Hi folks,
Today I had my latest MRI and I’m glad to say it reflects some reduced swelling in the areas that previously showed contrast indicating growth of cancer cells. This improvement was unexpected by Dr. McGranahan, perhaps it reflects the positive side of the Regorafenib chemo medication which my pancreas eventually rejected, it’s hard to say. Anyhow the shrinking is good news, BUT know that the reduced swelling is temporary — it may last a month or a year, which is hard to predict. Time will tell.
Perhaps more meaningful and sad, yesterday was my last skateboard session. Due to my recent pancreatitis and clots in my lungs I now take blood thinner which makes skateboarding too risky since a fall might create non-stop bleeding. Thankfully I’ll be able to continue skating the safer “long board” on sidewalks, but rolling through the large bowls is now just a sweet memory.
Above all, however, is some significant pancreas news. For my pancreas to be healthy my blood’s Lipase value needs to be 70 or less – in July when I was taking the Regorafenib chemotherapy the Lipase value reached 278 during my terrible pancreatitis. Thankfully last week the Lipase had reduced to 69, and today it measured at 44! So donuts and chocolate chip cookies are FINALLY allowed again 🙂
And finally, know I’m AMAZINGLY GRATEFUL for all the donations for the Run of Hope and my Team Ken which already has 13 members! This all supports Seattle Children’s Hospital’s pediatric brain tumor research, a cause that reaches my heart deeply. If you’d like to donate, click here.
Be well and enjoy a cookie or two!
Ken