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Maybe we’re on to something
I’m more of viewer than a poster at this site, but a few weeks ago I asked if any one had any experience with MVAC versus Alimta as a third line treatment for TCC. I was anticipating the worst of my August scans. Well the good news is that my scans showed no new nodes and the existing nodes had not gotten any larger. I know any one visiting this site is dealing with the roller coaster of emotions from dealing with this insidious disease, so God knows we can all use some good news from time to time. If you’re like me maybe you’ve grown a little leery of good news, since it took me a while to accept the harsh realities of TCC. But what the heck maybe we’re on to something.
Backing up a bit. January 07 I had a neobladder put in. March 07 to June 07 I completed a gem/cis cycle. From June 07 to April 08 my scans showed no evidence of disease. In April a new node was discovered in the iliac chain and I began second line treatment with docetaxel (Taxotere). The June scan showed the node was growing and new nodes appeared in my right lung. I was in a clinical trial and the study drug, Zactima, was added to the treatment. Zactima is a VEGF blocker. Yesterday the August scans showed that there were no new nodes and the existing ones had not grown. We’ll stay the course, a one hour infusion every 21 days and a daily pill. In October we’ll have more scans and see if we’re really on to something. I’m tolerating the treatment quite well and my wife and I will enjoy the next few months with a visits with our granddaughter and just making memories together.
When I was first diagnosed I was told survival chances were quite low. My attitude has always been a “low chance” is better than “no chance”. I’m sure we’re all trying to make the most of that chance and wanted to share a small success.
The link to study I’m in is http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00378794?term=zactima&recr=Open&rank=18
Prayers of courage and survival to all,
Dan Peters
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6 Replies
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Leigh,
As I said in my last post there seems to be no relief from this disease. While my scans were promising, and that’s what I try to stay focused on, my persistent low grade fever and now leg pain best desribed as “shin splints” haven’t allowed my to feel too good about my progress. Maybe next week when I return to the doctor I’ll get back on track. I’ll do my best to keep you and everyone posted.
Dan
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Dear Dan,
I am very inspired by your journey so far and wish you all the best with the Zactima treatment you are having.
Pease do keep us updated…
Leigh
Leigh, 39
Dx July 2007
TURBT July 2007
RC/Neobladder ,Studer Pouch, September 2007
Erasmus Centrum Rotterdam
TNM Classification: pT4 N2 Mo
4 cycles aduvant chemo Gemzar & Cisplatinum
Dr. Benson’s protege, James McKiernan was my surgeon. He was wonderful, the best bedside manner I’ve had from a doctor and I’ve had more than a few.
Good luck to you and your family.
Dan
I am also in NJ. We were going to meet with a surgeon there named Dr. Mitchell Benson…but that was before we knew about the spread to the bones. My father is now receiving chemo by where we live in central Jersey.
Melissa,
I’m in NJ and being treated at New York Prebyterian-Columibia University Medical Center. There are hospitals nationwide associated with the study, which is led by Dana-Farber in Boston.
Dan
Dan,
Thank you for your post! I have been hoping to hear even the smallest bit of good news lately! I am glad that your scans came back as they did. My father is currently being treated with Gem/Cisp. His next scan is next month and we are all praying it is positive. It is so difficult to go through chemo and the chance that is doesn’t always work is devastating.
Again, thank you for sharing your story!! I have also looked into your clinical trial. Where are you located?
xoxo
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