HI Donnajean,

When they were trying to determine the cause of the swelling they did (in order)Blood test, ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI, Ct Scan with biopsy (while being scanned they put a big needle into the tumors. (and give you the equivalent of a couple of margaritas to keep you calm.)

Due to the size of the tumors (largest was 3 1/2" - everything is bigger in Texas) the prognosis was not good. Surgery was out since the multiple tumors covered too much of the liver there wouldn't be enough to regenerate.

I am being treated at Cancer Therapy Research Center in San Antonio. (not to be confused with the place that advertises) - Luckily enough they do more clinical trials than any other place in the US. (wish I would have gone there first go around)

They have a clinical trail right now for people with SCC that have had very little or no chemo. I fit since I had no chemo before. So I got in the trial and this week will be my 6th treatment. My treatment is a combo of carbo/taxol and the investigational drug; which are two pills I take daily. All of my scans are of chest, abdomen, and pelvis. As of the last ct scan my tumors have shrunk to 25% of their previous size. Cool huh!!!

In another 3 weeks I will have another ct scan and then we will decide what the future holds.
And yes with the tumors shrinking my stomach now has more room. I've gained 5 pounds!!!

Take care,
Dinah