4/29/10 - Update

In sum, Mom very happy with decision to consider Duke's clinical trial program. Given the level of uncertainty we regularly face as we navigate this process, this is of course all we can hope for.

She will start the treatment on Tuesday May 4th.

When all is said and done, we will have a lot of people to thank for their help along the way. For helping guide us through this particular step, the medical staff at Northwestern, who were willing to speak candidly with us and vouch for the quality of the Duke program, deserve special recognition.

4/27/10 - Day at Duke for Clinical Trial Evaluation

Long day for mom but a good one. She has been offered, and has accepted, the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial. Her treatment will be a combination of Avastin (bevacizumab), Camptosar (CPT11), and carboplatin. She will be treated every two weeks by her current doctor in Charlotte, who apparently interfaces regularly with the folks at Duke.

Most importantly, she feels very comfortable with the competence of the people and the direction of her treatment as outlined by the Duke staff. Tomorrow, another meeting at Duke to discuss the quality of life issues that will accompany the clinical trial program, and then presumably back home to Charlotte.

Best to all, Ted

4/26/10 - Trip to Miami

By accounts from Dad, Mom and Dad had a wonderful trip to Miami to celebrate a sibling's wedding. . . shared invaluable time with all her brothers and sisters . . . thanks (and congratulations) to the newlyweds for allowing mom such an opportunity.

4/23/10 - Update

Learned last week that her tumor is growing after having been surgically "debulked" for the second time in mid February. Moving off current chemo regimen (Temodar) and on to either Avastin/Camptosar or a clinical trial.

Having a tough time using her left arm - unsure as to whether this is due to tumor activity, but certainly not an unreasonable assumption.

Appointment at Duke on Tuesday to be evaluated for possible clinical trials. If she is not accepted, or chooses not to participate, begins Avastin/Camptosar treatment on Thursday.