12 years ago

It was this time 12 years ago that James had his first MRI and we found out the next day that he had a brain tumor. That seems like a lifetime ago!

Today, James had another MRI. This one didn't go so well. In fact, I'd say it was probably the worse one yet. With the weight gain and the swelling from the hypothyroidism, as well as the fact that he's had so many sticks that his vessels are probably worn out, getting a vein for the contrast was almost impossible. Six sticks, three nurses, one anesthesiologist borrowed from the OR, and many tears later (not to mention all the pain), they finally got the contrast in. The vessel they finally got was not a good one and James was in great pain while they pushed it in. But, since we'd already been trying for an hour to even get a vessel, there was no choice but to just finish. James gets quite anxious during things like this because of all the past bad experiences (I'm sure this one's not going to help in the future). When he gets like that, his mouth tends to run....claiming that he hates this and he just wants to die. But, bless his heart, when it's all over, he still thanks everyone for coming and for all they done for him. He never ceases to amaze me!!!

This afternoon, the doctor called to give us the report. They believe that the tumor is bigger now. Six months ago, the tumor measured 3cm x 3cm x 3.5cm. It now measures 3.5cm x 3.5cm x 3.8cm. I believe our reprieve is over. Don't get me wrong. I am very thankful for that reprieve. We needed that...James needed that.

Now, the doctors will send his scans to Duke to get their opinion and I will send the scans to Dr. Burzynski in Houston to get his take.

Then we will enjoy Christmas!!!!!!

I think tonight about the words to one of my favorite songs:

"God's been good....in my life.
I feel blessed beyond my wildest dreams
when I go to sleep each night.
And though I've had my share of hard times,
I wouldn't change them if I could,
Cause through it all,
God's been good.
And though I've had my share of hard time.
By my side He's always stood.
Through it all.....
God's been good!!!!!"




We will make a decision in the New Year.