Stella had an MRI on Friday, November 1. We received the written results a few days later and were very happy to find out that the tumor does not appear to have grown. The reading of the MRI says that the more anterior portion of the mass "appears to be very slightly smaller than on the prior exam of August 2, 2013 Previously, this measured approximately 12 mm anterior-posterior and now approximately 8 mm." I'm no doctor, but the way I read this indicates no new growth and a very, very small reduction of a portion of the tumor. That is great news. The results also say that there are no new lesions detected, and that there is not significant abnormal area of enhancement. This is also great news. My limited understanding of the significance of watching for enhancement is that if the tumor is absorbing the dye that they inject in you (and you are thus seeing areas of enhancement), it indicates the tumor may be in a growth phase. So, again, good news that there is not "significant abnormal area of enhancement" (although the lawyer in me has mixed feelings about this since the use of the words "not significant abnormal area" means there must be some abnormal area of enhancement, or else it would say no enhancement at all. . . ). I will understand more once we are able to meet with Dr. Sun in early December, but we are feeling very grateful right now that Stella's tumor appears not to have grown, and has even shrunk some.
The MRI also noted a pineal gland mass of doubtful significance. Not really sure what that is all about, but I don't remember hearing about a pineal gland mass before. . . .hmmmm. My research shows that it is not anything to be concerned about at this time, but still REALLY?! Poor Stella and her brain. I am remaining positive though about this MRI. There was no growth in her tumor, and that is GREAT!
We are currently on a two week break from chemo and leave tomorrow to go to Florida for six days for a much needed vacation. Our lives have been a whirlwind since we received Stella's diagnosis in July, and it will be nice to sit on the beach, search for sea shells with the kids, and just relax. We are pushing our vacation to the limit a bit though! We have to take Stella to chemo to start her next round on the same day we get back! :-)
Below are a few cute pictures of the three kiddos. We take family photos once a year and took them this year at Sand Harbor. I love these pictures of three of them together. Max and Eli sure love their sister. We will probably use one of these on our Christmas card. . . . so enjoy the preview!!
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