A nice side effect.

3/13/2012

One nice side effect of all of this is the time I'm having to practice. It's coming along nicely. I'll put up a post of my playing something in a week or so maybe, depending on how it goes. I might even get some work done on the symphony. ;)

3 Comments

Susan Prieto-Welch

3/13/2012 10:38:38 am

I look forward to hearing your music, Kevin, and can't think of a better way to spend time as you heal and explore what comes next. Thanks for sharing the biopsy results...I'm sorry you're facing this again. Like you, I'm hopeful that the oncologist will have some terrific options to share with you, and that this round of treatments will take care of it. As you're able, I look forward to hearing what the oncologist says. As always, many hugs to you, Kevin. :)

Dena Nelson

3/13/2012 01:55:00 pm

Wow! You look terrific! You sailed through that in no time and without black eyes! You "done good" my friend! I am so sorry that it is a melanoma, however it sounds like she did a good job of excising it.

About Gamma Knife, I've had it. It works well and is the least invasive treatment I can think of and recommend it if you have a choice. You go in for the treatment in the morning and out by noon...or a short time like that. With Gamma Knife, they attach a "halo" frame to your skull (yes, they screw it in!) and take you to an MRI where they determine exactly where to aim, and then take you to the Gamma Knife machine where they "shoot" the intense rays directly at the area they are targeting. Generally, there is little collateral damage to the brain, and few "afteraffects" from the GK. Some people, including me, had headaches for a week or two afterward -- just depends on how much radiation/dose they used.

The GK rays alter the cells of the tumor making it impossible for the cells to replicate. Many tumors are totally obliterated, but some, like mine which was too big, are temporarily stopped. Mine will grow back at some time, but not too soon.

Look up Gamma Knife on the web and educate yourself on the process so that when you talk with your NS, you'll know what she is telling you. There are a number of other radiation and chemo techniques, which many are being quite successful.

Now, rest lots, play lots of music, keep a journal of this journey, and then rest more. Try not to worry much (however some is allowed!) and let your body heal.

I am so glad you came through this like a trooped! Stay well, get lots of rest!

Dan

3/13/2012 07:59:10 pm

Kevin, I was checking out your photo of you with the cap. I'm sorry to say that you look just like me. But with a red beard.

I'm happy you've escaped from the hospital. Keep up the good work.

Dan & Terry Lou

A nice side effect.

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Kevin

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