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Posted 11/13/2009 7:57 PM (GMT 0)
I saw my Mayo hepatologist today to get results of my blood work and CT scan last week.  The blood work was good, with viral load down to 38,000 (doing nothing but following a good diet and getting as much rest as I can.)  However, there is a questionable small spot on my liver that she wants to investigate further to make sure it's not cancer.  Also, if it is, we would be getting it diagnosed early.  She said it sometimes shows up on the CT scans I have, and other times not, so she wants to get a clearer picture.  We will do that in about 3 months.  I'm hoping that this is nothing but cirrhotic scarring or fibrosis from hep C.  She mentioned that there will be a new treatment on the market soon for hep C.  It combines interferon and ribavirin with a 3rd drug.  Side effects are quite severe.  I had read about that some months ago.  I'm just really not interested in that at the present time.

Just wanted to update everyone, as I seldom post about what is going on with me liver-wise these days.

If you are so inclined, say a little prayer or send out healing thoughts that the MRI will be benign.

Hugs,

Connie

Posted 11/13/2009 8:22 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Connie, you are always in my thoughts and prayers buddy. But I'll send an extra prayer for good MRI results..........take care..........thoughts and prayers..........
Posted 11/13/2009 9:06 PM (GMT 0)
Connie, I can not give the necessary love, hope you have famlie for that.

From Denmark, I can give you good thoughts and wishes.
Hold your head high.

Posted 11/13/2009 9:24 PM (GMT 0)

Thanks to both of you.

Hugs,

Connie

Posted 11/13/2009 11:40 PM (GMT 0)
i have you in my thoughts and prayers
Posted 11/14/2009 4:15 AM (GMT 0)

Many thanks, guys.

Hugs,

Connie

Posted 11/15/2009 2:33 AM (GMT 0)
Connie,

You are in my prayers.  Even so, you are still in my prayers.

Harp.

Posted 11/15/2009 2:39 AM (GMT 0)

Thanks, WG and Harp.  I think I may request that the MRI be done sooner.  I may as well know one way or another so I can deal with it.

Hugs,

C.

Posted 11/15/2009 10:33 AM (GMT 0)
Dear Connie.
I would not say it before now that you mention it.

I will not be accused of anything, but I give you right in your scan must be brought forward.

You schould not need to wait 3 months.

Here in Denmark, if there is suspicion of cancer, we have the right to have an additional study or starting treatment within 1 month.
Connie, pressure and get the investigation moved forward.

Posted 11/15/2009 6:35 PM (GMT 0)

John, I think since the hepatologist was not overly concerned, she didn't want to put me through scanning again so soon after my last one.  The scan is no problem, but they have a terrible time finding a vein for the IV contrast.  This last time, the radiologist had to find a deep vein by means of computer-guided help.  But I think I will see if I can get the MRI moved up to next month.

Thanks for your input.

Hugs,

Connie

Posted 11/16/2009 1:45 AM (GMT 0)
Connie, I'm so happy your viral load has dropped and all lab work turned out good. You are always in my prayers but I will pray extra for your MRI results to come back normal. You have endured and conqured so much, you are an inspiration to all of us.

Take care my friend.

My thoughts and prayers are with you,

DeeDee

Posted 11/16/2009 6:12 AM (GMT 0)
Good luck Connie,

 

Thoughts and prayers are with you!  Take care... smurf

Posted 11/16/2009 7:52 PM (GMT 0)

Thanks so much, DeeDee and Dontknow!

Hugs,

Connie

Posted 11/17/2009 7:20 PM (GMT 0)

The Mayo scheduler called me today with dates for Feb.  I was able to get the labs and MRI changed to Dec. 11th.  If I know what is going on, I can then deal with it, but not knowing drives me a little bonkers.

Hugs,

C.

Posted 11/17/2009 10:10 PM (GMT 0)
Connie, well done, good pressure from you.

11/12 i will mark me that date, or some days after.

By the way, how will the new healthcare i USA effect people like you ?

John

Posted 11/18/2009 12:07 AM (GMT 0)

It's 12/11, John...unless you reverse things over there and give the day first.

It remains to be seen what effect the new health care reform will have.  I have Medicare and some Medicaid.  Some are saying that the things Medicare covers will be cut, but we will just have to wait and see on that.  Currently, Medicare pays 80% of costs.  Medicaid pays my monthly Medicare premium and the premium for my prescription drug plan.  Sometimes, they will also pick up other things, like blood work in the hospital.

Hugs,

Connie

Posted 11/18/2009 1:11 AM (GMT 0)
Connie,

Praying for you! I am glad you are getting the scan done sooner than later. If anything, it will give you peace of mind....and a plan to move forward. Please do let us know as soon as you know something.

God Bless,

Mer

Posted 11/18/2009 1:30 AM (GMT 0)

Will do, Mer.  It's good to see you!

Hugs,

Connie

Posted 11/18/2009 5:01 PM (GMT 0)
Dear Connie.
It is odd with the big differences in how each country organizes its health system.
Not just between the U.S. and Europe, even here in Europe there are big differences. My wife is from Spain and there has been almost the same organization as USA.
Here in Denmark, all hospital treatment is free of charge. We have a public hospital and a private. This means that one can obtain insurance for treatment at a private hospital. It did a lot, because there was some waiting time at the public hospital. It is still there, but who lives in Denmark, has a treatmentgaraty. If public hospitals can`t treat within 1 month, you can go to a private hospital. Treatment is then paid by the State.
about medicine. Here all are secured a grant from the state. This grant calculated from how much medication you need in a year. The first 800, - DKK (approx. 100 $) you pay yourself and then grant increased, the more medicine you need.
Posted 11/18/2009 5:06 PM (GMT 0)

Day/month/year her in europe

Posted 11/18/2009 6:12 PM (GMT 0)

Thanks for the info, John.  Are your taxes high?

Hugs,

Connie

Posted 11/18/2009 7:50 PM (GMT 0)
around 30-34 %, depends your income.

John

Posted 11/18/2009 8:52 PM (GMT 0)
Not as bad as I thought.  I heard they are 50% in England.

Posted 11/18/2009 11:02 PM (GMT 0)
Fingers crossed Connie that it is just a spot. Even a bit of cirrhosis is better than more of the big C. You've had enough of that!

Take care,
Posted 11/19/2009 12:36 AM (GMT 0)

Thanks, Dany.  I do have cirrhosis, so I'm hoping that's all it is.  I read your other post and am glad you are doing well.  I hope that you will be able to continue on the Imuran.

Hugs,

Connie

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