There is cause to give you an update on the status of Patrick’s medical condition. Two days ago, Patrick and I went to see the oncologist to learn the results of the PET scan that was performed last Wednesday, 15 September. The previous scan on 17 June revealed no abnormalities. Best-case scenario was that the radiation therapy and chemotherapy, which he endured from February through May, killed all the cancer. Both Patrick and I were feeling quite hopeful the results of this latest scan would reveal the same.
Just a week ago, the gastroenterologist performed day surgery to scope Patrick’s esophagus. Afterwards, he reported the inside looked normal, almost as if no disease had ever been present. Upon hearing this, I burst out crying tears of joy. So, we really expected to learn more good news: the PET scan would confirm the cancer was gone.
With my heart filled with immeasurable grief, I share the dreadful news that the cancer has metastasized, which means it has spread and it is no longer just contained inside the tumor surrounding the outside of his esophagus. Active cancer was found in a lymph node positioned against his trachea (windpipe), another an inch away near his heart sac, and a third on the backside of the tumor very close to his spine. The cancer has also invaded vertebrae of his thoracic spine, (the area between his shoulder blades.) We were told esophageal cancer is a very fast-growing cancer, and once it spreads to bones, as it now has to his spine, it is incurable. The oncologist speculates Patrick might live another nine months.
The doctor told us even though great strides have been achieved in curing many types of cancer, none have been realized for esophageal cancer. For instance, Lance Armstrong had testicular cancer, which had spread throughout his body and even to his brain. The drugs used to treat that type of cancer provide a very effective cure, 95 percent of the time. One of the drugs used in the standard of care for treating esophageal cancer, 5-fu, was patented in 1957 and has been the lead drug for 40-years since.
The only real option available from Western medicine from this point forward is narcotics to manage pain. Another round of chemo, at best, might slow the spread of the disease, but cannot stop it from progressing. Also, the first round of radiation and chemo left Patrick with severe damage to his lungs and the ability for his bone marrow to replenish blood cells. We are told any amount of radiation to his chest would be lethal and therefore, not an option.
We spoke with the oncologist about (and she is okay with) Patrick wanting to pursue wholistic health care options, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine practices and herbal remedies.
Patrick is concerned, upon hearing the news of his current prognosis, many of you may “feel more upset than necessary.” He has asked that I convey to you the following. He is utterly convinced this is not his “time to go,” and steadfastly remains committed to maintaining a positive outlook. He has every intention of recovering from this disease, and, his unwavering faith provides a constant source of strength.
Patrick is, and always will be, my greatest earthly blessing. And, I am trying very hard to be brave, reflect his optimism, and convince myself I have no reason to feel terrified.
