Living Well with Parkinsons Disease
Dancing in the Rain: Lessons Learned on my Personal Journey with PD (more at www.PDPlan4Life.com) Copyright 2013-20 Sheryl Jedlinski
Forecast calls for “cautious optimism”
By Sheryl Jedlinski
Yesterday was supposed to be my “big day,” the day I was expecting to be pronounced cancer-free. Having undergone extensive surgery last fall, completed weeks of rehab, and survived 18 chemo treatments – each with their own adverse side effects — I felt I was due, if not overdue, for a return to good health. Unfortunately, doctors cannot wave a magic wand and bestow good health upon us. Rather, we must earn it by staying the treatment course they prescribe.
Yesterday’s follow-up test results revealed no worrisome changes in size or position of any particular spot when compared to earlier CT scans. In light of this, my surgeon/oncologist assured me that she remains “cautiously optimistic” about my prospects for remission. Before pronouncing me cancer-free, however, she wants additional scans done using the latest nuclear imaging technology to best distinguish between scar tissue and cancer. With all of my test results in hand, she will present my case and history to an expert panel of cancer specialists who will discuss treatment options and identify optimal treatment plans for my specific situation. Studies have shown that this approach leads to greater patient satisfaction and improved clinical outcomes. What patient would want anything less?
4 comments on “Forecast calls for “cautious optimism””
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Living Well with Parkinsons Disease 
Good news! So happy for you. Betty Lou Byrnes
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Definitely, headed in the right direction! You have a great team and are in Good Hands.
My thoughts are with you!
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I’m rooting for “patient satisfaction.” We love you. Lou and Shirley