General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsSome news for all:
Update from my PET scan:
Here's the link to my post about the PET scan: https://www.democraticunderground.com/100220865668
I had the scan done on 12-16-2025. It was more than a week before I got the results, and they were not what I'd hoped to see.
The cancer in my right lung had not shrunk at all. But it hadn't grown, which is a positive note. Still, I'd wanted it to shrink!
And there were new findings: 3 lymph nodes outside my right lung had shown up. Two were considered suspicious for nodal metastases. The third one is larger and may be amenable to ultrasound tissue sampling if clinically indicated.
So there we have it. Needless to say, I have been intensely preoccupied with wondering where my path is headed. I really debated about posting on these unfortunate developments, esp. at this time of year. But all of you have been so supportive! I really need it now.
As before, I will give each of you a recommendation after I've read what you wrote. I appreciate all of you!
blogslug
(39,081 posts)❤️❤️❤️❤️
SuzyandPuffpuff
(394 posts)Sorry yr going thru this. Cancer is insidious.hopefully you're comfy with your medical staff. I hope you're not in too much pain and if Yu can find time to laff try watching comedians and comedy shows. Laughing is good for endorphin release I think. At any rate it's fun. Good luck
Rhiannon12866
(249,559 posts)Meanwhile, we need to ramp up those healing DU vibes which you sure deserve!
3catwoman3
(28,519 posts)Last edited Sun Dec 28, 2025, 06:24 AM - Edit history (1)
If the support of people who care about you makes a difference, youll have it by the ton here in our beloved community.
Wishing you strength, courage, and serenity.
Maru Kitteh
(31,213 posts)How strange that our bodies are at once our only home and also such strange and alien places at times. You have my warmest wishes for comfort and peace.
applegrove
(130,048 posts)Solly Mack
(96,292 posts)I love you, Peggy.
montanacowboy
(6,671 posts)Stay positive it's important. Question your doctors and believe they are giving the right advice. Keep your DU family in the loop.
irisblue
(36,695 posts)regnaD kciN
(27,434 posts)Bayard
(28,416 posts)Sending many good thoughts your way. You know we love you, dear!
orleans
(36,656 posts)sometimes i wonder what the hell the universe is doing by adding these negative events in our lives and upping our stress levels --
especially at this point in time.
sending you a hug and positive thoughts and love. (and a donut for good measure)
electric_blue68
(25,687 posts))))))healing*vibes(((((...CaliforniaPeggy.
choie
(6,529 posts)My heart is with you!
LoisB
(12,280 posts)ShazamIam
(3,020 posts)people
(827 posts)I hope your treatment and healing are underway very soon and that it won't be very long before you find out that it's all working. Take very good care of yourself. You and your team can do this!
rubbersole
(10,971 posts)Sending positive thoughts and vibes your way. Hoping future test results are what you want them to be. Your gentle decency is second to none. We're thinking about you.
markodochartaigh
(4,940 posts)Positive thoughts should come to you all of the time, no matter the time of year.
stage left
(3,191 posts)I second Suzy Puffpuff's advice. Seek out comedy, comedians(Josh Johnson is a good one) funny movies and laugh as much as you can. I lost my husband during the worst of the pandemic, before there was any vaccine. I credit Bill Hader of SNL and his silliness as Stefon with keeping me sane. It can't hurt. Right. And keep taking your oh so beautiful photographs. I've never seen such sexy vegetables nor been so perfectly mooned Hugs
Permanut
(7,955 posts)One day at a time you will get through this. There are thousands, hundreds of thousands, millions of survivors of cancer, including my wife.
Note to Universe: CalifoniaPeggy's attendance here is required for the foreseeable future.
niyad
(129,390 posts)Biophilic
(6,390 posts)I'm so glad you have such a wonderful family (including your one at DU) to support you and help you move through these challenges. Your photographs always make me smile and I hope the spirit that has produced them will continue to support you.
BidenRocks
(2,710 posts)Holding it in makes things harder.
