More Tests

In preparation for our May visit to carcinoid specialist Dr. Eugene Woltering in New Orleans, Merlynn has been having more tests run at this doctor's request.

Last week he had another MRI.  The radiologist who studied the results reported finding what he feels is the primary tumor in Merlynn's pancreas. 

Hearing about the possibility of a tumor in his pancreas really scared me and I cried for three days, but according to Dr. Nibley, this is "inconsequential" since he already has "more than 10 but probably less than 20 tumors in his liver."

Dr. Nibley has been great about working with us, but he feels it's unnecessary to do anything to help Merlynn other than offer the monthly shot.  I'm really looking forward to visiting with Dr. Woltering who has written about several other options that are available, including surgery or radio frequency ablation which can somehow burn and kill the tumors.  (Dr. Woltering also thinks it's unlikely the tumor in Mer's pancreas is the primary one.)

I'm glad Merlynn is studying all the options so when the time comes, we can make an informed decision as to how to proceed.

(I'm including the above picture to show the "harpoon" he gets stuck with every month.  OUCH!)