No news is good news...
The latest MRI shows no new tumor growth! This means the current trial and treatment seem to be keeping the tumors at bay. Kurt is continuing with the Optune device and chemotherapy every 28 days. Kurt experiences occasional nausea and fatigue, but is handling everything pretty darn well. We have joined the CLIMB (Children's Lives Include Moments of Bravery) children of parents and grandparents with cancer support group at Jefferson Hospital. Georgia and Spencer have really responded to meeting peers that are going through similar situations. Kurt and I are humbled to meet such open and caring individuals, all of whom, are battling rare cancers.
The latest MRI shows no new tumor growth! This means the current trial and treatment seem to be keeping the tumors at bay. Kurt is continuing with the Optune device and chemotherapy every 28 days. Kurt experiences occasional nausea and fatigue, but is handling everything pretty darn well. We have joined the CLIMB (Children's Lives Include Moments of Bravery) children of parents and grandparents with cancer support group at Jefferson Hospital. Georgia and Spencer have really responded to meeting peers that are going through similar situations. Kurt and I are humbled to meet such open and caring individuals, all of whom, are battling rare cancers.
Now We Wait...
The first round is over. Kurt made it through six weeks of radiation, chemotherapy and the Optune like a champ. The last couple of weeks have been tough as the radiation effects were cumulative, leaving Kurt feeling lots of pressure in his head and quite a bit of fatigue. The good news is that this is the last of radiation. Next steps are as follows:
- Kurt is scheduled for an MRI, which should give us an idea of how the tumors reacted to the treatment.
- He will follow up with his oncologist at Jefferson.
- He will meet with his doctor at Penn who will also read the MRI and offer a second opinion.
- In February, Kurt will begin chemotherapy maintenance, which will be a five day intensive chemotherapy treatment each month and this will continue for quite some time.
- The Optune therapy is ongoing. Kurt wears the arrays for a minimum of 18 hours a day every day.
11/15 Shock and Awe
Everything started this week. Kurt began chemotherapy, radiation and Optune.
Radiation Mask
Here, Kurt is fitted for his radiation mask. The technicians were a blast and helped to make this somber 'ceremony' somehow fun.
That day, we committed to the study, so get ready for some excellent headwear! To see more about Optune, click on the link below.
https://www.optune.com/hcp
That day, we committed to the study, so get ready for some excellent headwear! To see more about Optune, click on the link below.
https://www.optune.com/hcp
How can I help?
- Yes, we have gotten a second opinion, and have determined that this is the best course of action.
- We are so fortunate to have such a caring community of friends and family. Please touch base before visiting and please keep visits brief.
- Things we need the most help with right now are:
Sorting through belongings and making clothing and appliance donations
Fixing our 160 year-old house
- which requires a new roof first and foremost
- also drywall, plaster work, ceiling repair and window replacement and repair
- remodel and repair our first floor bathroom to prepare for hospice care
Most importantly, we are trying to stay normal and appreciate the time we have together, all of which is a gift.