We met with a new oncologist today for an initial screening to see if Lee can get into a clinical trial for a new monoclonal antibody drug that is showing some promise against colon cancer. Pending satisfactory results with blood-work, an ECG and another CT scan, the plan is for Lee to begin receiving this drug, called panitumumab, on the 12th of October. She’ll then get more every two weeks until either we no longer see satisfactory results, or Lee can’t tolerate the drug, or God chooses to perform a miracle and heal her completely.

Prior trials with this drug have shown what we would consider to be positive results in almost 50% of the patients receiving it; 10% of them experienced a reduction of tumors to at least half their size, and 38% either remained stable or saw reduction to at most half their size. Yes, that means 52% saw no positive effect and discontinued its use. And, yes, that’s scary to think about.

We’ve been so appreciative of your words of encouragement and your prayers. We need them!

Choosing to Remain Hopeful.