Horatio update: Post radiation results in

[TaraF]

I've been MIA here for a few month's as I've been ill. Just feeling really nauseated, a lot of pressure in my head, increased seizures, dealing with my trigeminal neuralgia. All of the "new normals" of having had evicted Horatio (my brain tumour) in Oct 2010. Well with my MRI coming up a few weeks ago my Drs were all "hang on, you'll see if it's your head soon enough". Well we saw. I had my Oncology appointment today and indeed my tumour is back and growing. Well isn't that a kick in the junk.

My oncologist said the good news is that it doesn't appear aggressive. Comparing my scans from 2010 and now it doesn't appear like it's spreading or growing at an excessive rate, it's just getting large and starting to affect my daily living again. So the game plan is to refer me back to the original neuro-surgeon I had to see if he'll do another craniotomy. If so the treatment plan is as follows: Craniotomy, Radiation, Chemotherapy.

Which means I'll be back at Hamilton General for my surgery (hey Koala, you should visit me!) lol. I'm trying to see the positives in the situation. The fact it isn't aggressive. The fact it appears operable, at least as of now. The fact that I've been through brain surgery already so I know what to expect. Though I have to admit the Radiation and Chemotherapy is kinda spooking me.

[GoJays]

I'm so sorry Tara

[Natalka]

Though it's nice to see you back here, Tara - I'm so very sorry about what's happening with you.

Sending you prayers and most positive thoughts to kick Horatio's arse!

[anisa]

Damn him

[i_forget]

So sorry Tara.

[TaraF]

Thanks guys, I wish I could come back here spreading good cheer. I've been poking through some of the posts in the forums and it seems this summer hasn't been the nicest for some of those here at SC. What's up with that?!

As for me, I will just charge ahead. It is what it is and it has to be done. At least this time (unlike the last) we know what we are dealing with, so that makes things a bit easier to digest. But again we play the waiting game. Consults, more MRI's, and hopefully a surgery date that is soon. Though I gotta stop having brain surgery before Christmas. lol

The one thing pointed out to me is that my particular tumour (Oligoastrocytoma) has an 80% recurrence rate within 3-5 years of resection, radiation and chemotherapy. I only had the resection and I had almost 4 before it came back, so I "got" an extra 4 years without having to deal with the effects of radiation to the brain and chemo to the body. I guess you just have to look at the positives.

[Patty Smyth]

You have no idea how upset I was to read this

F.U. Horatio

[Shwa Girl]

I guess you just have to look at the positives.

[ninna]

So sorry to hear about the recurrence; wishing you strength and sending you prayers and hugs.

[Skippy]

Glad you are back but so sorry to hear the tumor is too. Try and keep up the positive attitude.
Prayer offered on your behalf.

[DaveP]

Hugs from Cape Breton Tara, stay strong.

[MortgageQueen]

Wow Tara. That truly sucks. Not fair at all, I know. You're right though. There's still lot of positives and having a fighting spirit makes a big difference. (and a generous serving of Stubborness!
I'm curious. Why the chemo/radiation if the resection apparently had pretty decent success last time?
You keep your chin up my dear. SCer's are right behind you cheering you on!

[walkonby]

Tara, I so admire your attitude and outlook ( seeing the positives) I know you will pull yourself through this once again, and have the surgeon insert a clear sign for Horatio that reads No Vacancy...or Get Lost! ((hugs and prayers for you!))

[Kitty77]

Hugs, Tara! Take care!

[TaraF]

Patty you don't know how my heart sank when I saw my Oncologist come in, normally it is some other team member to bring the good news. "The Big Guy" never comes in, unless it's bad news.

MQ, my Oncologist said that no matter how much of the tumour they are successful at removing they will always leave cancer cells behind so to have the best chance at not recurring they should try radiation & chemo. The first time around I was just told that since they were able to get most of it and it wasn't a fast growing tumour why subject my body to radiation and chemo at that time. Really I kind of knew I'd just be "buying time", just wish it was more time before having to do it. And hoping I'd be "one of the lucky ones", but alas I wasn't. I am stubborn though. That's the Taurus in me.

Oh walks lol As long as the surgeon sticks it to him good this time!