The latest ramblings...

About six and a half months ago, we were facing another major decision about whether to try a new treatment, having determined that the chemo I had taken was apparently not effective. There was a brand new experimental drug called LDE225 that was in Phase I clinical trial, with only a handful of patients who had taken it. Some of you may be interested to learn that this drug is supposed to interrupt the "hedgehog pathway" (a critical signaling pathway that plays a role in the development of some cancers) in an attempt to stop cancer from growing. I know... you thought "hedgehog" was either a furry, little critter or the product of a video game creator's imagination. Me, too! As I have researched this drug, I find that there are several types of microscopic hedgehog molecules in the human body, including Sonic Hedgehog, Desert Hedgehog, and Indian Hedgehog. For those of you unfamiliar with video games, "Sonic the Hedgehog" is perhaps one of the most famous and popular games of all time. What's the significance? Nothing! I just thought it was quite interesting and humorous. Anyway, I digress...

Getting back to the intended topic of this post...today marks six months that I have been on this drug, LDE225. Another day to celebrate! (cf. my previous post.) In spite of a few aggravating side effects, Dr. Mita does believe that it is helping, at least some. Most of the tumors do not seem to be growing at this point. Hopefully the others will follow suit as I continue to use it. We do know that ALL healing, whether using modern medicine or not, is the result of the hand of God. We continue to rest in Him and trust Him with our lives. We are blessed and thankful to enjoy each new day of life.

We did make another trip to San Antonio. I had a DEXA scan (bone scan) yesterday morning to see if there is any evidence of damage to the spine, hips, or forearms that might be attributed to the drug. We probably will not hear anything about this scan unless a problem is detected. The day was quite drawn out, as, for some reason, everything took much longer than usual. We didn't get back home until 8:30 last night. Helen had to slow way down for the last 30 miles of the drive because the highway had become largely iced over. We were very glad to make it home safely.

We are continually thankful for your love and support!

Kenny and Helen