Like most of the country, we endured the Summer of 2011. Tulsa set all kinds of records, most notably the most days of 100+ degree days in a summer. It was pretty much miserable, but this too has passed. Bobby didn't complain much about the heat, he was thrilled to be side effect free for the past 3 months. While it wasn't debilitating by any means, the chronic fatigue and nagging mouth sores, on top of the bizarre rash episode were starting to take its toll back in June when we started this medicine break.
We went to our appointment with Dr Keller last Thursday with quite a bit of apprehension. What had the cancer done after being left untreated for 3 months? Did we make a mistake taking such a long break? Wouldn't it be wonderful if it had miraculously disappeared? Bobby certainly felt well enough to entertain that possibility. He rode his bike a lot over the summer, even had his longest ride ever - 60 miles on his 59th birthday in August.
However, the CT showed continued progression in the size of the tumors, one in the adrenal gland, three in the lungs. The progression is very slow though, which led to a discussion about the tradeoffs between the benefits and side effects of treatment. We are taking a little time weighing the options, which also include an interesting Phase I clinical trial involving a treatment that seeks to boost the immune system, similar to the IL-2 we did in Nashville, yet not as toxic.
Promise to post updates when we know the next step. In the meantime, thanks again for thinking of us, and praying. You are a blessing.
Juli
p.s. Please add my sister Lynne to your prayers. She's trying to settle on the best new treatment option as well, and is starting to experience some significant physical pain. She's amazingly strong, though, and determined not to let this get her down. I'm flying out next week to spend some time with her in Tucson.
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