Heather is officially finished with her chemo treatments for now. The standard treatment is 6 months on the Temador schedule after 6 weeks of radiation, and Heather lasted 10 months on it before her body said, "No more!" She is thrilled; she now saves $400 a month, and she won't have the infusions on Day 1 and Day 3 of her cycle and she won't have side effects. Both Jon and I are so happy for her, but taking her off something that has worked is very difficult for us as well. Heather's cancer has been treated aggressively, so I don't think we can ask for more - right now anyway. We return to UCSF December 8 for her first MRI/MRS not on chemo.
What next? As for Heather's treatment plan, we just wait. I don't think there are any plans to do anything right now unless something inside her little head starts to change. Right now her blood count is good; her MRI looks good (still a tumor, but it isn't growing); her life is good. She can sit back and enjoy spending her parents money on her wedding instead of medical bills. Even Jon and I like that :)
Monster Bash - what fun! Even though the weather worked against us, people supported the cause. Pictures will be posted on the site soon. It was a good night of fun, fabulous music, awesome people, and yummy food. What more could we ask for? Costumes were quite detailed and unique. I think almost half of the guests worse costumes, which added to the atmosphere.
Every year I meet wonderful people who have been stricken with brain cancer in some form - either as a care giver, a friend, a spouse, or a patient. I am also amazed at the strength these people have. This year, two people who lost their husbands to brain cancer donated time and support to the evening. Susan M. lost her husband almost three years ago to GBM; and Joey E. lost her young husband last spring to it as well. In fact, Joey's husband is the young man who went to elementary school with Heather. Also in attendance were four people who are currently surviving brain cancer: Heather, Courtney, Matt, and Ryan. They are the faces of those who are winning the battle. And of course, there were moms, wives, fathers, and so many friends who all supported an evening of fun, laughter, music, and a costume contest :) With the 50 plus raffle prizes and the silent auction items, we were busy all night. Old Chicago certainly knows how to host an event! Chasing Daylight knows how to play for an event! And, Mark Kresl knows how to photograph an event! We had it all!
What next? First, we are planning another November "national" Pampered Chef party. Michele needs to get busy with that ASAP! In January and February, LFAC will host another fundraiser with the UNO hockey team. More on that later. Spring time? We hope to add Hy-Vee to our list of supporters and have a car show in June. Then it will be back to Wear-Gray-for-a Day and Monster Bash.
So, with Heather in-check, our focus returns to our good friend Bob. He has to remain positive as he continues his battle with lymphoma. He beat it once four years ago, and now his enemy returned for Round 2. This time, it is stronger, so Bob has to fight harder. We are all praying and remaining positive that he will continue to light the way for Heather and she for him. She looks to him for her strength to beat the odds, so their tag-team is a unit. Not a night falls without some serious praying in our home, and some nights long conversations with Him go well into the night.
Once again I end with hope for the future, blessings for the present, and learning from the past.
Men may give up, doctors may give up, but God never gives up. We must remember never to give up!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Good News; Scary News
Good news is always easy to handle - usually. The good news is that Heather's scans this month are again stable. Her tumor is not active and the area around the tumor looks good. The Temador has done its job, which has provided us security. However, Heather's body is starting to react to the chemo. Each month her white cell counts and platelets dip lower. Her October chemo had to be postponed. Therefore, Dr. Chang feels it is time to stop the chemo. WAIT! Stop what is working? To me, that is scary. I told Dr. Chang, "I'm scared to have her stop chemo." Dr. Chang's simple and firm reply: "I'm scared to have her stay on it."
The compromise? Monitor Heather's blood weekly and make the final decision in 4 weeks. Of course, Heather is elated to be finished, and who can blame her. But I love my security blanket. The next step if she is finished with chemo is to continue MRIs and MRSs every 2 months and then slip into every 3 months. What? Another step away from another security? Even Dr. Chang doesn't like losing that security, but eventually it is what we want - I guess. It means good news, not bad. But it is scary.
