Thursday, October 20, 2011

Initial Diagnosis

Yesterday (10/19/11), Case underwent a biopsy to determine the type of the tumor that was discovered in his abdomen near his pancreas, liver, and stomach. The team is 99% sure, based on what they've seen before, that it is a neuroblastoma, a type of cancerous tumor, and that it is at least a "stage III," presenting intermediate risk. Results from the biopsy should be received within a week, which will provide additional details about the tumor, and dictate the type of treatment that will be customized for Case.

The next step is to determine metastasis, or the movement of the cancer to other parts of Case's body. There do not appear to be any cancerous cells in Case's liver or pancreas, and the results of the bone marrow tests will reveal if any cancerous cells have spread to his marrow. A bone scan is also scheduled for tomorrow (Friday, 10/21). A MIBG test will determine if there are any cancerous cells in Case's lymph nodes and is expected to take place next Tuesday and Wednesday (10/25-26).

It is anticipated that chemotherapy will begin in about a week or so, and if he remains "intermediate risk," he will likely receive 6-8 chemo treatments in an attempt to shrink the tumor. Once the chemotherapy is completed and the tumor has been significantly reduced in size, it will most likely be removed surgically.

Currently, Case is recovering from the biopsy, and has an incision (approximately 3") on his lower abdomen and two smaller incisions on his lower back. They are watching his red blood cell count, and will give him a blood transfusion if necessary (to replenish blood platelets). We all felt pretty good about the doctors and the plan they presented today and we are very hopeful.

12 comments:

  1. Just wanted to let you know that we are praying for little Case up here in Seattle too.

    Much love, high hopes and prayers,
    Your Cousin,
    Amanda

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  2. I am so happy that this blog has been created. As brothers and sisters we care deeply for our loved ones and you guys are right there on top of our list. We pray for your family and the recovery and good news for our little Case. The power of prayer will help you get through this challenging and difficult time. We love you and offer our support to your family. Hang in there. That sound cliche, but at some moments that is all you may be able to do. Let those near you help you hold on when you feel to weak to do so yourself. You are surrounded with an army of loved one ready to help you with this fight!

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  3. Oh Em... Hang in there sweetie! I have only known you a short time, but I can see that you are a strong and determined woman... I'm sure Case has received those same traits from you. Hugs and Prayers your way...

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  4. Our thoughts and prayers have been with you constantly since you were on our porch last Sunday night and will continue to be through this entire journey. We admire your strength and courage and trust in the Lord. We love you all!!

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  5. We love you guys and have a prayer in our hearts always for Case and the family.

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  6. The Arnett family is praying for baby Case and your whole family. I pray God will comfort him and you.
    With love,
    The Arnett Family

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  7. Thank you for starting this blog, so we can pray for specific things that Case may need at certain times. We pray night and day as a family for all of you as well as throughout the day. I hope that you can feel all the prayers of those who love you and that it will help give you the strength you and Case need to get through this test. We love you and are ready to help with whatever you need.

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  8. Hello Wonderful Beckham Family,

    Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you- all day, every day and for how ever long it takes until sweet baby Case is healthy and home with his family.
    We love you all. xoxo

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  9. Hello Wonderful Beckham Family,

    Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you- all day, every day and for how ever long it takes until sweet baby Case is healthy and home with his family.
    We love you all. xoxo

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  10. I am loving this blog! Thanks for putting it up so we can all stay up to date on Case's progress and know what specifically to ask Heavenly Father for in our prayers. You are loved by many. At the service project today, so many people asked about you and told me they are also praying for you. Matt mentioned that Case laughed a little today. That totally mad my day! I love that little guy :)

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  11. We love you and are prayIng for you. Thank you for this blog. We look forward to updates so we can better know what to pray for and how to help!

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  12. Oh, guys. We just never know, do we? We will be thinking and praying for you!!

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