monday morning, April 12, the morning of my third chemo treatment. Patti and I went into the exam room where they access my port and then waited for the doctor to come in. Dr. Murphy came in holding two pieces of paper which I assumed was the report. He began by telling me that in the scan he had discovered I had a small kidney stone (which was news to me), some calcification in the aorta (also news to me), spinal canal stenosis (which was not news to me), and then the biggie, no evidence of lymphoma (which was the best news I have had in months). Well, Patti and I were somewhat stunned for a moment, to say the least! No evidence of lymphoma, after two treatments.

So I went into high gear with the next question, wondering if this meant I was finished with chemo. No, I have to finish the protocol (three more treatments to go). After treatment four and before treatment five, I will have another nuclear PET Scan. Dr. Murphy said that if no cancer appears at that time there would be a good chance that I will never have to deal with this again.

While I am grateful for a gifted and dedicated physician, I am even more grateful for the Great Physician. I believe that what is happening in my life today is the result of the grace of God and an army of prayer warriors around the world. We have been carried by your prayers, love, and support. I want to ask you to not stop praying at this point. All the news is good, but let’s keep praying until we cross the finish line. Please know that God’s mercy is renewing us every morning. To God by the glory!

Rick