Seth's Info

Well I was excited at the thought of posting some good news here today, but things are only “so-so”. The latest C/T scans showed that the primary tumor was about the same size (about 9cm) and that a new 2cm tumor had grown nearby. We discussed options with Dr von Mehren and we decided to switch protocols. The AIM protocol uses adriamycin and ifosfamide. I am currently on adriamycin with the current protocol, so this is essentially adding in the ifosfamide and taking away the ET-743. I have to admit I am very disappointed that the experimental drug wasn’t that effective, but that is the nature of treating this disease. The fact that the primary tumor has not grown is a positive thing. The downside is that this protocol is administered over 4 days and requires an inpatient stay every 3 weeks. I’ll be admitted into Fox Chase tomorrow and probably stay through Saturday. This protocol has similar side effects, but also can affect the bladder which requires more constant attention.

The past several weeks have been very hard for us, and it looks like we still have a long road ahead of us. We have been on the receiving end of some unexpected and generous support from friends and family lately, and Jenny and I are so appreciative. It helps us out in a very practical way, but more importantly reminds us that we have so many people who care about us.

If you didn’t see it, Italy won the World Cup on Sunday in a penalty shootout. I was a little disheartened to see Zidane (from France) get sent off for a vicious head butt late in the game (see this link for the video). Now I need to find another distraction!

Jenny will be heading back to State College on Wednesday, but I probably won’t return till this weekend. I’ll let you know how this week’s treatment goes then.

Take care and stay in touch,
Seth