Interestingly, we again met someone by chance who knows about brain cancer and Dr. Chang. We were looking for the vision clinic for a future appointment for my brother-in-law (which is another scary situation) and we (my sister and Heather and I) were somewhat lost at UCSF. We finally found the ocular-oncologist's office but could not find our way out. We bumped into a nice woman who helped us out of the maze. As we were walking, she asked the usual questions and found out we had originally seen Dr. Chang. She shared with us that Dr. Chang kept her husband alive for 17 years with Anaplastic Astrocytoma. I did not ask when her husband died, but I did hear "alive for 17 years"! In 17 more years, I firmly believe there will be a cure and Heather will be BEAT this ugly monster!
Speaking of "monster," we are prepping for the 2nd annual Monster Bash. We are so pleased to have Old Chicago (Rock Bottom in some areas of the country) host this event and to have Chasing Daylight provide the live entertainment. Thursday, October 29 will be a big night for Leap-for-a-Cure. I will certainly be writing about it next blog. If you are interested in attending, just go to the "events" tab on our website for more information.
Our church - Hope Presbyterian - will be having a special cancer service on Sunday, October 18. We were honored that Pastor Dave asked for our input. I know the services will focus on hope and miracle, which is exactly what cancer patients and the families need.
This summer Dr. Chang has agreed to come to Omaha for a conference. She will be presenting to two different audiences: one for doctors and one for lay people. I will be working with Methodist Hospital and Estabrook Cancer Center for this BIG event! More on that later. But what brought a gulp and some tears was when Dr. Chang asked that we schedule it around Heather's wedding so that she can attend the wedding. If I could only begin to share my gratitude to and admiration for Dr. Chang . . . I will NEVER forget her and will ALWAYS admire her conviction to curing / treating brain cancer.
Until next entry, I wish everyone health and happiness. Today, I leave you with a poem that is fitting for all who have been diagnosed with cancer:
Cancer is so limited.
It cannot cripple love.
It cannot shatter hope.
It cannot corrode faith.
It cannot destroy peace.
It cannot kill friendship.
It cannot suppress memories.
It cannot silence courage.
It cannot invade the soul.
It cannot steal eternal life.
It cannot conquer the spirit.
What chance does cancer have with so many limitations?
The compromise? Monitor Heather's blood weekly and make the final decision in 4 weeks. Of course, Heather is elated to be finished, and who can blame her. But I love my security blanket. The next step if she is finished with chemo is to continue MRIs and MRSs every 2 months and then slip into every 3 months. What? Another step away from another security? Even Dr. Chang doesn't like losing that security, but eventually it is what we want - I guess. It means good news, not bad. But it is scary.
Interestingly, we again met someone by chance who knows about brain cancer and Dr. Chang. We were looking for the vision clinic for a future appointment for my brother-in-law (which is another scary situation) and we (my sister and Heather and I) were somewhat lost at UCSF. We finally found the ocular-oncologist's office but could not find our way out. We bumped into a nice woman who helped us out of the maze. As we were walking, she asked the usual questions and found out we had originally seen Dr. Chang. She shared with us that Dr. Chang kept her husband alive for 17 years with Anaplastic Astrocytoma. I did not ask when her husband died, but I did hear "alive for 17 years"! In 17 more years, I firmly believe there will be a cure and Heather will be BEAT this ugly monster!
Speaking of "monster," we are prepping for the 2nd annual Monster Bash. We are so pleased to have Old Chicago (Rock Bottom in some areas of the country) host this event and to have Chasing Daylight provide the live entertainment. Thursday, October 29 will be a big night for Leap-for-a-Cure. I will certainly be writing about it next blog. If you are interested in attending, just go to the "events" tab on our website for more information.
Our church - Hope Presbyterian - will be having a special cancer service on Sunday, October 18. We were honored that Pastor Dave asked for our input. I know the services will focus on hope and miracle, which is exactly what cancer patients and the families need.
This summer Dr. Chang has agreed to come to Omaha for a conference. She will be presenting to two different audiences: one for doctors and one for lay people. I will be working with Methodist Hospital and Estabrook Cancer Center for this BIG event! More on that later. But what brought a gulp and some tears was when Dr. Chang asked that we schedule it around Heather's wedding so that she can attend the wedding. If I could only begin to share my gratitude to and admiration for Dr. Chang . . . I will NEVER forget her and will ALWAYS admire her conviction to curing / treating brain cancer.
Until next entry, I wish everyone health and happiness. Today, I leave you with a poem that is fitting for all who have been diagnosed with cancer:
Cancer is so limited.
