This month, on September 27th I and members of Team Rainbow Sherbert will be participating in the Undy 5000. It is not too late to join us or support my team! Thank you!
Friday, September 11, 2009
Has it really been 8 years?
May every man, woman, child, every citizen of the United States of America, and even all of the illegals take time today to remember 9/11/01. Talk about a day that will live in infamy. God Bless America and God Bless those whose lives were lost in New York, Washington DC and Shanksville PA. Nevber forget for if we forget it can and most likely will happen again!
What happened to summer?
It seems to me that the calendar just said June, I mean like yesterday! I just happened to look at the calendar this morning and it says September. What? Did I sleep the summer away? I didn't go anywhere, I didn't do anything, how did I miss summer? Is it possible that it hasn't arrived yet?
The latest on me is that I am waiting to hear if I qualify for a Phase II clinical trial for a new drug. In Phase I trials, researchers test an experimental drug or treatment in a small group of people (20-80) for the first time to evaluate its safety, determine a safe dosage range, and identify side effects. In Phase II trials, the experimental study drug or treatment is given to a larger group of people (100-300) to see if it is effective and to further evaluate its safety.
Yes, this is akin to being a guinea pig, but I have thoroughly researched this, discussed it with my oncologist ( who suggested it) and I have met with and talked to another oncologist at Fox Chase Cancer Center where the clinical trial is being done. To qualify for this trial I must have what is known as a microsatellite instability: Mutations in genes that repair damaged DNA cause regions called microsatellites to get longer or shorter, a phenomenon that scientists call microsatellite instability (MSI). Testing for microsatellite instability helps doctors determine whether a person is likely to have a gene mutation that causes hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer . Only people who have this MSI qualify for the trial. My DNA is being tested in Texas and it will be about 2 more weeks before I find out. We have temperarily stopped my chemo, as you must have a 4 week washout before beginning a trial. I am enjoying the break! If I do not qualify there are some Phase I trials to look at or I can go back on my chemo.
Either way I will keep you all posted.
I hope you all enjoyed your summer, I am still looking for mine!
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