Thank you for sharing.
Go Science!
KitFox
(503 posts)that miserable old tumor has not grown. The more information your team is armed with, the better they can tailor treatments that will kick the stuffing out of that damnable c word. If anyone can climb this mountain, it is you with all of your courage, zest for living and appreciation for all the beauty that surrounds you. Please never hesitate to keep us updated because we all care so much and want to collectively muster our healing energy and send it winging to you. I hope you are able to get some daily restorative sleep to help keep you strong and determined. Love and gentle hugs to you dear heart. 🩷🩷🩷
Buddyzbuddy
(2,061 posts)This is a marathon not a sprint. Everyday, every therapy treatment day, every testing day is different. I think the key is a good support system. Ask for help when you need it and never consider yourself a burden. Family members feel helpless and welcome the opportunity to be able to help in anyway possible. Even if it's just keeping you company during all of the appointments. I wish you a quick and painless process.
LuckyCharms
(21,520 posts)"The mind lives where the body lives".
It's so important to try to maintain a positive attitude.
Receiving unfavorable medical news is so scary and isolating.
However, please remember that you have good friends who care about you as a person. Hold on to that. Hold on to the well wishes that you receive here, because people care about you...draw strength from that.
Do your best to embrace positivity while following your treatment plan. The positivity will help you heal.
You have always shown kindness here. You have always been kind to me. Now Dear Peggy, it's time for you to embrace the caring that is being reflected back to you now. Concentrate on this caring, and use it as a tool to help keep your mind positive.
You're strong. And we care. I care about you.
malaise
(292,365 posts)Emile
(40,401 posts)Lean on us, we're all here for you Peggy.
markie
(23,818 posts)
let us help you stay positive
HAB911
(10,250 posts)SheltieLover
(76,288 posts)I am so saddened to hear your right lung is not yet clear, but will keep sending healing vibes to you.
livetohike
(23,958 posts)steps in obliterating this unwanted intruder. Your medical team will figure it out and the power of all of our good thoughts will carry you on your journey to good results.
cachukis
(3,637 posts)Niagara
(11,424 posts)I believe that most of us would be intensely preoccupied with wondering where our paths are headed with this unfortunate news.
There's plenty of people here that love you even though we've never met face to face.
You've always been kind to others. You're appreciated and loved here. Please know that.
Sending healthy and positive vibes your way.
farmbo
(3,147 posts)sinkingfeeling
(57,113 posts)Swede
(38,242 posts)You'll be in my thoughts Peggy.
PCIntern
(27,957 posts)Follow doctors advice: its the Best Odds approach.
Wishing you the best.
PC
Kid Berwyn
(22,768 posts)When challenged by nature and circumstance, I try to remember we are blessed to be part of this:

Source: https://rubinobservatory.org/
Remember, my Sister and Friend, that in all the cosmos, there is only one YOU. You are a reflection of the What made this. And in every way that is good, You are perfect.
marble falls
(70,642 posts)malthaussen
(18,376 posts)Recovery may take more time than you'd like, which sucks, but it beats the alternative.
-- Mal
duhneece
(4,473 posts)My DU sister, I care so much about you.
Im grateful for everything you have shared, the good, the bad and the ugly.
murielm99
(32,654 posts)It is not much, but I hope it helps.
CaptainTruth
(8,029 posts)KS Toronado
(22,950 posts)Still pissed off Gropenfuhrer and Musk killed so much cancer research in this country. Truly believe
scientists would find a cancer cure eventually.

