We are oh so lucky, Eldy and I.
It has been just over a year since his treatment started. During that year, he has dealt with chemo every other week (which he continues to receive.) He's really lucky, because a) it's working, and b) he tolerates it pretty well. The worst side affect has been fatigue, and that doesn't usually seem to last long. (Plus, he's very good about listening to his body and taking it easy when he needs to.)
In addition to the chemo, they gave him something called Erbitux - something they only use on fairly high grade cancer. Boy, was that rough - between the acne like rash and the gastrointestinal abuse, he really was hit hard, but.... the upside is that it worked!
So how is he doing? He's had numerous ct scans to assess things. Many of the spots in his liver are now completely gone. The few remaining are "tiny" (oncologist's word.) His CEA level is 1.7 - which is FANTASTIC, and in the normal range!
I still call this the gift with the ugly wrapping. Would I choose this? Absolutely not. But we have enjoyed spending time together in this last year more than we have in the previous 27 years of our marriage. We've improved our home a lot - new front doors, the whole downstairs painted, new oak flooring. We cherish each other and our time and family and friends, and have high hopes for many more years of cherishing ahead. Sometimes I feel greedy, and then I wish more than anything to hear those words "You're all done with chemo, and you're cancer free." But those words will come, and in the meantime, I am oh SO grateful - for the treatment that has worked, for the caring doctors and nurses he's gotten to know so well, for the love and prayers of so many.