It cannot cripple love.
It cannot shatter hope.
It cannot corrode faith.
It cannot destroy peace.
It cannot kill friendship.
It cannot suppress memories.
It cannot silence courage.
It cannot invade the soul.
It cannot steal eternal life.
It cannot conquer the spirit.
What chance does cancer have with so many limitations?
Monday, September 21, 2009
What Next? Or, Where to Begin?
So much has happened in the past four weeks that I'm not certain I can write in a logical manner. All has happened since my father-in-law's passing or started during his illness.
Heather and Mike have decided to get married. We are thrilled that they will be taking the next step in their relationship. They have certainly shared more intimate challenges than many couples have to face for years and years, so I believe they are a strong couple. Planning a "simple" wedding is starting to be fun and certainly takes our minds off the brain cancer. These two deserve something fun and memorable and positive to plan. Date will either be July 31 or August 7. We are waiting for another couple to decide on their date at the UNO Alumni House. Mike and Heather are 2nd in line for July 31. We should know by Wednesday. Next? Heather has chosen her wedding gown and attendants' dresses - at least her first choice. Flowers: Gerber Daisies. The colors should be so bright and hopeful.
During all this excitement, we have been working on Monster Bash, which is Thursday, October 29 at the downtown Old Chicago Restaurant. Check out the "events" link on our website for more information. Jon has been working hard to obtain Silent Auction items, and he has done well. In addition, we obtained free garage parking for the evening when Monster Bash attendees present a voucher. The band "Chasing Daylight" will be playing; and good food, a special brewed beer, costume contest, and raffle prizes will be available. We are so excited for our 2nd Annual Monster Bash.
On October 4, Bike Masters at 129/Fort will be hosting a bike ride in memory of Seth Embrey, who lost his battle with brain cancer last spring. Interestingly, Seth and Heather went to elementary school together. The bike ride is a 100, 62, or 30 mile ride. Entry is free, but LFAC donations are suggested. LFAC is honored to support another meaningful event for brain cancer awareness. For more information, see the "events" link on our website.
"Wear Gray for a Day" celebrated its second year on Friday, October 18. From Omaha to Atlanta to several other areas in the United States, the event was honored. Many cancer groups and organizations tweeted about this event for weeks prior. I heard from one person today who has asked to be become involved after her friend wore gray on Friday. Another business contacted us about supporting our cause. Time will tell how many people may have been touched, but one person more is a step forward.
Heather has been feeling fairly well. However, her platelets and white cell counts were too low last week for her chemo. So, she was supposed to try again today, but she came down with the flu late Saturday night. She was sick all day Sunday and began running a steady fever early Sunday night. After a phone call to the oncologist, we were off to the ER. SIX HOURS later (4:30 am to be exact) we were home. She received a Nupergen shot, another antibiotic, and Tamiflu - but no pneumonia. They tried to do a flu test on her - tube inserted through the nose to goodness knows where - but Heather did not fare too well. We decided that we did not care what flu she has since all Type As are treated the same. The fever remains, so no work for a few days. She must remain fever free for 48 hours. I did not feel so great when the medical personnel looked at me and said, "You will be getting this." We are all on Tamiflu.
Lastly, my friend wrote on my facebook: Stop asking, "What next?" I think I am going to adhere to her advice. My sister's husband, Matt, is undergoing testing to determine what is going on with his eyes. He has been told anything from an infection to an autoimmune disease to ocular lymphoma. The infection has been almost 100% ruled out, but the other two remain the focus. As Matt said, "I don't know what one I'm hoping for." This situation has been very stressful for my sister and her husband - obviously. Waiting seems forever, but in the medical world, "it" has been moving quickly. Five weeks has seemed like five months. Now they have to wait another two week for all tests to be analyzed and reported. Heather and I stay with them while we are in San Fransisco, and now Matt is also going to UCSF. In fact, his doctor is the office directly below Heather's doctor.
I think that is about "it" for now. As I mentioned, Heather and I head to SF on Tuesday, October 6; her appointments are on October 7; and we return on October 8. I have several new questions to ask as we begin to think about Heather ending her chemo in December. I think it will be bittersweet. Ending the chemo and beginning a normal life again, but also ending the chemo that has kept the tumor from growing - as I said, "bittersweet."