radical noodle
(10,474 posts)Friends just do that for one another. A friend of mine had a "cancer buddy" as she made her journey through all the treatments and ups & downs of recovery. Let us be your cancer buddies. Never worry about burdening us, we'll share that burden and make it lighter for you. Much love to you, Peggy!
ms liberty
(10,943 posts)Sometimes the bad news is the precursor of good results. We love you and I know I'm not the only one sending you healing and hugs.
niyad
(129,390 posts)headed your way. hugggggggggs. Your DU family is here for you. Lean as hard as you need.
a kennedy
(35,228 posts)milestogo
(22,486 posts)I wish you the very best.
bluestarone
(21,087 posts)It is nice to have like a second family that really care for each other. Please continue sharing any news you receive.
highplainsdem
(59,719 posts)what you'd hoped to see, but it is a positive note that the cancer in your right lung hadn't grown. I don't know how long you were on Tagrisso before the scan, but possibly more time was needed for the drug to help. And there are other therapies, which could have fewer side effects. I was just rereading your earlier health updates and saw nothing about surgery after you'd posted about being okayed for the operation in mid-November after you'd had the two tests you'd needed, and passed both. So I'm wondering if possibly the surgery is still planned, just postponed till after the holidays, with Tagrisso tried first, since its shrinking the tumor could make surgery unnecessary or at least simpler.
Apologies if I'd missed an update on the surgery.
Clouds Passing
(6,875 posts)Healing and comfort energies to you 💚💖
mwmisses4289
(3,155 posts)Polly Hennessey
(8,535 posts)LuvLoogie
(8,482 posts)Trueblue Texan
(4,174 posts)for a more effective treatment. You have a positive attitude which always helps in healing; you are surrounded by a lot of love and support which is very healing in itself. Whatever happens, and I hope it's all positive from here, you are loved and appreciated for all that you do. Peace and healing to you and your family.
Deuxcents
(25,400 posts)But were here for you with prayers, positivity and encouragement for you and your family on this health and wellbeing journey. In this New Year that brings so much hope, ya never know what these great doctors and scientists will be able to do. 🌺
Richluu
(152 posts)We appreciate knowing what's going on. Cancer cells live on sugar, you've probably already cut that out! We all send you blessings!
HeartsCanHope
(1,518 posts)Sorry about the 3 lymph nodes outside the lung, but hopefully there is some way to address them without too much
discomfort for you. Sending lots of love and healing vibes, CaliforniaPeggy! You are in my thoughts.
Diamond_Dog
(39,694 posts)Im sorry you didnt get the news you were hoping for, but this isnt anything that cant be taken care of, either. Surgeon took out 12 lymph nodes in my right armpit when I had my cancer surgery and that was 18 years ago. Its unsettling news, for sure
. I will keep good thoughts for you always.
TBF
(35,531 posts)as a chronic health warrior, I know how unsettling some of the updates can be. I learned with a massive blood clot in my late 40s that each day is a gift. I hope your doctors are helping with pain control, so you can get out a bit and enjoy those days. I find walks with my dog to be very invigorating (well, when he doesn't pull me towards the squirrels and ducks!). We are here for you!
Vinca
(53,269 posts)bigtree
(93,320 posts)...but still connecting with the things and folks who matter to you.
Clearly it's your love and care for others which makes your world go round, and that's such a beautiful thing. Love is a beautiful thing, Peggy, and you are very much love, and loved.
Keep the good stuff coming, dear lady.
Easterncedar
(5,447 posts)It sounds like you are getting good care. May the next news be of a turn to the best.
Grumpy Old Guy
(4,211 posts)popsdenver
(1,465 posts)but know our hearts are with you................
Dem_in_Nebr.
(334 posts)My sense is that you will keep on trying to find a way to beat this "thing". And if it wins, well, you have let go down with out a fight. In the mean time, peace, love and joy surround you and yours;
Wild blueberry
(8,106 posts)Sending love and healing from my forest nearby.
All the best.
We love you.
bsiebs
(924 posts)Laffy Kat
(16,850 posts)Phentex
(16,685 posts)Your path is yours. We will be here for you. We will be here with you. Share with us whatever you feel like sharing but know that we will be here sending love and positivity over the internet
bluescribbler
(2,473 posts)I lost my wife to cancer sixteen years ago, just after Thanksgiving. I hate the journey she was on, and I hate the journey you are on. I wish there were something I could do for you.
pandr32
(13,746 posts)I'm sorry you are dealing with this. Please keep us posted about what you are undergoing to try to slay this beast and we will do our part and send love your way.
