After a month of waiting, yesterday we finally got the results of hubby's Oncotype DX prostate cancer test. His cancer is "very low risk" of growing or spreading for many years. Specifically for the next 10 years because that's as far out as the test can predict at this time. What a relief!
We now can consider all treatment options, including "active surveillance," which initially means another biopsy in six months. If there's no change at six months, then a third biopsy will be scheduled two years later. However, as soon as Medicare approves prostate cancer MRIs, that procedure will be prescribed as additional confirmation. A MRI will also show exactly where the cancer is, making radiation therapy extra efficient.
For sure hubby wants to avoid surgery, which is why he may decide on radiation therapy immediately. I'm leaning toward "active surveillance," because, as the doc said, new tests and treatments are being developed all the time.
Whatever's decided, we are both feeling a sense of relief even though we'll be living with this "thing" for the rest of hubby's life. I honestly didn't realize how much hubby's diagnosis was affecting me until last night when I finally slept soundly for 11 hours!
We can now look forward, dreaming of and planning more travel adventures. First up, the New England and Canada cruise next month – so excited!
May 2018
1 comment:
That is exciting news!! My dad had prostate cancer and opted for radiation. That alone got rid of it and he never had a reoccurrence in his 94 years. They know more now and learn new things all the time. Such good news!! :) :)
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