October 13th update

Nancy had her appointment on Friday and here is the plan. We started Herceptin and will have the second dose tomorrow. These will be given weekly. The Lapatinib was approved late Friday, will be ordered tomorrow and Nancy will begin treatment Wednesday. This is 4-5 pills taken daily. Also on Wednesday she will be fitted for a mask used for full brain radiation. This will start next Monday (21st) and have 10 treatments. This is the latest technique in full brain radiation. They now have a way to minimize/avoid the hippo-campus region of the brain where the short term memory is located.


Altogether, we are doing three treatments: 1) Herceptin for most of Nancy’s body 2) Lapatinib for her brain 3) radiation for the brain. Hopefully we can get back in front of the cancer. Nancy is very weak. It is also great having the kids and grandkids here.

We are in a tough place right now – the statistics are not good. Having said that, Dr Anthony has 2 peer Doctors that have patients on this same new regimen and they are in year two. We also do not know what will be invented or available by trial soon.

Many of you want to call or visit and help. This must be balanced with quiet and restful time for Nancy. Please understand if we say no to help sometimes or ask to you to leave or shorten a visit / phone call so Nancy can rest. Your support has been incredible and we must keep a balance for her well-being.