MineralMan
(150,567 posts)I have no idea what your best move might be. I don't even know what I would do. So, I'll just wish you the best and hope things work out as you hope.
Dave says
(5,315 posts)While my cancer has not shrunk, it has not grown. Ive been stable no progression for 7 years.
A friend of ours was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer. She, too, has survived without progression. In her case its been over 3 years.
So keep hoping! Treatments have advanced a century in just the last decade!! Could cures be around the corner for the bunch of us? They may be.
NNadir
(37,234 posts)...to specific oncogenetic mutations in the EGFR protein, some of which are single nucleotide polymorphisms, and others, Exon 19 deletions. It is generally not given without gene mapping of the tumor genetics, which suggests to me that the tumor genes are being monitored.
To me this means you are having top line care.
This technique of monitoring genes (and outgrowth of Clinton era support for science) places the battle against cancer on a new level.
I am not competent to say much more, other than we all care deeply about you and all hope that your prognosis will improve and that modern genetic tools and appropriate drug cocktails will bring you a cure.
All the best to our Manhattan Beach DU wonder.
MarineCombatEngineer
(17,584 posts)Cancer is an insidious disease, one that doesn't care about race, creed, religion, what one's politics are, it's an all inclusive nightmare.
Thank you for keeping us updated and know that your DU family is pulling for you and your family during this stressful time in yours and their lives.
Sending thoughts, prayer, hugs and kisses to you and your family.
spooky3
(38,234 posts)Always be here.
mountain grammy
(28,647 posts)Still hoping for the best. Youre in my thoughts 🥰
peggysue2
(12,372 posts)Cancer is an unpredictable beast but it can be defeated or tamed into a manageable, though chronic disease. My husband had a number of decisions to make with his initial diagnosis and plowed forward taking the advice of the surgeon and subsequent radiation department.
It's hard, scary and exhausting.
Here's hoping for many months, years of quality living which in the end is what it's all about.
Take care of yourself.
So glad you're keeping the DU tribe updated.
mr715
(2,616 posts)Do they have you on immunotherapy? Did you do genetic tests?
gademocrat7
(11,795 posts)Sending you a huge bouquet of hugs, prayers, support, strength and love.
We are with you on this journey.
💙🤗🙏
sellitman
(11,740 posts)I send hugs and hope your prognoses get better soon.
Hekate
(100,132 posts)yardwork
(68,903 posts)You have brought a lot of joy and happiness to literally countless people.
You are good people.
Ms. Toad
(38,128 posts)I have a half-dozen friends and relatives with last stage cancer, at the moment.
My cousin is having some success at Mayo for treatment of her newly diagnosed lung cancer. Her second opinion facility. I always recommend getting a second opinion at a cancer center which specializes in your specific cancer. A second set of eyes is almost always helpful.
I'm sorry for your less than ideal news. I wish you luck.
chowder66
(11,779 posts)spanone
(140,927 posts)Sending lots of love ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
1WorldHope
(1,840 posts)I adore you and I have never even met you. Life is very much a great mystery. All we can do in live in the moment that we are in and be grateful for it. A friend gave me a plaque that says, "We're all walking each other home." I thought that was a sweet thought. We love you CaliforniaPeggy forever and ever. 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙
senseandsensibility
(24,208 posts)Beartracks
(14,337 posts)I have a friend who's been undergoing some serious chemo for lung cancer which had been spreading to other organs. Her doctors have been closely balancing the chemo (originally by IV, but then via a kind of direct "wash" into the peritoneal cavity) with her bloodwork and her own health and tolerance, and they managed to shrink things down over the course of the year. I think she switches to a different ongoing treatment regimen -- maybe oral? -- in January. I know that different biologies and different cancers require specific approaches and customized treatment plans, but I thought I'd share that my friend has impressed her doctors with her grit and progress and outcomes thus far. All while still working a full-time job and being a family matriarch. If anyone can kick cancer's ass, it's her.
