Surveillance

 

I've had three CT and one PET scan in the last six months and they all show a tumour near my left pelvis that is about 18mm x 15mm.

I met with Dr. Noonan and one of her residents today, and we talked about where I am and what's on deck for this E-Ticket ride of mine.

The oncologists and the radiologists all had a star chamber consult about my case, and their decision was for me to enter "three month surveillance". The tumour appears to be stable, and so something is happening (or not happening) - whether it's the immunotherapy (nivolumab for a year, and then four rounds of pembrolizumab), or it's the four rounds of EV (entfortimab vedotin). Or it could be my dazzling personality.

The radiation people said they won't do anything unless they see a change in the tumour (grows). 

The oncologists say that further immunotherapy is off the books because of the heart damage (myocarditis). They don't want to put me back on systemic therapy until there's a reason to do so. If the cancer metastasises beyond where it is now, EV is the chemo/drug of choice.

So for now, I'm feeling quite good being off all the drugs (with the exception of prednisone, which I'm currently weaning off). My energy is coming back, and one day soon I'll try another bike ride. 

PS: Just got the call, and my next CT is scheduled for Jan 28/2026. Let's hope it's clear sailing till then.