Since mentioning the "R" word (Remission), I have noticed a very stiff decline in the number of followers of the blog, dropping off by more than 50 views a day. I just hope that is not a result of people thinking that our journey with cancer is over and that all is well now, which is not the case at all. We are happy to hear that the radiation was effective, and to hear the word "remission" did offer a glimpse into what could be a healthy future for Melissa, but she is still in treatment. I think it is a good idea, also, for people to realize that brain cancer is not something that is cured, it is something you have to try to live with. What that means is that, unlike most forms of cancer, it almost always comes back. Often, when brain cancer comes back, it returns more aggressive and faster growing as well, which leads to the grave diagnosis for most grade 3 and 4 patients. Now, I have met many people who are 10 years past where Melissa is and are still cancer free...but that is not the usual results. Even for those who have practically beat it, it maintains a presence in and over their lives, involving routine scans and related medicines indefinitely. I think for Melissa, getting past the side effects of the medicine and the lack of motivation (both due to a crazy situation and the part of the brain damaged by her tumor) will be the hardest part. Getting back to some level of activity has been challenging. We still face a very rough, hard road ahead even if the cancer never returns....a road that will require the support of our friends and family for years to come.
Please keep praying for us.
Please keep us in your thoughts.
Please keep following the blog.
Those things mean so much to us.
Please continue to support the fundraiser for her wish. This may be the last vacation our family gets for many years to come and I desperately want it to be the best vacation of our lives. Please help!
http://www.crowdrise.com/melissa-braincancer/fundraiser/charlesbarr
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