And your clear-headed strength in facing this battle reminds me of her a lot.
=================
dickthegrouch
(4,271 posts)May you continue to contribute to our lives as we wish, in any way we can, to contribute to yours.
cate94
(3,047 posts)Im sorry you are going through this and will keep you in my prayers.
Turbineguy
(39,810 posts)Omaha Steve
(108,353 posts)Keep us up date.
OS
GoneOffShore
(17,974 posts)We're thinking about you here in Aix.
I read your FB post this AM while I was having my coffee.

IndyPepper
(60 posts)Your DU family is here for you, Peggy. Thanks for sharing your journey with us so we can encourage and pray for you during this trying time. I've survived three bouts of cancer so I'm familiar with PET scans and chemotherapy. The truth is that there is a path forward, and treatments are getting more effective every year. I once asked my cancer doctor what I could do to help me make it through my ordeal and she said, "Try not to worry." Hard to do, but good advice. So, hang in there Peggy. We're all rooting for you.
wendyb-NC
(4,597 posts)I will hold you in the light for a change that is nothing short of a miracle, for you. May you have the time to complete your fulfillment.
You are one of my favorite, must read posters, here on DU. I call out to the universe, the resistance and resisters, need Peggy!
appleannie1
(5,407 posts)They said 3 months without chemo. Longer with it, maybe 8 months or so. He fooled them all. After chemo and radiation and another biopsy he had only dead cancer cells in his lung and the half dollar size spot on his liver was gone. None of his lymph nodes showed any signs either. He had 5 good years after that before he died of something else. Don't give up. Stay positive and fight the good fight.
EarthAbides
(417 posts)After having been on the Cancer Ledge twice, I can relate. I have been cancer free for 14 years now, every year I move further and further away from the Ledge. Reach out to people who can help you back away from that Ledge. It is not going to cure you but it will really help deal with the anxiety that comes with cancer. I was creative with fabric during my chemo and radiation time. I tried to stay busy. This also helped keep me away from the Ledge. Another thing I kept thinking about was why is cancer treatment so barbaric, so prehistoric? This anger helped me get through the dark times and also helped keep me away from the Ledge. I wish you all the best, but I know it is hard. Keep reaching out, it will help, a lot.
Dear_Prudence
(1,033 posts)if you need it. DU friends like me can offer some support, but we aren't hands-on. First time I had cancer, I had little support and had to keep it a secret at work because it was a new job (bulky jacket to hide radiation burns, snoozing in the ladies room during lunch break.) Second time I had cancer, I let the medical team know that I needed support. They hooked me up with counseling, a free workout class for cancer patients, a meal service, and other tangible support. (I am in remission.) Keep asking if your first attempt at asking doesn't yield results. I wish you all the best.
proud patriot
(102,370 posts)calimary
(88,922 posts)This thread has a whole lot of love, support, and healing vibes in it. Itll do you good on this part of your journey.
Hugs!
summer_in_TX
(4,024 posts)These days, the most amazing things can be done to save lives when cancer is involved. Even when it's metastasized into lymph nodes. I don't know what's available where you live, but M.D. Anderson in Houston does amazing cutting-edge work. My friend had an aggressive kidney cancer that had metastasized into some lymph nodes they discovered in removing that kidney. She went to M.D. Anderson for treatment and got the research doctor who had just completed the most recent clinical trials on a new treatment drug as her oncologist. Treatment was far from a picnic, especially with just one kidney. She couldn't take as many doses as recommended and had to be on dialysis for a few months after the chemotherapy. But five years later she is still here. I hope there is a cutting-edge cancer research hospital near you, or that you decide to come to M.D. Anderson. Metastasized cancer sounds awful. But I want you to know the hope that is out there.
In the meantime, I'm praying for your healing.
pwb
(12,446 posts)God loves and welcomes. You have no worries Peggy. Peace to you.
