Friday, February 7, 2014

Racing Against Time

 
 
Time.  It is something we all take for granted. Time, we have found, is very precious.  Each day needs to be savored and enjoyed.  For us, every day is like Christmas Day; with joy and excitement for the gift of it.

Denny is now racing against time.  Dr. Murphy, as I mentioned in the last post, put him back on the chemo she initially had success with.  She told us, "The cancer will eventually become resistant and this chemo will no longer be effective."  The clinical trial she was trying to get him into would not accept him.  He did not meet their criteria or their open window so, therefore, that drug is not available to him.  Dr. Murphy said she will continue to search for a trial that addresses the Pik3 gene discovered in the tumor through the genetic mapping done in Boston.

As of today, Denny does not look sick.  That is what is so difficult to comprehend.  He doesn't look or act like someone in this situation.  He bought a 1991 jeep as a project to work on so he can stay busy. 

On Monday, Feb.3rd, he started the 2nd round of treatment of chemo.  As of today, he still feels like it is working.  The symptoms of the cancer have receded.  He isn't taking any pain medication but feels tired from the chemo. The plan, at this point, is to have another MRI on Feb. 25th.  There is no known treatment plan after that.  The MRI will determine if the chemo continues or if the cancer has become resistant.

We are trying not to look too far ahead as it is like staring into an abyss.  It is overwhelming. We try to keep our focus on each day; just that segment of time.  We continue to pray for Denny to be given some weapon to fight this terrible disease.  Dr. Murphy is an awesome doctor and she is determined to find something to fight with. 

Denny knows you are cheering him on.  He sees your comments on my facebook and reads comments left on the blog.  The cards and emails help encourage him to keep fighting.  Each day is a victory.  Superman is still fighting for time.  Please keep him in your prayers.  Thank you.