As you may remember, my last blood test was done about a month ago. The tumor marker test for the CEA was high. The safe range is between 0 and 2.5. My result came back 3.1. By itself, this does not mean that the cancer is coming back, but the fact that my markers have been rising since my surgery last Feb (although until now, they have all been below 2.5) had me worried. My oncologist didn't seem too concerned and said I shouldn't be either. Of course that is easy for him to say.
I was pretty upset when I got the results last month, but after a few days got back to realizing that none of us are promised a tomorrow and that we should live life one day at a time.
For now, I have a new blood test scheduled for Tuesday. Yeah, I'm nervous. I mean, what if the CEA level continues to rise? Does that mean more chemo? Another surgery? Right now, I'm praying the levels go back down.
All prayers for a good result will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your continued support, concern and prayers.
Kevin
I know how terrified you are. You don't know me, but I've been there, and I'm there again now. I had Hodgkins when I was 17, almost 18 years ago, and then ovarian cancer at 24. I don't go get screened like I should, simply because the wait for the results is a never ending nightmare. My husband talked me into going for a screen, and I did. My CEA came back 2.7. The doctor wouldn't tell me whether it was good or bad, but given my history, he is suspicious. Since I don't have a recent test to compare it to, I'm stuck waiting a few months until I get another test.
ReplyDeleteI know the nervousness, the terror, the "what if" factor. I'm there. I hate this feeling. I hate the feeling of being so concerned with me.
Hang in there. From the sound of your posts, it seems your results are going back to norm. That's a good sign. :)