Updated Information:
An experimental drug derived from cottonseed proved effective in hindering the growth of the type of brain cancer that caused Ted Kennedy’s death. The drug completed Phase II clinical trials under the direction of researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
The American Cancer Society estimates that 21,000 Americans are diagnosed each year with brain tumors. Of these about 10,000 are glioblastomas. A glioma is any tumor that forms in the glial brain cells, the most abundant cells in the central nervous system. Glioma is not a specific type of cancer but a category of brain tumor that includes glioblastoma multiforme, astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas.
Heather and Mike have decided to get married. We are thrilled that they will be taking the next step in their relationship. They have certainly shared more intimate challenges than many couples have to face for years and years, so I believe they are a strong couple. Planning a "simple" wedding is starting to be fun and certainly takes our minds off the brain cancer. These two deserve something fun and memorable and positive to plan. Date will either be July 31 or August 7. We are waiting for another couple to decide on their date at the UNO Alumni House. Mike and Heather are 2nd in line for July 31. We should know by Wednesday. Next? Heather has chosen her wedding gown and attendants' dresses - at least her first choice. Flowers: Gerber Daisies. The colors should be so bright and hopeful.
During all this excitement, we have been working on Monster Bash, which is Thursday, October 29 at the downtown Old Chicago Restaurant. Check out the "events" link on our website for more information. Jon has been working hard to obtain Silent Auction items, and he has done well. In addition, we obtained free garage parking for the evening when Monster Bash attendees present a voucher. The band "Chasing Daylight" will be playing; and good food, a special brewed beer, costume contest, and raffle prizes will be available. We are so excited for our 2nd Annual Monster Bash.
On October 4, Bike Masters at 129/Fort will be hosting a bike ride in memory of Seth Embrey, who lost his battle with brain cancer last spring. Interestingly, Seth and Heather went to elementary school together. The bike ride is a 100, 62, or 30 mile ride. Entry is free, but LFAC donations are suggested. LFAC is honored to support another meaningful event for brain cancer awareness. For more information, see the "events" link on our website.
"Wear Gray for a Day" celebrated its second year on Friday, October 18. From Omaha to Atlanta to several other areas in the United States, the event was honored. Many cancer groups and organizations tweeted about this event for weeks prior. I heard from one person today who has asked to be become involved after her friend wore gray on Friday. Another business contacted us about supporting our cause. Time will tell how many people may have been touched, but one person more is a step forward.
Heather has been feeling fairly well. However, her platelets and white cell counts were too low last week for her chemo. So, she was supposed to try again today, but she came down with the flu late Saturday night. She was sick all day Sunday and began running a steady fever early Sunday night. After a phone call to the oncologist, we were off to the ER. SIX HOURS later (4:30 am to be exact) we were home. She received a Nupergen shot, another antibiotic, and Tamiflu - but no pneumonia. They tried to do a flu test on her - tube inserted through the nose to goodness knows where - but Heather did not fare too well. We decided that we did not care what flu she has since all Type As are treated the same. The fever remains, so no work for a few days. She must remain fever free for 48 hours. I did not feel so great when the medical personnel looked at me and said, "You will be getting this." We are all on Tamiflu.
Lastly, my friend wrote on my facebook: Stop asking, "What next?" I think I am going to adhere to her advice. My sister's husband, Matt, is undergoing testing to determine what is going on with his eyes. He has been told anything from an infection to an autoimmune disease to ocular lymphoma. The infection has been almost 100% ruled out, but the other two remain the focus. As Matt said, "I don't know what one I'm hoping for." This situation has been very stressful for my sister and her husband - obviously. Waiting seems forever, but in the medical world, "it" has been moving quickly. Five weeks has seemed like five months. Now they have to wait another two week for all tests to be analyzed and reported. Heather and I stay with them while we are in San Fransisco, and now Matt is also going to UCSF. In fact, his doctor is the office directly below Heather's doctor.
I think that is about "it" for now. As I mentioned, Heather and I head to SF on Tuesday, October 6; her appointments are on October 7; and we return on October 8. I have several new questions to ask as we begin to think about Heather ending her chemo in December. I think it will be bittersweet. Ending the chemo and beginning a normal life again, but also ending the chemo that has kept the tumor from growing - as I said, "bittersweet."
