Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Interesting/Exciting News!

We have just finished our first appointment at Duke. The doctors are, as we expected, wonderful. Linda will be seeing Dr. Henry Friedman and Dr. Steve Silverman. Dr. Silverman asked us why the diagnosis of glioblastoma? He then showed us the pathology report (we had never seen that), which states that the tumor has characteristics consistent with a high grade glioma. Dr. Lacin has told us that it is a glioblastoma multiforme. The doctors at Duke think it is more likely an astrocytoma, which is still malignant and does not provide a good long-term diagnosis, but is much less aggressive than a glioblastoma multiforme. Since pathology did not precisely identify the type of tumor, all the doctors are guessing.

Another piece of excellent news - and a mark on the astrocytoma side - is that the latest MRI (taken a few weeks ago) shows that the tumor is rock-solid stable - no growth at all! It appears right now that the plan is for two more months of Temodar, then introducing Avastin, a chemotherapy treatment that has been around for several years, but has only recently been used for brain tumors - with some rather amazing results! Avastin carries a high risk of bleeding (the Coumadin Linda is taking is a problem), so please pray about that. It is a couple of months away, so we will take it a day at a time.

More in the near future, but I wanted to pass this good news along immediately. If this tumor is, indeed, an astrocytoma, that should lengthen the life expectancy by a year - and who knows what will happen with research in that year? Our hope, of course, is in the Lord, but our ultimate hope is not in this life at all - it is eternity with Jesus! It appears, to this point, that God is directing us to get the best medical help we can to deal with this current crisis. Our trust is ultimately in Him. Thank you so much for praying!

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

PTL for the exciting news! I was anxiously waiting to hear how today went. Although I must admit I need to read up on the medical terminology as I have no clue how to pronounce them much less what they mean... But you are good at putting it in layman's terms. (thank-you) I will continue to pray for complete healing.
Vickie

Anonymous said...

Brad, you make it as clear as Marcus Welby! I am sure you are some kin to Chad Everett from Medical Center!Remember that one? But seriously, thanks for the interesting/exciting news. You would not believe how all of this has encouraged me to pray fervently for the sick. For that I am thankful. PRAYING, Brad and Linda...Praying!!

Anonymous said...

Brad/Linda

We were excited to read your blog tonight. You will remain in our prayers. Hope to see you soon.

Cristi & Jeff Jewell

Anonymous said...

This is great news. We are still praying for a complete healing. As you know, our family LOVES you both and are continuing to pray everyday!
David and Mary Beth

Betty Jo Arnold said...

Thank the Lord, this news from Duke is encouraging! God is definitely at work on your behalf and to bring Himself glory. I pray for your strength and wisdom, and I am still praying for a miracle healing! I love you guys!!!!
Betty Jo Arnold