Medical update No. 4

Jen's just had another set of scans on Tuesday and we had results today (Wednesday March 4th). In summary, the tumours have shrunk more, so the chemotherapy is continuing to work. The primary tumour is down from 5.5cm to 4.5 cm and the largest lymph node down from 3cm to 1.5 cm. Of the four lesions in Jen's liver, three are no longer visible in the scan (although that doesn't mean they are gone), and other is about 10mm.

However our oncologist is concerned about the peripheral neuropathy caused by the chemotherapy - that is, damage to the nerves in Jen's hands and feet, which leads to both loss of sensation and heightened painful sensation. There's a risk that some of the damage could be permanent. Thus we might have to stop chemo sooner than originally planned (this is quite a common occurrence with the paclitaxel that Jen is having). At this stage our oncologist would be happy if Jen could get through six cycles of this chemotherapy, but wasn't sure if that would happen. Jen started cycle five today,so six cycles would take us just past Easter. In three weeks, we're meeting a breast surgeon to discuss options for surgery after chemo.

Thanks again for the support of so many people. Your cards, messsages, emails, prayers and practical actions have been very much appreciated. Jen wants to apologise for not replying in person to many messages - most of her energy is just focused on getting through what has to be done. She's hoping to get more time for replies post-chemo.