It's not good.

Because I am not as strong as he is, my loving husband wrote my health update for me.  Grab a tissue and prepare...  Feel free to send any comments to Ken at ken@caufieldjames.com, or to me at pam.james@me.com.  Please ignore the gmail address.  I don't check it. 

We received some challenging news this week.

 

As many of you will recall, Pam underwent a course of chemotherapy two years ago, which really seemed to put a dent in the progression and activity of the cancer.  She has been keeping the cancer at bay until now.  With the cancer recently starting to become more active, around this last Thanksgiving, the oncologist started Pam on the same chemotherapy again with the hopes of another "push back".  So, Pam has been undergoing CVD chemo infusions for the last three months, which have been really kicking her butt both phsycially and emotionally. 

 

However, on Tuesday, her oncologist informed her that he wants to stop the chemo immediately.  Here's the tough part - the doc wants to stop because he does not believe the chemo is working any longer.  He does not want Pam to suffer through any more treatments without results.  While we agree, this is a bitter pill to swallow.  Traditional chemo is now off the table for good.

 

Moreover, the doc believes that the current tumors are growing, and that the cancer is spreading.  Pam's blood pressure has started to rocket out of control recently, due to the chemicals secreted by the tumors.  She will be taking some pretty heavy duty blood pressure meds that have, in the past, turned her into quite the zombie (tired, sleepy, listless).

 

A huge challenge is that there is not a protocol for any "next step" in the treatment process.  There is no "next drug" or "next therapy."  There is no current course to treat her cancer, but only to treat her symptoms.

 

We are stunned.  We are scared.  There have been some pretty tearful moments around our house the last couple days.  Our kids (Kassy and Cody) have been processing.  We all have.  Roller coaster emotions are now the new normal.

 

Pam has been a warrior.  Through headaches and nausea, boggling BP readings, sweats, pain, fatigue - and a whole lot of hopelessness - her spirits, resolve and faith remain firm.  She fights on.  My brave woman.

 

Somewhere in the longshot category - there is one cancer drug that the Mayo Clinic has been recently testing through a clinical study.  The same drug has been approved to fight other types of cancer.  The hope is we can get approved for this drug.  We will review this.  Other than this alternative, our docs are fresh out of thoughts.  The oncologist wants to regroup in two weeks to discuss possible alternatives.

 

So many of you have graciously supported my wife and family. Your prayers, well wishes, happy thoughts and positive mojo has lifted us.  If I can indulge you again.  Please pray for Pam's strength.  Pray for family strength.  Pray for the obliteration of cancer.  Pray for a miracle.

 

Endless thank yous to you all.  Your love and support keep us afloat.  We love you guys.  The James Family.

 

P.S.  Feel free to forward to anyone willing to fold their hands and bow their head for Pam.  Thank you.