Latest news from Doug
Dear Friends,
Tuesday’s appointment did not go the way we had hoped, however on the other hand we got valuable information that helped us make a decision on what direction we should take. The Interleukin 2 at high levels would only be about 1% to 2% effective on the cancer that I have. We will be trying a combination of five different drugs, two man-made proteins to boost my immune system and three chemotherapy drugs that will fight the cancer. Interferon Alfa and Aldesleukin, both made-made proteins. Cisplatin, Vinblastine and Dacarbazine all a form of chemotherapy.
Right now it looks like I will be starting the regiment this Friday the 5th. I will be in the hospital for six days, then two weeks off to recover and stay free from germs, etc. Then I will get to do it again and then take a few days to recover then we can drive home. During this time we have to stay away from children and anyone that may be sick. We wanted to do all of this at home but MD Anderson does this all the time and they are real good at dealing with the side effects. We do not like being away from home but it may be safer in a way because visitors can be a hazard when my immune system is low. If Christine gets sick, she will have to stay away, probably in the hotel. We are looking forward to getting this part over and praying for a miracle.
Without a miracle, it seems like my time will be getting more valuable. When we get home, there are many things that we want to do. We will be splitting our time between family, ORC and the community. Please continue to pray for Christine and me and also keep our immediate family in your prayers.
