Turning a Corner

Yesterday 5/11 Reba had an MRI and labs at Primaries in Salt Lake City. It was a very long day. The scan showed basically unchanged dimensions. The mass is measuring 8.2 cm x 7.8 x 10 cm whereas the last scan (10/20/21) was measuring 7.9 x 9 x 10.3 cm.

Our oncologist Dr. Fluchel feels like it is time to transfer Reba to post 5 year Survivorship care team. Reba has been in a careful surveillance regiment for the past 5 years since she stopped treatment in Spring of 2017. Because Reba had refractory Neuroblastoma, or a relapse and required additional chemotherapy we have been keeping a close eye on the mass for 5 years. Dr. Fluchel feels that she has been very stable and would like to transfer her care to a team that will continue to monitor, but in a different way. Next year the plan is an ultrasound, and to follow her blood/urine numbers.

It feels surreal honestly. We are scared to back off, and yet at the same time this is the absolute best news we could have hoped for.

Yes the mass is still there, but it is likely mostly scarred and matured- meaning (hopefully) the cancer cells will not keep dividing.

The mass is encasing the celiac axis, superior mesenteric artery and bilateral renal arteries. It also displaces the pancreas anteriorly (rude unwanted guest!). In a perfect world the mass would disintegrate and be gone. At this point however her body is living with it, and she is thriving. So for now we let it be, and enjoy life. Hallelujah, Amen!! Now time to celebrate.

Old pro at MRIs- doesn’t require anesthesia. Reba sits perfectly still and watches a virtual movie for hours.
Welcome feast after hours of fasting for the scan!
Long day…hurry up and wait.

16 thoughts on “Turning a Corner

  1. Kelly Herring May 12, 2022 / 8:16 am

    Oh what fantastic news!! She is an amazing little trooper!! She’s been through so much and maintains such a sweet spirit and smile! We will pray for continued good news!!

    Liked by 1 person

  2. Anne Vaaler May 12, 2022 / 8:28 am

    Happy news, though in that liminal space with the intruder. We will continue to hold Reba in prayer going forward. What an amazing gift she is, as are all of you. Grandma Lois Z. would have just adored this crew!❤️

    Liked by 1 person

  3. stephanie gillis May 12, 2022 / 8:29 am

    Super Reba needs a cape for all her mighty heroic days. This is amazing news and something to celebrate!! Continued prayers for a smooth care transition.

    Liked by 1 person

  4. Lynne Zumberge May 12, 2022 / 8:45 am

    That sounds like good news for Reba and to your whole family Nik. She’s such a sweetie and you are all doing an amazing job. Sending love and kisses from our family to all of your little ones:) Hugs to you and Leah too.

    Liked by 1 person

  5. The Russ Family May 12, 2022 / 9:14 am

    This is great news and definitely the logical next step. You have all done such a great job as a family supporting Reba! We will still be praying that all stays very well.

    Liked by 1 person

  6. Cindy Boram May 12, 2022 / 10:15 am

    What a blessing. Reba is so sweet and your little Angel. I will continue to pray for her. May aGod bless her and your precious family. 💜🙏❤️

    Liked by 1 person

  7. Holly May 12, 2022 / 11:44 am

    Three cheers for good news and a new stage to enter into for you all.

    Liked by 1 person

  8. Gail Groves May 12, 2022 / 12:52 pm

    She is such a little trooper and old hand at everything medical by now. I hope all continues to be uneventful for years and years and years. Boring is good!

    Liked by 1 person

  9. Melinda Martin May 12, 2022 / 3:30 pm

    Best wishes on this wonderful news!

    Liked by 1 person

  10. Laura Arnow May 12, 2022 / 7:50 pm

    Wow! This is a big step and a new adventure. What wonderful news. Hooray Reba!!!!

    Liked by 1 person

  11. Kellie Scannell May 13, 2022 / 6:22 am

    That is great news. I will continue to pray for sweet Reba and your family. Congratulations!

    Liked by 1 person

  12. kak2522 May 13, 2022 / 8:15 am

    This truly is wonderful news! What you all have been through and the positive attitude and response just shows how powerful that energy can be at healing the body. Hoping the same continues and your beautiful daughters and son continue to thrive.

    Liked by 1 person

  13. Jane May 13, 2022 / 9:39 am

    Oh Leah that is indeed great news! Jane

    Liked by 1 person

  14. Sarojani May 14, 2022 / 7:10 am

    Well—All good news!—-Reba is a warrior as are the rest of you and your family. May only good news continue on! Sending Love and Blessings

    Liked by 1 person

  15. Yaya and Tata May 17, 2022 / 8:00 pm

    Reba you always blow us away!!! We are thrilled at this great news 💗💗💗😻😻😻

    Liked by 1 person

  16. Carlos Rivera May 18, 2022 / 5:21 am

    Amazing news!! Go Reba!!

    Liked by 1 person

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