January MRI
We learned yesterday that the tumor has grown and is currently about 8 x 5 x 6 cm. I have been feeling pressure in my head and taking steroids to combat the swelling and pain.
One opinion is that we did an MRI too soon. We didn’t give the chemo treatment long enough to show effects. We should have just done a CT scan now to check on bleeding, but other opinions said to go ahead and get the MRI done, which is kind of what I wanted to just go ahead and do.
We are in discussion with my local oncologist, Duke oncology and the NIH to determine the new course of treatment. It’s time to get aggressive again.
While the news was not good, I’m still hopeful and positive that we’re going to reduce this tumor and come out fine. I still feel well and remain mostly asymptomatic. I have a small blindspot that will probably keep me from driving for a while.
Detailed MRI Findings: Again seen is a heterogeneous T2 hyperintense intra-axial mass in the right frontal, parietal mid convexity extending intrinsic high T1 signal. The mass is increased in size from the prior study, currently measuring 4.8 x 8.8 x 6.6 cm. This is increased 3.1 x 6.4 x 5 cm. There is heterogeneous enhancement in the mass following contrast administration. There is increased mass effect as well with a 6.5 mm of right to left subfalcine shift. Previously, there was no midline shift. There is no significant surrounding vasogenic edema. No new area of abnormal fluid collection. Ventricular size remains within normal limits. The cervicomedullary junction is normally positioned. Pituitary gland volume is within nomal limits.
The topic of palliative care keeps coming up.
11 responses to “January MRI”
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Meal Train
Sign up to bring us a meal via Meal TrainMEALTRAIN WAS A VERY HELPFUL RESOURCE FOR US BUT NOW IT HAS EVOLVED INTO BRINGING US SPECIFIC UNCOOKED INGREDIENTS BECAUSE of the wtict diet we are on.This is just as valuable to us though..
A glioblastoma journey 
Ken (and Tina),
I came across your blog as I was searching the web for positive stories after my husband’s anaplastic astrocytoma diagnosis. I read your blog from time to time and am so impressed by your spirit and also by your honesty. It is not easy being on this journey, so thank you for sharing your story. You are both amazing.
Best wishes,
Allyson M
Hang Tough Ken! Not a day goes by you are not in my thoughts!
Hang Tough Ken! Not a day goes by you are not in my thoughts! I know you to be strong as hell and a no BS kinda man. Thoughts and prayers to you and Tina.
Thinking of you! Be aggressive and stay positive! Your life is yours and yours alone- cancer might be part of it, but you get to choose not to let the cancer be a defining part. I am so happy to read that you have no midline shift! Keep it going with your treatments and enjoy every moment that you feel well and strong! Good vibes being sent your way daily!
Sorry the news was not good. I am so thankful you are not hurting and that you’re feeling well. But I still pray for healing and recovery — and I know that Tina is by your side so tirelessly.
–Rob
The most amazing parts of each of your blog entries are these words: “I feel good.” Ken, you’ve got hard nosed tenacity. Add that to your fearless ability to roll with every single punch is testament enough. There’s nobody like you. And you still take time to smell the roses! We all love you and Tina!
You amaze me with your strength of mind and heart. Keep fighting. You are always in our thoughts and definitely our prayers.
Prayers continue to be raised for you from Australia
Kebo, I am so sorry this news is not so good. But your spirit and positive outlook are an inspiration to everyone you come in contact with…it’s infectious. You are one special guy, and you never cease to impress us. We continue to keep both you and Tina in our prayers. We love you both!
Dear Ken please read this article http://seekingalpha.com/article/1150271-investors-discounting-positive-data-readout-on-brain-cancer-studies?source=yahoo
Dear Ken , go for it ! You are amazing and will beat this gbm !
Sending my love and prayers for you and Tina from Rio de Janeiro Brazil !
Cris