We had good news from the oncologist. Of the 3 tumor markers, the results of the blood test show that only one marker - CA 19.9 - is outside the normal range. The latest reading is 71.2 when it needs to be below 39. However, as Dr Karmen Wong pointed out, the trend is more important. The reading at the previous test was 164 and it is now 71.2, which is an encouraging sign. She did stress that we cannot and should not expect that there will be no cancer cell in Nicole's body.
Going forward, Dr Wong outlined two possible courses of action:
1. Radiation with chemo - to shrink the tumor more, but if this fails then chemo would be less effective; and
2. Surgery to remove the tumor followed by chemo to address the liver and rib bone problems.
We are opting for surgery, provided the surgeon can confirm that it is can be done with no negative impact on the intestine and rectum.
Thus Nicole will have an MRI scan of the lower pelvic region tomorrow to get a better picture of the tumor situation. She has an appointment with the surgeon, Dr Ngoi on Monday afternoon. He will tell us what is the likelihood of success of the surgery. If we decide to proceed for surgery, Nicole will be admitted to the hospital on Monday afternoon for surgery on Tuesday.
We are reaching an important decision time.
We need all the prayers so that both doctors and us make the right decision.
This would not be an ordinary surgery as there are major blood vessels in the region of the tumor. Thus we are going to rely very much on the opinion of the surgeon to decide if we proceed or not. We trust Dr. Ngoi as we have dealt with him before. He has never been in a rush to recommend surgery. He wants to perform surgery if he is sure he has a high probability of success. This is a good sign.
We praise the Lord for this tremendous progress. We count on your continuing prayers and support.
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