Updated Information:
An experimental drug derived from cottonseed proved effective in hindering the growth of the type of brain cancer that caused Ted Kennedy’s death. The drug completed Phase II clinical trials under the direction of researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
The American Cancer Society estimates that 21,000 Americans are diagnosed each year with brain tumors. Of these about 10,000 are glioblastomas. A glioma is any tumor that forms in the glial brain cells, the most abundant cells in the central nervous system. Glioma is not a specific type of cancer but a category of brain tumor that includes glioblastoma multiforme, astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
RIP
It's been a month since I have added to this blog, and a lot has happened since then. First, Heather is fine. She has the monthly low white cell count followed with her Neupogen shot, or as in some months - shots. She is getting so much better getting those. The last two months she has begun to battle low platlet counts, but she always seems to get those back up. If all goes well, she only has four more months of Temador. However, I have now begun to worry about the "what next?" phase of our life. Heather's next visit with Dr. Chang is October 7, so we will once again be waiting with baited breath for good news.
With Ted Kennedy's passing, a new surge in brain cancer awareness has risen. Our "Wear Gray for a Day" event has taken a life of its own - from Omaha, to St. Louis, to Atlanta, to many other areas, September 18 may see a lot of gray everywhere! Proudly wearing gray and letting people know why is what we need to spread the word that awareness and research is a must for brain cancer. No insurance plan in the world is good enough if a cure is not found.
Instead of ending with brain cancer information, I am going to end with a reflection. This past month has brought our family some sadness. Jon's father passed away on Saturday, August 29 after brief complications from various aging issues. The weeks have been stressful for the family as we tried to provide comfort for the pain and reassurance for the unknown. His father has always been "fiesty," and he lived that until the very end. We will all miss the family patriarch and one of Heather's constant supporters. He loved her - and all his grandchildren - very much. RIP Charles Marvin Roberts!
With Ted Kennedy's passing, a new surge in brain cancer awareness has risen. Our "Wear Gray for a Day" event has taken a life of its own - from Omaha, to St. Louis, to Atlanta, to many other areas, September 18 may see a lot of gray everywhere! Proudly wearing gray and letting people know why is what we need to spread the word that awareness and research is a must for brain cancer. No insurance plan in the world is good enough if a cure is not found.
Instead of ending with brain cancer information, I am going to end with a reflection. This past month has brought our family some sadness. Jon's father passed away on Saturday, August 29 after brief complications from various aging issues. The weeks have been stressful for the family as we tried to provide comfort for the pain and reassurance for the unknown. His father has always been "fiesty," and he lived that until the very end. We will all miss the family patriarch and one of Heather's constant supporters. He loved her - and all his grandchildren - very much. RIP Charles Marvin Roberts!
Friday, August 7, 2009
Cure Cancer!
Once again we are blessed with good news. Heather's tumor has not grown and the scar tissue is not as enhanced as before. Dr. Chang said, "This scan is the best I could hope for." We will take it!
For the first time I did not go to San Fransisco with Heather; Jon went instead. School has resumed and I had some meetings I should not miss - new technology that is generations ahead of me! Anyway, even though I knew she was safe with Jon and my sister, I wanted to be there. Once I was on speaker phone and heard Dr. Chang's message, all was good. Then I wanted to be there to help celebrate. Oh well. . .
The plan remains as last time: Temador through December. I am very nervous for her to go off Temador because things are going so well on it. In fact, she handled her tiredness better this time I think. She will see Dr. Chang in October, December, February, and then every three months instead of two if all goes well. That will be another adjustment for us.
In the meantime, we continue to pray for new advancements in treating this aggressive form of brain cancer. I know there are studies and trials all the time, but we need one that WORKS! So I'm thinking, a cure for ALL cancers would be awesome! Never settle, so let's go for the best.
Heather likes her new job and the people with whom she works. She is so lucky to have a job and to work with such a great group of doctors, nurses, and medical support staff. She feels at home.
