What Happens Now?
Now that the sirtex procedure (that is, the radioactive spheres they injected into my liver) is over, people have been asking when I’ll find out “if it worked.”
As I understand it, it takes about 30 days for these little spheres, or beads, to do their thing. The radioactive half-life is about 60 hours, which means that right now the radioactivity is already about 1/32nd of what it once. By day 30, the radioactivity will essentially be gone.
At that point, i.e., in the latter part of July, I’ll be heading to Houston once again. I’ll do the scans, give the blood, speak with the doctors and find out where we stand. Did the spheres improve the status of my liver? What happened with the lungs in the meantime? Are there any other areas of concern?
Stay tuned for the answer to these and other questions on the next episode of One Life to Liver.
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Comments
Tom died in December of 2006 – of cancer, a rare kind where we made dozens of trips to Houston over 4 1/2 years – I wasn’t sure I could read your story…I’ve kept it here by my computer for several months now, almost afraid to go into the website…it has brought back lots of memories, all kinds. Thank you for being willing to share.
Jim, I rejoiced that you made it long enough to see Maddie graduate. I now look forward to seeing you watch Ford walk as well and to see them all grow old and enjoy your future grandchildren. You have been such an inspiration and living testimony to so many.
I have shared some of your poetry with my English classes at Moore High School. You are blessing future writers with your writing! I will keep LeAnn, Maddie, Ford, and of course, you in my prayers!
Jim,
Haven’t heard much from you lately; hope you are ok! Lots of prayers and well wishes headed your way!!!
Jim, prayers sent your way from Western Oklahoma. I also
have been wondering how the waves are in your life lately.
Realize they go up and down.
Waiting with baited breath for the next exciting episode of this soap opera!