Greetings dear readers! Happy Spring!! (Those of us in New England do believe that spring will indeed come...) Another month gone by - many trips to Boston MassGeneral Hospital for the clinical trial. So I'm a happy lab rat! I've had three infusions with this new chemo - a biologic accompanying the chemo directly to the cancer cells. Mass General is a fantastic hospital and I feel hopeful with this new treatment to extend my life. Every day is precious!
Science Daily published this information (:http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/10/111028115340.htm) "Large numbers of Follate receptors typically indicate the most aggressive ovarian cancers, as well as a variety of other cancers such as breast, lung and kidney, [and now uterine cancer].
The combination, called EC145, delivers a Vinca alkaloid directly inside cancer cells, improving effectiveness while reducing side effects particularly in women [like me] who "overexpress" folate receptors. A similar approach of pairing the follate ligand, which is attracted to the receptor, with a drug that makes those receptors glow, enables physicians to see how many folate receptors are present and who would be the best candidates for this treatment."
The combination, called EC145, delivers a Vinca alkaloid directly inside cancer cells, improving effectiveness while reducing side effects particularly in women [like me] who "overexpress" folate receptors. A similar approach of pairing the follate ligand, which is attracted to the receptor, with a drug that makes those receptors glow, enables physicians to see how many folate receptors are present and who would be the best candidates for this treatment."
So is that enough science for one day?? at any rate, the hope is that I can continue to receive this combined treatment as long as, or whenever the cancer recurs. Ah the blessed Vinca - yet another plant based miracle for us. I plan to plant lots of it in honor of this new treatment!!
Meanwhile, Beth and I continue to speak up for Marriage Equality when ever possible - and applaud those who continue to work on this for us all. Luckily for Beth and me, Massachusetts allowed us to wed, and importantly, gain health coverage for Beth. THE TIME FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY IS NOW!!!
Thanks for listening - your support gives me strength and hope!! xxx
Sally --
ReplyDeleteI'm afraid I haven't checked your blog for a long time, so was amazed at all you've been doing since I last did so. I'm so glad, but not surprised, that you're continuing to lead such a full and ACCOMPLISHING life. Good for you on your insurance victory and good for you on bringing so much to your students and, obviously, all those in your life. Congratulations to you and Beth on your marriage. So much to keep fighting for, isn't there? I try to fight the good fight in Virginia, where we have a gubernatorial election this year. Spent the winter off the coast of Sarasota, FL, this year, though, so have a lot of political catching up to do. Will be stopping off in Wilmington, NC, to visit Paul Wilkes on my way back home. Best of luck with the clinical trial. Love, Barbara (Katz)