Numbers game

Being well aware of those here who have been struggling with this monster, I am a little embarassed to note a drastic drop in my own psa level. Like the Veteran who survives an ordeal in war while his buddies may not, a sort of a guilt thing arises. I feel the same way here in the forums.

45 days ago 155 psa brought some "anxiety" (Gunslinger) :) I had some teeth pulled to get ready for Zometa, A port surgically installed for near immediate start of Taxotere, fatigue was heavy on my plate. Not what I felt like putting up with at the time. Then a month ago Blood test revealed psa of 28point something. Was given a Taxotere holiday with pleasure on my part.

Just today I was stunned again with a psa of 3.26. Thats a hefty drop from 45 days ago. Is it the calm before the storm? I dont know, but it is worth celebrating at my house. Yet I do feel guilty in a way by posting this.

This drastic drop is attributed to radiation on my right hip joint in April according to Oncologist that just now is registering in blood tests. (seems odd it takes that long to register)

I started Zometa for the first time and got my belly shot, right side this go round. No Taxotere yet. I wish the same or better good news for all of you!

Greetingz,
No need to feel guilty. On the contrary it is uplifting to hear from those that respond well to treatment. Keep reporting your good numbers. I am sure we all are pulling for you. Wish you the very best outcome to treatment.

RalphV

Celebrate - no survivors guilt needed - everyone still celebrates with you.

This just made my day! I'm so happy to hear the good news!

--Harper

greetingz,

That is fantastic news! There is no reason to feel guilty... except for not updating your signature to reflect that 3.26! :)

Thanks to each of you for the encouragements! Thank you 142 for the explanation of why the long time period between radiation and measurable results. I may have asked my Onc about that but his reply must have contained too much doctor speak for me to grasp.

There is nothing I would enjoy more here in these forums than to read of any of you friends gaining an upper hand with your struggles and this helps me understand why a guilt trip is not really beneficial. Thanks for helping me with it.

Yet I do feel guilty in a way by posting this.

Oh, please don't feel this way.  Let us all rejoice that what you are doing is working!  Congratulations!