I had my second scan after 12 weeks on the Optdivo™ trial train. After we saw reduction in the small tumors and lymph nodes, I vowed this scan would be ground-braking.

What we found was that everything remained the same. No growing tumors. Nothing shrinking (we want shrinkage). I’m now labelled with ‘stable disease’… doesn’t this kinda sound like an oxymoron? Tumor stability isn’t bad cuz I’m a reoccurring, metastatic cancer patient — I just prefer N.E.D. (No Evidence of Disease) or what the media darlings call “cancer-free”.

This means I get to stay on the trial which is good because systemic treatment is good for lymph node ‘involvement’. I will check in with my radiation oncologist in January to see what other options I might have to fight this bastard. Because I fight. I fight hard.

Next week I start my vacation. I will enjoy the heck out of preparing for our upcoming holiday festivities. I will cuddle with my luvva by the fire. I will bake cookies and make Christmas cocktails. I will play tour guide to two of my favorite people. I will tell my village how much I love them (I love you!). I will hug my kids. I will be altogether living in the moment. Merry Everything and A Bright New Year!