Hi Everyone,
It has been a few months since I have updated! Until recently, not much had changed with Andy's treatment.
However, he did have scans today. Afterwards, he met with Dr. Feraro to discuss the results and his treatment plans. Unfortunately, his cancer has progressed. So, he is no longer eligible for the SGN-35 trial.
We are currently considering options, but it is most likely that Andy will have a cycle of Gemcitabine (Gemzar) as soon as possible. Depending on a lot of different variables - which are still unclear at this point - he may be eligible for the SGN-35 "Retreat" trial that starts in September. It would be at a much higher dose, on a different schedule - once every 3 weeks, followed by an "off" week, instead of every week for 3 weeks, followed by an off week. Much less driving!
Other options include an HDAC Inhibitor, or an intense chemotherapy followed by a stem cell transplant. There were a few others, but they weren't highly recommended and we're still gathering information on those. I will try to keep the site updated now that we are having more frequent changes!
Calvin and Olivia are full swing into their summer! They are taking swimming lessons right now, and have been making a lot of progress! They are both growing so much! Calvin lost two bottom teeth recently, with a 3rd one due to exit very soon.
Olivia took a trip to Grandma Jo's recently and enjoyed it quite a bit. She has been busy with art projects lately.
This weekend we are expecting a visit from Andy's brother Mike and his family. My parents are due to arrive sometime on Sunday, and will be taking the children to the annual Harrington Family Reunion in LeRaysville, PA. They are VERY excited (the children - not sure about Mom and Dad ha ha). They have been anticipating this year's trip since they got home last year!
I started the summer session at Georgia State on June 8th and now I know why many people opt NOT to take summer classes! The pace is blistering. I took a trip to L.A. to visit Andrew last Thursday through this past Sunday. It is beautiful out there. We fit a lot into 2 1/2 days. I will post some photos on my Facebook page. Coming home to "midterm" exams on Monday and Tuesday was rough, to say the least.
Please take a minute to sign the guestbook - we really like hearing from everyone. I have had some questions about this aspect of Caring Bridge so I will take a minute to try to answer them. You don't have to be "subscribed" to Caring Bridge to sign the Guestbook. I think you do have to give an email address, but you can opt out of having your email address "published" on the journal, and it is not stored anywhere. I have no way of knowing who is or is not subscribed to the site.
Have a great week everyone!
Kimberly