MD Anderson Reports and Plan --- 07-25-2010

After the delay from her hospitalization last week, Robin finally saw her oncologist at M.D.Anderson Cancer Center for a follow-up after the tests. The tests still showed no sign of cancer in the lungs, which was very encouraging, especially after three months without Chemo. On the negative side, the tests also showed lots of cancer in the bones. Although the MDA reports did not compare to the previous scans, it sounded like there has been considerable growth. In fact, the most distressing report said that Robin's left femur (a.k.a., "thigh bone") is in very bad shape from cancer growth. Previous scans did not report anything in the femur, but now there is a sizable "hole" and it is considered a fracture risk because of the damage.

The doctor discussed the treatment plans that Robin might take. He said that she needed radiation for the femur as soon as possible. This, combined with continuing the Zometa, which is used to prevent skeletal fractures in patients with cancer, should reduce the fracture risk. The radiation treatments should last for five days, but it will take a few days to get things set up. (Robin just told me that MDA called and told her she would meet her radiation oncologist on Monday, 7/26, and have the set-up simulation on Tuesday). After the radiation treatments are complete, and after Robin completes her IV antibiotics, she should be able to enter a treatment study. The doctor mentioned a study that adds Avandia to a standard chemo treatment, Exemestane (I believe is the name). You might have heard or read about Avandia in the news recently. The FDA was considering a ban on Avandia because it has been tied to heart attacks and strokes. However they decided the benefit outweighed the risks for some patients, so it was not banned. Anyway, this combination has been effective in cases like Robin's, and they are now trying to figure out what the right dose should be. The treatment is relatively free of side effects, too. What more could you ask? Robin was pretty excited about the prospects of starting Chemo again, especially one with minimal side effects. (It just doesn't seem right for a person to be excited about Chemo!!!)

Robin is still feeling good, mostly due to no chemo. Her femur is growing more painful. The cat seems to like perching on her leg, and Robin has gotten to the point where she cannot stand that anymore, so she wants to get the radiation started ASAP. She is still getting the IV antibiotic, and will be for about nine more days. Hopefully, the radiation and the antibiotics will finish together, so she can move directly into the chemo as soon as possible.

Thanks to everyone who continues to keep Robin in their thoughts and prayers. We are so blessed to have your support. We can never fully express our appreciation. We especially appreciate those who help Robin stay in touch with the outside world, and let her know in a tangible way that she is loved. Thank you.

Please continue to keep Robin in your prayers. On a side note, Robin's father (Hal) seems to be doing much better. Apparently, a large part of his problem was a benign tumor in his intestines. They were able to remove it through the colon, which was a less invasive procedure than we expected. I imagine full recovery will take some time, though. Please remember him in your prayers, too.

We continue to pray for all of you each day, and we thank God for the gift you have been to us.

Once again, thank you,

                  --- Larry, Robin, & John