Radiation Again --- 08-01-2010

As things go in the world of fighting cancer (and probably anything else that requires consultation with experts), the radiation treatments are more complicated than we first thought. We met Robin's radiation oncologist on Monday, 7/26 and her assessment of Robin's scans indicated the need for more radiation than we first thought was required. Besides the expected radiation of the tumor in her left femur, her oncologist said that the cancer was starting in Robin's right femur, as well. Furthermore, she said that the bones in the pelvic area were heavily involved, and they needed radiation to slow (or stop) the progression of the disease before the damage became too severe. So, instead of one week of radiation in one area, she will get two weeks in several areas, with many more possible complications. The potential side effects from the pelvic radiation treatments are greater, as you might expect, since the colon and bladder will receive collateral damage. But there will be effort to minimize the damage, so our hope is that, after these treatments, Robin won't any worse off.

The procedure started the next day (Tuesday). The first step in radiation is "the simulation." This process allows the alignment of the radiation equipment so that the treatment areas get radiation and other areas get minimal impact. It involves small tattoos that are used as targets for the laser pointers and markings to show where the tattoos are. There are also markings for the molds that they use to block radiation from other body parts. Robin looks a little bit like she has graffiti written on her. During the simulation, they take X-Rays to makes sure the radiation will get where it is supposed to go. The simulation usually takes much longer than the actual treatment.

Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, Robin received her first three radiation treatments. Everything has gone well. Originally, they were all scheduled for late afternoon, so Robin's attendant, Connie, would not be able to take Robin. However, after Wednesday, they have been able to reschedule to earlier hours. So far, there have been no side effects from the treatments. On Monday, in addition to the radiation treatment, Robin meets with both her medical and her radiation oncologists. I assume we will have a little more information after these appointments. After the radiation treatments are complete (7 more), and after Robin completes her IV antibiotics (3 more), she should be able to enter the treatment study (Avandia with Exemestane).

Please continue to keep Robin in your prayers.

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