As most of you know Brian was recently diagnosed with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. I am starting a blog to keep everyone informed with new information about the cancer and his treatment as it arises. It's far easier than calling or texting everyone. I may still continue to do mass emails so the info may be redundant at times. This blog will look different from the one I did for Sky because that one was designed not only as a place to update everyone but also somewhere to vent my frustrations and feelings about the situation. Brian is nervous about this sounding depressing and we are all staying optimistic and positive, so in that vein this blog will be for informational purposes only and remain positive.
The diagnosis: After finding a lump in his neck Brian went to the doctor for an evaluation. They proceeded with the removal of 2 tumors in his lymph node on the right side. After the biopsy was performed the results came back positive for metastatic squamous cell carcinoma with an unknown primary. We are currently searching for the primary in his body on order to move forward with a treatment plan.
To date: Brian had a PET/CT scan yesterday. The radiology report came back and showed nothing in his system except the metastasis in his lymph nodes we were already aware of. We are very happy to find that it has seemingly not spread all over his body. The down side is we have still not located the primary which will dictate the necessary course of treatment. The next step is to do a triple endoscopy by an ENT. We have an appt set up with an ENT at City of Hope on June 3.
Unfortunately, we do not have any more answers than that at this time. I think it is the waiting that is the most difficult. In the Johnson house we are convinced that this is only an obstacle and will be overcome!
I will try to keep this updated as frequently as I can and as information is unfolded. Thank you all for your support and prayers.
