We saw Dr. Z today, and got to discuss the CT results, along with other clinical findings and improvements in Donnie’s condition.  The CT results showed that the pancreatic tumor has shrunk significantly.  It’s original size in December was 3.2 cm x 2.3 cm.  Currently the size is 1.7 cm x 1.6 cm.  Also, the tumors that were seen in the abdomen (metastases) were not seen on the current CT scan.  This COULD mean they have shrunk significantly, or they might not be there, but it is difficult to determine (that’s just the way it is with CT scans).  So, here is the skinny:

The primary tumor has shrunk, and Dr. Z is happy about that (we are too!).  Dr. Z does not “think” at this point that surgery will be an option.  However, Dr. Z will be presenting Donnie’s case to the tumor board (a group of experienced oncology physicians and surgeons) for their most recent opinion about the possibility of surgery in Donnie’s future.  We will find out the opinion of the tumor board in a couple of weeks.

In the meantime, Donnie will continue receiving the chemotherapy he has been receiving that has been working for him (Abraxane and Gemzar).  Per Dr. Z, the chemo cannot cure pancreatic cancer, and Donnie cannot take this chemo forever (it has side effects down the road that will be intolerable).   When this happens, we will discuss with Dr. Z what other medical options might be available for Donnie.  So . . . we still live each day to the fullest, not knowing what the future holds, and trust in the Lord!

Donnie continues to slowly wean his medications for pain and nausea, and we will continue to do that, as long as he feels good.  He is awake more, has more stamina, weighs 174 pounds, and enjoys our simple life surrounded by family and friends.

All of this news is what we anticipated hearing.  We are grateful for the honesty of Dr. Z, and the effective medications Donnie is currently on.    We praise God for Donnie’s miraculous turn around since December and January, when we thought we might lose him.  We are grateful for wonderful days visiting with family and friends, enjoying grand babies that make us smile like no one else in this world, walking in the neighborhood hand-in-hand enjoying outside, and hanging out poolside and at the beach.  As Donnie said this week, he is really very content.  Hearing him say that makes me very, very happy.

This past weekend we had the privilege of having a surprise 50th birthday party for Donnie’s baby brother, Rodger.  It’s always simply wonderful to be together with your best friends . . . your family!!!!  I snapped a picture of Donnie’s Mom and all her children 🙂

Thank you all for your diligent prayers and encouragement on Donnie’s behalf!  It is making all the difference!  Although we are doing the best with man-contrived medication and treatment, putting all the “thinking heads” together, paying attention to changes and improvements, tweaking medications, and trying to live as normal a life as possible through this, the true healer, our God, is the one factor we cannot underestimate!!  We are encouraged by His love for us, and give Him the glory for Donnie’s improvement!!

Love,  Donnie & Tina