Since my last post, I've seen the eye doctor several times. The blood on the retina has been reabsorbed and the swelling went down. Unfortunately, my vision is still significantly worse than before the procedure. The reason for this is that I now have a new problem. I had a scan of my eye and it showed that there is fluid behind the retina, which is causing distorted vision. The leakage of fluid is coming from the optic nerve tumor, which has sprung a leak. Dr. Cohen, my local eye doctor, has no answers for me and recommeded me to be see at the Wills Eye Hospital in Philadephia. There I will be seeing the top doctors in the country to see if they have any ideas of how to help me. These are the doctors to whom he presented my case a couple of weeks ago. Due to the urgency, I will be flying out next Monday and have an appointment on Tuesday (a 6-8 hour evaluation). Hopefully they will have a treatment plan for me, which may include a radiation implant or systemic chemo. My sister lives in PA & will meet me there to keep me company and help me get around.
Now for some good news... Yesterday, I had a repeat MRI of my spine to see if the infection was improving or was gone. It appears to be gone! Hooray! And, there didn't appear to be any change in the size of the tumors in the spine or brainstem.
This Friday, I will see my internist for a physical, bloodwork & EKG as a prerequisite to being seen at the Wills Eye Clinic.
On a completely separate note... I received a surprise book-on-tape in a bag from a mystery person. It came at the perfect time because I was going crazy not being able to see anything! I finished it in three days and would highly recommend it - House Rules by Jodi Picoult. So, thank to my secret angel!
I also want to take the opportunity to thank Brian and Darlene Schick for generously providing me transportation to Philly on a United buddy pass. Thanks also to Suzanne and Ray Baumruk for putting me up in a hotel while I am there. It is greatly appreciated, as Steve has still not found a job after six months out of work. If you have any tips, he is still looking for a medical sales or management position.
To all of the mothers out there, I hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day!
Will let you know what happens in Philly...
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