Encouraging News.

Last Thursday, we flew from Bend to Los Angeles, hopped in a taxi and met with the Neuro Oncologist at Cedars Sinai Hospital late in the afternoon.  After an hour of discussing Gary's MRI's (Nov '0, April '08, and July '08), he called the Neuro Surgeon who did Gary's December biopsy to review these same MRI's and to meet with us. They both agree that it might be slight tumor progression, but also thought it was two small hemorrhages caused by taking Coumadin blood thinner.  They suggest treating these nodules with a very powerful radiation technique, called "gamma knife" to basically "zap" these two small nodules.  Looks like we'll fly down again during the first week of August to do this procedure. It is non invasive and be done as an outpatient.  

The Neuro Oncologist wants to continue with the chemo he was on (Temodar) to give it a proper chance.  Gary starts long term, low dosage chemo tonight.  

Our goal is to keep Gary healthy, enjoy every day, and pray for a cure.

Again, thanks for caring.  We can't tell you what it means to have your support.

Going to LA

Gary's MRI was reviewed by several radiologist who believe that the tumor is growing "slightly". So after much deliberation, we have decided to go to Los Angeles to Cedars Sinai this week to seek the advise of a Neuro Oncologist so he can advise us on the latest Clinical Trials that would be recommended for Gary.  

We don't know what we're in for, but pray that they have something that will work on killing the tumor.   We're glad that we found out in time to do something about it, but saddened that the disease might be progressing.

Gary's spirits are "mostly good" and he feels "mostly good".  I get down from time to time, but remain his advocate and best friend.  

GIGGLE TIME WITH GRANDFATHER

Hold On, the roller coaster continues........

Last night I emailed Gary's Neuro Oncologist at Cedars Sinai.  This morning he replied and told us he disagrees with the "Impression" that Gary's tumor has progressed.  He suggests that we fly down to see him next week.  I've asked then to speak to one another and hopefully, they can come to some mutual conclusions.

I know that worrying doesn't help anything and God can do all this for us, so we need to put this in His hands.

We know that everyone has problems of their own and we don't want you to worry about us.   Thanks for caring.

GLACIERS GALORE

Best Friends!

What can we say?

Our Alaskan Cruise with our family was wonderful and we all had a great trip full of terrific memories.   Gary enjoyed every minute, as did the grandkids and daughters/our perfect son in law.  We shared many beautiful landscapes and unimaginable glaciers and wildlife and visions that we hope that will stay with the younger ones for a lifetime.  Unfortunately, no moose and no bears and only a few whale tales. My 60th was a true celebration and we laughed quite a lot.

We found out today that Gary's tumor has grown since his last MRI done 3 months ago.  Needless to say, we are still reeling, but thought this was an easier way to tell you than through phone calls and emails.   He looks and feels great, other than fatigue.  

Our Bend Oncologist stopped his chemo that was scheduled for tonight and is contacting our other institutions (City of Hope in LA, Cedars Sinai in LA, University of California in San Francisco, and Cancer Center of America in Seattle) to determine the best treatment "protocol" for his tumor.  (Boy, do we dislike that word "protocol".  It's so very "politically correct" for chemical destruction of cancers.)   He tells us he'll have an answer for a new treatment plan this coming Monday.    This is an "E ride".   Gary and I remain hopeful and happy that we have had 30+ years together and a wonderful life.  We've travelled, played, laughed with friends, and enjoyed life to the fullest.  

Wish we had better news for you all, but we do ask for your continue confidence and prayers. We're not giving up and are going to remain hopeful.

V & G