22-27 Jun -- Busy Week

Monday 27 June -- Back to M. D. Anderson, Houston

Robert and I met with an assistant professsor of neuro-oncology at M. D. Anderson Monday morning for a second opinion. She reviewed my medical data and treatment plan and concurred with the decisions made so far.

She was impressed with Dr. Fox’s March surgery but, like many others here, she was taken aback at the results shown in the June MRI. Like everyone else, she is not sure, but believes that recurrence of cancer is the most likely explanation. We will meet with her again two days after the 15 July MRI and five days before the proposed surgery date. All future treatment hinges upon the July MRI.

The neuro-oncologist believes that I might be a candidate for one of MDA’s experimental drug programs. We will see about that in July.

Sunday, 28 June -- Warren and Deborah Visit

My son, Warren, came in from California Thursday night and stayed through Sunday. My daughter, Deborah, and granddaughter, Annabel, were also with us as were grandsons Keith and Brennan. It is always a joy to be with family.

Thursday 25 June – Treatment Developments

My medical team had a peer review meeting this week. It was decided to “pencil in” surgery for me on Thursday, 23 July, again by Dr. Fox at St David’s Hospital on 32d Street. The surgery will be done only if the MRI on 15 July shows continuing rapid growth.

Monday 22 June -- Beginning of 2nd Phase Chemo

June 22 was the beginning of the second phase of chemotherapy. It was the same drug, Temodar, as I took during the first phase, but at twice the dosage as before, when I also had radiation therapy. (Radiation can only be used once every two years.) I was able to tolerate the first phase well, but this double dose made me feel pretty awful. I will have a 21 day rest period before the next round of Temodar. I will need it. We don’t know whether we’ll continue Temodar.

Thanks for all the cards and calls. I wish I had the energy to thank everyone personally.

Love you all,

Michele