Happy Thanksgiving

My visits to Dr. Richards and Dr. Fidanzato this week while run of the mill also managed to provide me with an unexpected surprise.

The only new information that I got from Dr. Richards is that my next PET scan will be in mid-January. But first I get to see him on January 7th for my next follow-up visit.

Dr. Fidanzato was able to share some endoscopy pictures that I hadn’t seen before. There wasn’t anything additional that I needed to know about this last endoscopy but the new set of pictures, when viewed side by side with the originals from January, provided me with a clear tangible image of the positive change that has happened. As Dr Fidanzato said, “somebody must really love you”. I just nodded my head in full agreement.

We then discussed the endoscopic sonogram that he is recommending. Since there is no real urgency for this test our plan is to wait for the January PET scan to see if it shows any activity. He thinks that the October PET scan showed normal cell re-growth in the esophagus and since this re-growth will be of finite and relatively short duration the January 2009 PET scan may show no unusual activity. Therefore, I have an appt. with Dr. Fidanzato on January 29th and we can decide then whether the endoscopic sonogram is even necessary.

The surprise was when he questioned the need for me to continue taking Prevacid. Since there are no symptoms to treat and since the endoscopy showed no evidence of reflux then there is no real reason to continue with the Prevacid. Therefore, I’m starting a weaning process that should have me completely free of medication in 2-3 weeks. It was only one pill a day but to be medication free will be very symbolic.

So, on that note I want to wish all of you, and your families, a Happy Thanksgiving.
Lots of hugs and kisses.
Jack--