Chemo and PET Scan

The results from the octreotide scan did not show that Dawn's cancer began in her lungs, as the oncologist suspected. So, today she had a PET scan, which you can read about by clicking here.

This is being done to hopefully find out exactly what the primary source of the cancer is, as it apparently does not originate in the liver, but has simply spread there.

Additionally, she had her 3rd consecutive day of chemotherapy, and will now be off for two weeks. We have been told to expect her to be very tired within a few days, as almost all chemotherapy patients experience intense fatigue that is not helped by sleeping more hours.

Again, Dawn wanted me to be sure to thank everyone for the continued support and love she has been the recipient of since this all has unfolded.

Kevin

Chemotherapy Day 1

I just wanted everyone to know that Dawn had her first administration of chemotherapy today.  She was (of course) brave and strong, and is now resting up.   She will be having more chemo tomorrow and Thursday, and then have two weeks off.  Below is a photo I took of her during her treatment.

Thank you all for your well-wishes and everything you have all done to support Dawn during this time.  I know it means a lot to her.

Kevin

Fell asleep during chemo treatment #1 ~ while listening to spa/relaxation music

Easter 2011

Where to begin...

On Wednesday April 6th, I made an appointment with the doctor to check out some pressure I had been feeling just below my right rib cage.  I went into the 10am appointment assuming (at worst) it might be an ulcer, and at 5pm I was told after an ultrasound and blood work that I had "multiple masses in my liver."

The next day an MRI was scheduled, the day after that, a liver biopsy.  On Wednesday, April 13th I was diagnosed with an extremely rare metastatic cancer: neuroendocrine tumor.  Since that day, I have been through another MRI, a CAT scan, three days of octreotide scans, all to try and find where the primary tumor that spread to the liver is located.

I have met with an oncologist at Northwestern and one at University of Chicago.  The origin of the primary tumor is suspected to be the lung, but is unknown as of now.  What is known is that the cancer has spread to my liver, and that I need chemotherapy right away.  It begins this Tuesday.

In two short weeks I have had a lot to wrap my mind around.  I am blessed with a supportive and loving family (as well as precious friends) who are taking care of me every step of the way.

As my doctor said, "the boys will get you through this."

Love,
Dawn Berlynn

Live Good & Keep Believing

At hospital - waiting to meet with the oncologist.

At hospital - prior to octreotide scan

Being a Survivor

"I have lived, laughed, loved and lost.
 I have cried, mourned and grieved,
 hoped, prayed, and healed.
 I have found strength and true beauty.
 I am a survivor."
                            -author unknown