FakeNoose
(40,053 posts)The good thing is that the medical professionals are doing a better job - even an awesome job - of finding things on MRIs and PET scans that they used to miss regularly. The technology is better, and people are being trained better too.
The sooner they find stuff, the sooner and better they can treat it. Please keep your hopes up and have a happy and joyful New Year.
orangecrush
(28,148 posts)joanbarnes
(2,072 posts)Miles Archer
(21,583 posts)...my heart goes out to you, Peggy.
I got my diagnosis, I had surgery, got the "cancer free" diagnosis, but am going in for different tests on Jan 8th.
"High Anxiety." That's been my last two years.
My wish for you is that you continue to find your strength, and peace, as you need it.
You have a lot of people here who care about you. I'm one of them. Stay strong.
Grim Chieftain
(1,167 posts)You are not alone. Your DU family is with you.
Fla Dem
(27,407 posts)You know we are all pulling for you and in each of our own ways, praying for a path that will give you a happier future.
SWBTATTReg
(26,012 posts)we're there.
Hang in there! You're our guiding light.
FemDemERA
(684 posts)No matter the news or timing, DU members care. Im sorry it wasnt what youd hoped for, but happy that at least the one had not grown, hopefully your doctors can attack the others and better news will come.
Wrapping you in DU Love and Hugs.
One of my favorite quotes:
You never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice. - Bob Marley
evolves
(5,730 posts)and so many supportive thoughts your way, my dear Peggy! You are a treasure and I wish you nothing but the best.
hamsterjill
(16,926 posts)I have nothing profound to say to you except that I'll have you in my prayers - as is my practice for things for which I have no control.
I've read recently that 2025 was the year of the Snake. When we are all shedding our skins, getting rid of the old, making changes, etc.
The new year 2026 will be the year of the Horse. Forward movement, grace, intelligence, and beauty. I am holding on to that thought for so many things right now. I am hopeful that 2026 is going to bring goodness to the world, and it would only be fitting if goodness was bestowed upon individuals such as yourself.
I do (myself) sincerely believe that where medical issues are concerned, attitude is everything. I know you maintain a very positive outlook and resolve and I am certain that will serve you well.
Wishing you only THE very best!!!!
Evolve Dammit
(21,440 posts)Lonestarblue
(13,201 posts)But it is positive that the can er had not grown. I know its hard to be patient when you want to see results, but hang in there. You have lots of supporters here and good vibes sent your way.
OAITW r.2.0
(31,402 posts)We love you here, CalPeg.
Flash953
(134 posts)Skittles
(169,315 posts)post updates so we are with you in this fight! Yes indeed.
mercuryblues
(16,157 posts)I know it sound strange, but it was a sigh of relief. I finally knew what I was up against and was able to plan my course of action. Not to say it was easy. I was in and out of the hospital for weeks at a time, as my body adjusted to chemo, cancer and infections. It allowed me to get in the frame of mind to say not today, Satan, not today.
You will learn words you never knew existed. You'll even say a few you do know. LOL
Let yourself feel the anger and the grace. You will not meet a more caring and compassionate group of Nurses and Dr's. To me they are special to care for people going through Cancer.
Don't forget to watch cat videos. Lots and lots of cat videos.
littlemissmartypants
(31,506 posts)tavernier
(14,241 posts)BUSY while you are doing it to keep your mind occupied and not driving you crazy. And when you need to kick snd scream, we are here.
FalloutShelter
(14,156 posts)You have the love of everyone in this community.
We are all sending healing vibes and our love.
❤️
DeeDeeNY
(3,897 posts)You are such an uplifting presence to all you come in contact with. Here's sending positive vibes for your health outlook to start getting brighter and brighter.
quaint
(4,604 posts)💛
oldtime dfl_er
(7,141 posts)and am both dismayed and a little bit heartened at your news (it isn't bigger!). The waiting for results is so hard! I continue to send whatever positive vibes I can pull from the stars to help you heal. Very best of luck.
MLAA
(19,660 posts)💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