Some other exciting news: Old Chicago (downtown) is sponsoring Monster Bash Thursday, October 29. Doors open at 6:30, $20 per person, appetizers, live band, costume contest, raffles, and silent auction - it should be tons of fun! In addition, instead of drink tickets this year, we are offering a special brew (made just for Monster Bash) and it will be free! Can't beat that offer. More information will be posted on the "events" link on the website soon. Old Chicago is preparing posters and t-shirts.
Other good news: "Wear Gray for a Day" on Friday, September 18. If your business would like to participate, let me know. LFAC will provide stickers to wear and raffle prizes for the office. Someone in Atlanta is promoting this same event, so it's our first step for a national effort. WEAR GRAY on September 18 and show your support for brain cancer awareness!
Again, we are so excited about Heather's report. She is fighting to win this war, and I think she will succeed. Have you tried to cross her before? I don't think even brain cancer wants to do that! Thank you for all your prayers; please keep them coming. I believe in the power of prayer, and I believe it is working for Heather. And as you are praying for her, please add Bob Sitzman to your list. He is currently fighting his battle with recurring lymphoma, and he needs the power of pray to work for him too. Pray for a cure for cancer.
In closing, I find a spark of hope in the following:
The different ways that patients respond to drugs make brain cancer hard to treat, but a new way to analyze brain tumors could help pinpoint which patients will benefit from a newly-approved drug.Bronnie McNabb underwent surgery, radiation and chemotherapy to fight brain tumors, but he always developed new ones. Since taking the new drug Avastin, however, his tumors are gone. "This is probably the best I have felt since this (cancer) first came on," McNabb said.
Although Avastin worked for McNabb, about half of patients with recurring cancer don't respond to it. A new way to analyze brain scans, developed by researchers at the University of California-Los Angeles, could help determine which tumors might respond to Avastin. Some glioblastoma tumors – the deadliest form of brain cancer – are more solid, while others contain more moving water, according to researchers' findings published in the July issue of Radiology.
"What we're looking at is the movement of water molecules within the tumor," explained Dr. Whitney Pope, director of radiology resident research at UCLA. "And what we've found is that tumors that have a lot of water molecules due to the death of cells within the tumor, those are tumors that respond well to Avastin."
Glioblastoma strikes about 12,000 Americans a year. When every day counts, knowing if tumors will respond to certain drugs is critical. "I've gone several months beyond what they told me would be my outside length of time to survive," McNabb said.
Researchers hope that one day they'll be able to tell exactly which tumors will respond to Avastin and other cancer-fighting drugs.
For the first time I did not go to San Fransisco with Heather; Jon went instead. School has resumed and I had some meetings I should not miss - new technology that is generations ahead of me! Anyway, even though I knew she was safe with Jon and my sister, I wanted to be there. Once I was on speaker phone and heard Dr. Chang's message, all was good. Then I wanted to be there to help celebrate. Oh well. . .
The plan remains as last time: Temador through December. I am very nervous for her to go off Temador because things are going so well on it. In fact, she handled her tiredness better this time I think. She will see Dr. Chang in October, December, February, and then every three months instead of two if all goes well. That will be another adjustment for us.
In the meantime, we continue to pray for new advancements in treating this aggressive form of brain cancer. I know there are studies and trials all the time, but we need one that WORKS! So I'm thinking, a cure for ALL cancers would be awesome! Never settle, so let's go for the best.
Heather likes her new job and the people with whom she works. She is so lucky to have a job and to work with such a great group of doctors, nurses, and medical support staff. She feels at home.
Some other exciting news: Old Chicago (downtown) is sponsoring Monster Bash Thursday, October 29. Doors open at 6:30, $20 per person, appetizers, live band, costume contest, raffles, and silent auction - it should be tons of fun! In addition, instead of drink tickets this year, we are offering a special brew (made just for Monster Bash) and it will be free! Can't beat that offer. More information will be posted on the "events" link on the website soon. Old Chicago is preparing posters and t-shirts.
Other good news: "Wear Gray for a Day" on Friday, September 18. If your business would like to participate, let me know. LFAC will provide stickers to wear and raffle prizes for the office. Someone in Atlanta is promoting this same event, so it's our first step for a national effort. WEAR GRAY on September 18 and show your support for brain cancer awareness!
