Me = 2 Cancer = Big Fat 0

Ok, so I went and had my PET/CT scan done early this morning at MDACC. I was pretty calm and relaxed considering this test would show any cancer activity. Normally, results don't get back to the doctor until the next day. So when I went in to see my doctor to discuss rescheduling the mobilization chemo since my insurance had not yet approved the procedure, I was completely shocked and surprised when the first thing out of her mouth was that I was in REMISSION!! It didn't sink in at first, so I asked her to repeat that. Of course, I started bawling and hugging her. I was hoping for remission and felt good, but I was not thinking she would have the results so soon. WOOHOO!!! I thanked God, I thanked my doctor, I thanked all my friends and family across the country praying for me. Thank you.

So, back to the sct process. My insurance case manager said I should have an approval either late this afternoon or definitely Monday. Now, we're looking at admission to the hospital either Tuesday or Wednesday. And for some more good news, I will only be getting 3 days of chemo and not 5. What a relief! Could this day get any better??? My onc said if there are any cancer cells lingering around that did not show up on the PET, these next two rounds of chemo will get rid of it. Not only did I get the awesome news that the cancer is gone, but I also get to spend the next few days feeling good and relaxing before the next part of this process begins.

There are two other young gentlemen who are going through the same exact treatment and we're scheduled to have the sct around the same time. It'll be nice to know I won't be alone on the sct floor during my 3 week stay. :)

I have been so appreciative and grateful for all the angels around me. I normally don't play the 'cancer card', but after reading Crazy, Sexy Cancer Tips that my dear friend Melinda sent there was a whole section on this, and some people have asked how they could reach me at the hospital. So, if you feel like sending me something to rally me on, I will gladly accept it. I mean, if I can't ask for gifts when I have cancer then when can I?!? :) So, while I'm in the hospital for the 3 week stay I will gladly be accepting gifts, cards and/or balloons of all kinds - Happy Birthday, Get Well, Congrats, Just Because...LOL!! But please don't feel obligated, I promise to still love you with or without the gifts....pinky promise!

Here is how you can reach me:

Brandy H. Vargas
The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
1515 Holcombe Blvd
Houston, TX 77030
1-800-392-1611 / 1-713-792-6161

But, first things first. I need to collect these stem cells and that will get done over the next few weeks. So, off to celebrate with my family the wonderful news we got today. Keep those prayers coming, they are so working!!!!

With Much, Much Love,
B