A New Treatment Plan

Mom’s appointment with her doctor on Thursday was more hopeful than expected.  Her best chance of a cure remains to get into remission and then to proceed with a stem cell transplant as soon as possible. 

Mom has the following treatment options available:

1.  Begin trials (not ideal, lots of paperwork, not proven effective yet);

2.  Begin full strength chemotherapy next week (this is the last time that Mom would be able to receive high dose chemotherapy and it carries significant risks);  or

3.  To start taking a drug used for MyloDysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a pre-leukemia condition.  Sometimes this drug will reduce the blast cells down to 5-6%, or even 0%.  Mom will be closely monitored while on this drug, so that if it is not effective, she can start the full strength chemotherapy instead.  Mom will be able to start this drug on Monday, August 24, 2015.

We are thankful to God that He has upheld Mom and Dad, especially during the past few difficult weeks, and that they could continue to testify of their hope in Him.  Considering all of the chemotherapy that Mom has endured so far, we stand amazed that tests have shown that her organs are very healthy.  In this regard, the doctors continue to say that Mom is different from their typical cancer patients, so they are hopeful that this new drug could be effective.

Please pray for continued peace and strength for Mom and Dad and for blessing on the treatment.

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”

Ephesians 6:10