Again, we are so excited about Heather's report. She is fighting to win this war, and I think she will succeed. Have you tried to cross her before? I don't think even brain cancer wants to do that! Thank you for all your prayers; please keep them coming. I believe in the power of prayer, and I believe it is working for Heather. And as you are praying for her, please add Bob Sitzman to your list. He is currently fighting his battle with recurring lymphoma, and he needs the power of pray to work for him too. Pray for a cure for cancer.
In closing, I find a spark of hope in the following:
The different ways that patients respond to drugs make brain cancer hard to treat, but a new way to analyze brain tumors could help pinpoint which patients will benefit from a newly-approved drug.Bronnie McNabb underwent surgery, radiation and chemotherapy to fight brain tumors, but he always developed new ones. Since taking the new drug Avastin, however, his tumors are gone. "This is probably the best I have felt since this (cancer) first came on," McNabb said.
Although Avastin worked for McNabb, about half of patients with recurring cancer don't respond to it. A new way to analyze brain scans, developed by researchers at the University of California-Los Angeles, could help determine which tumors might respond to Avastin. Some glioblastoma tumors – the deadliest form of brain cancer – are more solid, while others contain more moving water, according to researchers' findings published in the July issue of Radiology.
"What we're looking at is the movement of water molecules within the tumor," explained Dr. Whitney Pope, director of radiology resident research at UCLA. "And what we've found is that tumors that have a lot of water molecules due to the death of cells within the tumor, those are tumors that respond well to Avastin."
Glioblastoma strikes about 12,000 Americans a year. When every day counts, knowing if tumors will respond to certain drugs is critical. "I've gone several months beyond what they told me would be my outside length of time to survive," McNabb said.
Researchers hope that one day they'll be able to tell exactly which tumors will respond to Avastin and other cancer-fighting drugs.
Friday, July 24, 2009
On August 5, Heather heads to San Francisco again for another appointment with Dr. Chang. As always, now is the time that I start to think too much about it - this time even more. For the first time, I won't be going with Heather. And, it is already driving me crazy. However, Jon will be with her the entire time, so she will be in good hands, but I want to be there too. I don't feel I can miss the first two days of school without getting far behind before we even start, so I opted out this trip.
Heather's white cell count was low again; in fact, the lowest for her yet. But the nupergen shots seem to work so far, so the chemo can continue. Her red count is also down, but that just means she will sleep more. Today she had a problem with her infusion - arm swelling from vein popping - so she was a sad sack for a while. But, the trooper that she is - off to work after a quick recuperation at the oncology infusion site.
Speaking of off to work, she has been in training for about two weeks now. I think she will be "cut loose" soon to tackle it on her own. The best part of this job? She works with the two doctors who I continue to praise for saving her life: Dr. Denman and Dr. Daryani.
While it is sometimes easy to slip into a routine, we are always reminded of the fight so many people are battling every day. Heather is one of millions who have a life-threatening disease, and one of thousands who is battling brain cancer. From young to old, cancer of all types attacks its victims. Brain cancer has had few new treatment developments in over a decade, so it is "our" turn to see some new advancements in diagnosis and treatment.
As for LFAC, we are in the beginning stages of our 2009 - 2010 fundraising efforts. WEAR GRAY FOR A DAY is September 18. Anyone wanting a sticker to wear for the day, please contact me (sue.leapforacure@gmail.com or jonroberts402@msn.com). We will send the sticker and information to anyone who is interested in participating. Monster Bash is being planned as well. Soon, more information will be posted on the events link. Another UNO Hockey event is in the works - who can we get to shave his / her head????? The car show crashed this year, but I think we can get one going for June 2010. And, a bike ride is being planned for fall 2010! We won't stop until a cure is found.
Instead of posting brain cancer information this time, I am going to close with a link that has a ton of information / stories about brain cancer: http://www.greyribboncrusade.org/ LFAC is a proud member.
Heather's white cell count was low again; in fact, the lowest for her yet. But the nupergen shots seem to work so far, so the chemo can continue. Her red count is also down, but that just means she will sleep more. Today she had a problem with her infusion - arm swelling from vein popping - so she was a sad sack for a while. But, the trooper that she is - off to work after a quick recuperation at the oncology infusion site.
