My energy levels and fitness seem to have returned, after an unpleasant bout of flu (maybe I should have got a flu shot?) so I'm feeling pretty good - certainly ready for the next round of treatment.

I will go back to Edmonton on May 3, for a second PET scan, which they will assess to decide whether I should have further treatment. I finally heard that the report from my last visit was "no significant change" since the one before. I'm still hoping there may be an accumulative effect of the MIBG treatment that's better than that. But, of course no change is better than growth! If I am treated after the PET scan results are reviewed, it will be as an outpatient, getting a lesser dose and just staying in isolation for a few hours rather than days. Then, most likely, the usual MIBG scan on the following Monday.

My genetic test, for SDHB mutation, has been sent off to the University of Pittsburgh for identification. They managed to get the test in this year's budget after all. I hope to get the results in around six weeks. SDHB does seem to be frequently associated with Paragangliomas but I'll wait until positive, or negative, identification for more on that. If negative, they will test for the other gene mutations; if positive, well, I don't know - it will be interesting.

I've just returned from my back garden. The sun is out, and sugar snap peas are just poking their tips above the ground (ready for the slugs!) After what seemed like weeks of rain, maybe it really is spring this time.