The MRI was long and uncomfortable, last year I was in and out in 45 minutes, this year was nearly 90 minutes, at least they didn't tape head in place this year. The results were good. There is no evidence of measurable growth of the remains of the tumor on my spine. They noticed some scar tissue that they had not seen before, but nothing that concerned them. The great news is the next follow up is in two years, with a reminder that this is a very slow growing tumor, so no guarantees. I still have some variation in feeling in the bottom of my feet and toes, really unchanged over the last 2-3 years, in other words this is as good as it will get. Both the neurologist and my family doctor agreed that the neurological dead spot is likely painful. At least once a day it feels like someone is standing on my ribs for a minute or two, then as long as I am careful how a move, the pain goes away. The new normal. Considering everything that might have happened, I am in great shape for the shape I am in.
The visit to my family doc, showed really no changes. My weight was down one-pound over a year before. Meaning I am still fat. My blood pressure was about the same, stressed, but not enough to merit any changes (it has been a challenging year in the office.) Blood sugar was acceptable. My cholesterol was the same, but she moved the goal posts and recommended pills and kicking the treadmill up a few notches to see if I can lose a little weight. If I lost 100 pounds, I'd be one sexy beast. I'll be happy with 25 pounds over the next year.
I had a great conversation with my family practice doctor (GP.) I assured her I know I am an aging fat man. I don't expect her to prevent or cure everything, I know I am in the last quarter of a fun life (she high-fived me for those comments.) We will work on the obvious, but I'd sooner have quality, than quantity. I am more concerned about life in my years, than years in my life.
I completely agree with your final sentiment. Sorry you’ve had to live with this but so happy for your good news. Wishing you two uneventful (healthwise) years filled with joy.
ReplyDeleteThe best is yet to come
Deletewell, THAT IS good news indeed!
ReplyDeleteI take 1 blood pressure pill daily, and I've lost 20 pounds since september. my GP asked me what I was doing to drop the weight; I told her portion sizes, at age 65 I can't eat like a pig any more.
But there are so many good things to nibble on.
Deleteyes there are, but I watch my nibbling. otherwise my stomach hates me.
DeleteGlad your results were good! I've only had an MRI once but was surprised at how noisy they are when you're inside. 90 minutes of that would be nerve-wracking.
ReplyDeleteEven with ear plugs, it is noisy, I try to create music with the noise.
DeleteHugs, gentle heartfelt hugs.
ReplyDeleteThanks, the best is yet to come
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ReplyDeleteCongratulations on the good results. Good thought for the next two years.
I have to take Valium or Xanax to survive an MRI. It is too painful to lie motionless for a long period of time. I always want to shift around to find the least painful position. The medicine makes me very sleepy so I am less liable to mess up. I have a brain MRI coming up soon. It's to see of the new medicine I am on has stopped or at least lessened the progression of MS lesions in the brain. Hope for the best.
I have never done that, but a lot of people do. One time they tried to stuff me in a standard small machine, and I actually stopped and told them no. I had booked a larger machine, I don't fit in the small one. Good luck on your test results.
DeleteThat's a good attitude to have. I am not really a nibbler but reducing portion sizes really does seem to help.
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