karenulijohn

We received the best news ever yesterday during our visit with Dr. Graves.  We were directed into his office, and after shaking hands all round, and his commenting on how good Harvey looked, he sat down and began to interpret the pathology report relating to Harvey’s surgery.  He explained that the specimen showed features consistent with pre-operative treatment of chemotherapy and radiation, including ulceration and regression.  There was a small focus of residual adenocarcinoma, consisting of a single gland measuring less than 1.0 mm.  These findings correspond to a Tumor Regression Grade of 1.   TRG 1 was defined as complete regression (=fibrosis without detectable tissue of tumor).  Translating that into layman’s terms, He Is Cured!!!  Dr. Graves said that Harvey’s response to the radiation/chemo regimen was remarkable, and his recovery from the surgery is phenomenal.  He must have asked Harvey two or three times if he was really 80 years old.  He then said, “I ought to use you as my Poster Child.”  Dr. Graves checked the incisions and commented that he could eat whatever he wants, being aware that, if it doesn’t want to go down, stop eating it.  He even suggested having a glass of wine to celebrate.  The only follow up is a CAT scan four months hence.  Apart from that, Dr. Graves wished us a Happy Christmas with hand shakes all round.

As we walked out into the hallway, we embraced and I got tearful.  I don’t think either of us was consciously awaiting the pathology report, but, nonetheless, we were relieved and elated.  We made our way to the car, and once on the road, put in a call to our daughter, Dawn.  Since it was her birthday yesterday, we were excited to give her this special gift.  As we explained the findings, I could hear in her voice that she was tearful also.  This has been a stressful time for all of us, and the relief that we feel is immeasurable.  We have so much to be thankful for this season, mainly family and friends who have kept us close in their thoughts and prayers.  How can we say “Thank You” enough?  Your cards and phone calls have inspired and encouraged us so that we were able to “keep it together.”

Our job now is to get back to normal.  That means eating properly and getting some exercise, and socializing a little bit more each day.  On our way home yesterday, we stopped at the Waffle Barn, our favorite “go to” restaurant, and had a great big waffle each, smothered in butter and syrup.  Harvey ate almost every bit of it, and I felt so proud of him.  Last night for dinner, he made it through a bowl of spaghetti.  His weight bottomed out last week at 163 lbs.  As of this morning, it is 165, which is the trajectory that we want.  I am determined to get my “chubby hubby” back!