From San Francisco to Hawaii

We just returned from San Francisco, and we feel the news is good - if "status quo" is good. Heather's tumor has not grown, so that is good. From what we were told, the tumor never "shrinks"; the cells just die. When the cells begin to grow again, the Temador attacks / kills them. The trick seems to be to make certain the Temador is taken when the cells are starting to grow. I think it is time for more research. We always learn so much with each visit! We will return to San Francisco the end of January - and I am certain we will return with more answers, but with more questions as well.

Heather seems to be doing well. She is happy with "status quo" - as we all are. For some reason this trip was really bothering her. She had a few bad days thinking about the trip; I think because she heard bad news the last time we were there maybe she was fearful she would hear bad news again. But, with a sigh of relief, we went to lunch to celebrate with my sister Jill and my best friend from high school, Tricia.

Saturday (11/15) the Omaha Lancer Hockey Organization held a fundraiser for brain cancer. The players wore special "brain cancer" jerseys designed by Bill Nervig (Lancer's trainer). Each jersey was auctioned off during the game. These jerseys were really "sweet." Obviously, I have never seen a jersey designed for brain cancer! I wonder if these are the first ones made for it? Unfortunately, the team lost in a shoot-out, so that was the only downside to the benefit. Once again, we have been amazed at the support the community has given to our cause.

Heather's cousin Aaron is doing great work in Lincoln promoting Leap-for-a-Cure. I hope to have more news on his efforts soon.

I don't think there will be much to write about until after our Hawaii trip. Heather is so excited about the trip, which we think is going to be special before she starts her chemotherapy. We learned that she could be on Temador for 2 - 3 years if she tolerates it. Wow, that is a long time! Of course, we think she will handle it well as she handled radiation and low-dose chemo very well. Our fingers are once again crossed for her health, happiness, and safety.