Speaking of off to work, she has been in training for about two weeks now. I think she will be "cut loose" soon to tackle it on her own. The best part of this job? She works with the two doctors who I continue to praise for saving her life: Dr. Denman and Dr. Daryani.
While it is sometimes easy to slip into a routine, we are always reminded of the fight so many people are battling every day. Heather is one of millions who have a life-threatening disease, and one of thousands who is battling brain cancer. From young to old, cancer of all types attacks its victims. Brain cancer has had few new treatment developments in over a decade, so it is "our" turn to see some new advancements in diagnosis and treatment.
As for LFAC, we are in the beginning stages of our 2009 - 2010 fundraising efforts. WEAR GRAY FOR A DAY is September 18. Anyone wanting a sticker to wear for the day, please contact me (sue.leapforacure@gmail.com or jonroberts402@msn.com). We will send the sticker and information to anyone who is interested in participating. Monster Bash is being planned as well. Soon, more information will be posted on the events link. Another UNO Hockey event is in the works - who can we get to shave his / her head????? The car show crashed this year, but I think we can get one going for June 2010. And, a bike ride is being planned for fall 2010! We won't stop until a cure is found.
Instead of posting brain cancer information this time, I am going to close with a link that has a ton of information / stories about brain cancer: http://www.greyribboncrusade.org/ LFAC is a proud member.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Good News is Sometimes "Relative"
Heather finished her June chemo, and she actually handled it quite well. Her white blood cell count was a bit low again, so another shot. The shots make her bones ache, so her back suffered a bit. However, it is now Friday - 5 days from last chemo pill and 4 days from last shot. She seems to have managed both, but she is tired (slept until 11:00 this morning!).
Her left side continues to be a bit weaker - a bit less coordinated? - than her right side. As she and I were walking the other night, her dog Sky started running from firework noises. Heather tried to run - OK, it was funny in a sick way - but she looked something like the Hunchback of Norte Dame. Thank goodness she kept it all under control!
Her good news is that she got a job! She begins the paperwork on Monday, July 6 with training to follow. I know she is excited about where she will be working, but the pay is low. So, she has started free-lancing and seems to enjoy it so far. We will see.
Our dear friend Bob, whose situation was noted in my last entry, finally received his updated cancer information. Again, good news is relative. His lymphoma is in his stomach and right kidney. Yes, it could be worse; for that we are all grateful. However, it could be better; for that we are sad. Our entire "clan" will be there supporting Bob and Robyn.
As July 4 approaches tomorrow, we celebrate our independence and once again thank all past, present, and future military personnel who protect it.
Brain Cancer Information: Brain tumors are unique because they occur in the skull -- a confined space with rigid walls. A brain tumor takes up space normally allocated to the brain. As the tumor continues to grow, it pushes aside or compresses the brain. This can cause a build up of pressure in the skull that leads to symptoms such as headaches, seizures and strokes. Brain tumor treatment is designed to eliminate the tumor or reduce tumor size, thus allowing the surrounding brain to resume its normal functions.
Her left side continues to be a bit weaker - a bit less coordinated? - than her right side. As she and I were walking the other night, her dog Sky started running from firework noises. Heather tried to run - OK, it was funny in a sick way - but she looked something like the Hunchback of Norte Dame. Thank goodness she kept it all under control!
Her good news is that she got a job! She begins the paperwork on Monday, July 6 with training to follow. I know she is excited about where she will be working, but the pay is low. So, she has started free-lancing and seems to enjoy it so far. We will see.
Our dear friend Bob, whose situation was noted in my last entry, finally received his updated cancer information. Again, good news is relative. His lymphoma is in his stomach and right kidney. Yes, it could be worse; for that we are all grateful. However, it could be better; for that we are sad. Our entire "clan" will be there supporting Bob and Robyn.
As July 4 approaches tomorrow, we celebrate our independence and once again thank all past, present, and future military personnel who protect it.
Brain Cancer Information: Brain tumors are unique because they occur in the skull -- a confined space with rigid walls. A brain tumor takes up space normally allocated to the brain. As the tumor continues to grow, it pushes aside or compresses the brain. This can cause a build up of pressure in the skull that leads to symptoms such as headaches, seizures and strokes. Brain tumor treatment is designed to eliminate the tumor or reduce tumor size, thus allowing the surrounding brain to resume its normal functions.
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