MRI & Bone Scan Results

We received Dallas' scan results today which unfortunately confirmed what we anticipated - cancer has metastasized to the bone, especially in the lower lumbar area of the spine & sacrum. The tumors in the sacrum (most lower part of spine) are most concerning due to two or three nerves are impinged and this is area causing the most pain & trouble walking. Plus, Dr doesn’t want any weight on that left hip due to fear of fracture. Positive news is scans show no metastasized cancer in the cervical or thoracic region of the spin or left leg. The pain in left leg is due to all the tumors in the left lower spine & sacrum tumors.

Next Step – Radiation
The recommended treatment for the metastasized tumors in the lower spine & left sacrum is targeted radiation immediately. This will assist with moms pain, symptoms and growth of the tumors to reduce risk of fracture. So, we have a radiation consult this Mon 7/2 @ CTRC in San Antonio. Dallas will receive radiation every day for 2 weeks. Hopefully Harold will be able to drive her out to CTRC (Cancer Therapy & Research Center) but if anyone else is available just in case please let us know. Also, hospice is still being set up & we're meeting with them early next week in Bulverde.

Clinical Trial Options
Dallas is on the waiting list for Phase I Clinical Trial at CTRC which is world renowed for their Clinical Trials. She must complete her radiation therapy before starting a clinical trial. CTRC has been conducting such trials for 20 years while MD Anderson has only done Phase I studies for 3 years so mom is at a great place. Dallas is anxious to start the radiation treatment in hopes to relieve her lower back pain & be stronger when she starts the clinical trial.

Dallas is enjoying her time in Austin and this blog so thank you for leaving comments. She checks it daily and is actually getting the hang of it!