June 6, 2022, our own personal D-Day (Decision Day), as we returned to Madison, WI for an all-important PET scan and visits with the radiation/oncologist and hematologist/oncologist.  Enough time had passed since Val's twentieth and final radiation treatment to get a definitive read on whether the lymphoma is now at bay, or another course of treatment was required.

The scan and analysis showed strong findings that the cancer discovered eleven months ago is in remission.  "No definitive evidence of recurrent lymphoma" is the interpretation of the medical team at UW Health.  While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure accuracy, a follow-up visit is scheduled in three months, early September, to verify recovery continues on track.

One of her doctors stated if there is recurrence, it generally happens within 2-3 years.  Reach the five-year mark cancer free, and you are considered cured.  Val will be monitored and have periodic visits with this group or other specialists outside the UW health system.  

Next procedure will be to remove the port embedded in her upper right chest since chemotherapy is no longer required.

We learned far more about something we knew nothing about less than one year ago.  We, and Val in particular, were moved by the support from many of you that kept up with her challenges over these past eleven months.  All the encouragement, acts of kindness and prayers have meant so much and made this journey more manageable.  

All said, this will the final posting on Caring Bridge, as Val has stabilized.  No news is good news!

Thanks to all that followed this journal since last July.  

Greg & Val