We have some great news to share! Had my PET scan on the 14th which picked up on only one spot in my whole body! My internal organs, bones, and previous spots, including my liver and L thigh, are all clear. The spot that showed up is one of my 2 open wounds on my L lower leg, and it isn't unusual for the inflammation and gas release of wounds to show. They use a measurement called a SUV to note the amount of the glucose that is absorbed when administered during the PET scan. If it is higher than 4 they consider it cancer and mine measures a 3.4. I have had some tumors measure up to 17. I saw my U of M oncologist today and he thinks this is one of the 5 spots we found on the last scan and that we have done radiation to it already so we will not plan any treatment to it at this time.  I won't see him for 6 months, but will follow up with my oncologist in St Cloud here and there, do PET scans every 3 months, and do blood work ups monthly for now. When I asked him if he thinks we "got it" he said "I think so"! We obviously will know more if the next few PET scans come out clean. I am cautious in saying this as my type of cancer has a high rate of recurrence and I know I will always worry when the next bought will happen. But for now I am going to breath a sigh of relief and praise God for carrying me through this difficult 2 1/2 years.
I have been feeling "almost normal"(whatever that is) these past few weeks. I by no means have the same body as I did before as over 50 rounds of chemo and 46 rounds of radiation do not leave you undamaged. I used to think chemo side effects mainly involved nausea and vomiting, but those are minor compared to all of the long term damage that occurs. My present problems include significant neuropathy  (numbness) in my legs, feet, and hands, blurred vision (probably from chemo induced cataracts), 75 lb weight loss(have recently gained back 5 lbs, and did need to lose many lbs before my illness, but not this way),deep scarring from the open tumors, some long term bowel/bladder issues, aching joints, weakness, decreased immunities, weird skin problems, and of course hair loss twice (although it is coming back gray and a little curly again so that is fine!). I do have to keep a look out for Graft vs Host disease as I gradually cut back on some of the anti rejection drugs. This would usually show up as skin rashes, intestinal issues, or liver issues. Although I have talked to several other stem cell transplant patients that have various other ailments so could show up anywhere. The U Dr says that anything out of the ordinary should be brought up to them and they will decide what it is and how to treat it.

We have other great news in that our son, Collin, got engaged last month and is getting married on March 9 here in Sauk Centre!! (She is not pregnant as many may suspect!) They will have a small ceremony of immediate family, and some talk of a reception this summer. We are very happy to include Morgan as part of our family! We have also been blessed with another grandson born January 18 in Rochester to Joe and Amber. We have not yet met Stuart Allen Denny, but expect to on March 9! He makes grandchild number 16!!

So we have exciting times and much to be thankful for. I can't express enough appreciation for the support I have received from family, friends, my medical team, and even complete strangers in the past 2 1/2 years. I would appreciate continued prayers as I heal from the treatments, and for continued encouraging findings in the months/years to come. I am so grateful for all of the blessings in my life and am thankful for all that have followed my story with positive vibes and encouragement, this has helped me significantly with this battle.  Feeling blessed!!