Déjà vu

Wednesday 10th June

We had an appointment today to see our oncologist consultant who we have a lot of respect for. Firstly he commented on how surprised he was at the rapid rate of recovery Amanda had made from her tumour removal just 10 days prior to this appointment. He did seem genuinely concerned for Amanda’s wellbeing too before going into the outlining the next steps with Amanda’s treatment.

This is what we know:

• Indications suggest that the tumour is now fully removed from Amanda’s brain.
• He described the brain as a sanctuary for cancers, meaning that not everything may show up on scans, so the next part of the treatment plan with be a 15 day course of radiotherapy with a double dose in the area where the cancer was found. This will take place w/c 29th June on weekdays. 
• The consequences of the administration of radiotherapy will mean that Amanda will lose her hair again (second time in 18 months). This should be a temporary effect and it will grow again when radiotherapy is completed.
• The radiotherapy will be administered via the area around the eyes and there’s a risk of cataracts forming, which could be removed if they do appear.
• Brain functionality may be impaired as a result of the radiotherapy being administered, which could be short or long term. 
• Continued tiredness for some weeks or months as a result of the recent operation.

Consultant's 'statement of health professional

The consultant expressed his view that Amanda should be able to live a normal life once the treatment has been completed, and he’s even suggested Amanda will be fit to travel back to our holiday home in Spain early in August once the treatment has been completed.

While some of the above is difficult to accept, such as the loss of hair again, Amanda’s relief at not having to go through a treatment of chemotherapy again was immeasurable. Short term steps now involve Amanda relaxing and enjoying her time with family and friends prior to radiotherapy commencing, then the next goals of completing treatment then getting the first plane over to Spain that she possibly can. Amanda had a 'miserable day' yesterday as it was an emotional, draining day both mentally and physically. She's allowed some down time, isn't she?

Avoid the baby changing facilities at the Royal Stoke Hospital by all accounts – shooting babies is encouraged if the below photograph is to go by. 

Dean