I Don't ♥ Cancer

Zak had another scan today. They lymph node in question has not changed in size. Again, this is very good news. He will go back in 3 months for another scan.

After today’s checkup, we are pleased to find that the lymph node in question has NOT increased in size! We will continue to watch it with routine checkups. Thank you so much to everyone for your all your support!

Unfortunately, when dealing with cancer, there can be quite a bit of “gray” area. This is where we are at right now. The lymph node in question has not gotten any smaller, however, MOST IMPORTANTLY, it has not gotten any bigger either. It is common to have lymph nodes be enlarged and remain enlarged. Zak’s oncologist strongly feels that if it was Hodgkins Lymphoma again, it would have increased in size by now. Keep in mind, there are no guarantees. So, in the meantime, we wait. Zak will go back for another CT Scan in January. At that time, it will be decided if we want to have the lymph node surgically removed. Obviously, if it has gotten bigger it will come out immediately. If it has gotten smaller, we will continue to watch it. Although we would have loved to hear that it shrunk significantly, the fact that it hasn’t grown is certainly something to smile about!

Zak had his ultrasound at 9:30 this morning. Unfortunately, it came back inconclusive. We then went for a CT scan at 1:30. The lymph node in question has shrunk a teeny tiny bit. Dr. Goodell feels that this is a good sign. Although we would have liked to see it shrunk even more, we are headed in the right direction. Zak will have another CT scan at the end of October.

Once again – thank you for all your support. We will continue to keep you posted!

Thank you for all your well wishes!!!

Yesterday Zak went for a routine checkup for a CT scan, blood work and check up. Although the news we received wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t what we were hoping for either.

The CT scan showed an enlarged lymph node behind one of the muscles on the right side of his neck. About 3 weeks ago, Zak had a virus that warranted a trip to the doctor. At that time, he was tested for strep and mono. Both came back negative. Apparently, it is common to get a “false” negative for mono. The virus actually stays in your system for quite some time even after the symptoms subside.

On Saturday, Zak will be tested again for Mono. IF it comes back positive this time, there is a good chance the enlarged lymph node may be a result of the Mono virus. In addition to being tested for Mono again, he will also go back in 2 weeks for an ultrasound of the lymph node with the hopes that it has shrunk. IF the Mono test comes back negative and the lymph node did NOT get any smaller, it will need to be removed immediately and sent to pathology.

ZAK REMAINS CANCER FREE!!!!!!!!!!

This morning Zak had his 6 month CT scan.  Although we got the results much sooner than expected, I am very happy to announce that Zak remains CANCER FREE!  We are so lucky to have friends and family that care so much about us.  We could not have done this alone!  We love all of you : )

Zak gave a speech to the student body at McHenry West high school during the St Baldrick’s head shaving event. He was nervous but yet very courageous to talk to his peers about his experience and how important early detection is. He did a great job and we are very proud of him for doing this! Click below to see the speech:

Zak’s St Baldrick’s Speech

As you all know, cancer is a battle that is very difficult if not impossible to fight alone. Here is a story of a 35 year old man that is facing this disease after losing his job and with no insurance. A benefit is being held in his honor, details in the story.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rbieber/4333184335/sizes/l/