6 Month post-treatment MRI clean

I had an MRI yesterday - Good news - No new growth. Here is the doctor-speak from the radiologist:

IMPRESSION: In comparison to the prior MR study dated 5/15/12 there is

interval mild decrease in size of the small nodule of enhancement along

the anterosuperior wall of the resection cavity in the right parietal

lobe. There is associated mild decrease in the increased cerebral

perfusion demonstrated on the prior MR study dated 2/17/12 in the same

area. No new areas of abnormal enhancement are present.

The 'Resection Cavity' he speaks of is where they took the biopsy from, a relativity small part of the tumour.  I have a question into them about whey they never comment on the much larger (10x) diffuse area. Its kinda weird that they focus on "small nodule of enhancement along the anterosuperior wall of the resection cavity". This area is smaller than a pea compared to the diffuse area that is the size of my fist.

The doctor was not concerned about my advancing tingling in my face. Again, I think he is happy to see me walking around. We decided to stop the Tramadol for the headaches. He is of the opinion that any medication that would help this is going to have undesirable side effects. I told him about the metaphysical things I have been trying (mediation) and surprisingly he said that was a great idea, much better that using medications. He also said acupuncture 'can't hurt' - what do you have to loose?

Lastly, I asked him about the frequency of these appointments and MRI's. To me its pretty obvious that I am doing great and getting a MRI every 3 months seems like a waste of time and money.  He said that the plan is to stick with the quarterly exams for up to 5 years, then go to once a year., assuming my condition does not degrade.  This tells me that my current health has little to do with the probability of further growth, and his concern does not subside till the 5 year mark. Putting the pieces together, Remission starts at 5 years. I am about 2 years past diagnosis and looking good. I can live with that. 

Brain Tumor Goes Hiking

I am still having continuous problems with headaches and endurance. Two years back, my doctors would tell me that I would have to discover the 'new me'. I am starting to accept that how I feel now may be the 'new me' , and I cannot let this poor state hold me back from the things I love to do. In this spirit, My Son and I, with my BFF and his Son went camping and hiking over the weekend. I was very worried that I would not be able to do this, or would pay the consequences like I did on previous smaller excursions. Good news - the weather was gorgeous, the trip went off without a hitch, and I am still standing the day after. Brain Tumors can go camping!

Me and my Son about to enter the mysterious cave

Roughing it

You can see the rest of the pictures here. Here is where we went.

You can Do It. Live Alive.

MRI next week. Not expecting any changes, not worried.
Thanks for reading, and many thanks to those who leave comments with encouragement.