-Cheryl- Posted March 14, 2004 Share Posted March 14, 2004 Hey Folks, I just wanted to let you all know that I have an appt. set on March 23rd with GVAX Researchers. Baylor Hospital in Dallas is one of the Hospitals participating in this study, and I also happen to be getting my treatment there. My onc referred me via my request. He never even mentioned the trial, I had to read about it in the paper. I asked if I needed to gather my scans and other tests, but they said "No, we already have your file." So, I am assuming they know my story. My onc and surgeon are "not sure if its cancer." I met with my surgeon the day I picked up Jack from Baylor. He said that he "would hate to risk your life with such a risky surgery and the nodules be benign." I also asked about the swollen lymph on my trachea, again "it could be nothing." So I am scheduled for a another CT scan to check for changes and growth. Originally, I had uptake in my right supraclavicular node which put me a stage 3A-B. However, it disappearred after doing chemo. That would have been an ideal node to take to make a vaccine. I just don't know if they can get to the cancer, or if it even is cancer. Adeno-Bac likes to spread into the other lung, and that makes me really question the nodules being benign. From what I have read, Bac really responds best to the GVAX vaccine. As usual with this disease, there are so many unknowns and uncertanties. I am afraid to get my hopes up too much about this trial. I sure do not want to do more chemo, but will do what it takes to live. My onc is conservative on the chemo. I am feeling pretty good these days, still continuing the alternative treatments. I did have this bad dream the other night though, that "Death" had come for me disguised as my trusted sister. When I realized it was the Grim Reaper I went "Bruce Lee" on him. My husband came running in the bedroom to awaken me from the nightmare. He said, "Who were you fighting?" Ha! I was karate chopping, kicking, flipping....I was exhausted from fighting him all night. I just want to "thank you all" for the support. Jack was touched by your kind words. He is doing very well....with the exception of his diet!!! He starts rehab next week, and perhaps will get to meet with a dietician...the "wife nutritionist" just seems to make him angry. He won't even eat in front of me now! He carries his plate off into another room. I nag him about the salt and gallon of milk he drinks. Just because it is 1% doesn't mean "all you can drink." There I go...Ha! See what he has to put up with! Jack is actually very lean, its just his family history of heart disease that is really bad! If any one else here on this board has had any experience with this GVAX trial, please post about your experience. Becky G. don't give up on this trial, pm me if I can do anything to help. I will keep you all updated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MO_Sugar Posted March 14, 2004 Share Posted March 14, 2004 (((((Cheryl))))), Gentle hugs and prayers being sent our way! I hope it all works out for you with the trial and they are able to beat this beast! God Bless, MO Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
J.C. Posted March 14, 2004 Share Posted March 14, 2004 Cheryl, Sending good vibes, wishes and prayers that all goes well. Hugs, tender ones. J.C. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ginnyde Posted March 14, 2004 Share Posted March 14, 2004 Cheryl, When I asked Earl's onc about it, he said: He has a friend who is doing one of the trials. They need a 'golf ball' size tumor or alot of plueral effusion to make the tumor. It works best on non smoker women with BAC. Didn't go much further with him because he said Earl was not a candidate. Good luck. Ginny Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fay A. Posted March 14, 2004 Share Posted March 14, 2004 Cheryl, I'll be keeping fingers crossed that this works out for you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
carlton Posted March 14, 2004 Share Posted March 14, 2004 Hi Cheryl--- Good luck with the trail. If you can post what goes on with the trail know manyare interested. Again all the best . Glad jack is home and doing okay. Carlton Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Margaret Posted March 14, 2004 Share Posted March 14, 2004 Prayers for you both and all of yours. I will eagerly be watching for your reports on the progress of the trial...sounds great. Blessings and peace, Margaret Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chloesmom Posted March 15, 2004 Share Posted March 15, 2004 Cheryl, You go girl! I hope this is exactly what you need--vaccine is the answer, as far as I'm concerned. I wish you the best luck possible with your consultation. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
donaf Posted March 15, 2004 Share Posted March 15, 2004 Cheryl: So happy that you are able to do this trial! Praying for success. donaf Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted March 15, 2004 Share Posted March 15, 2004 I'll send all the power of positive thinking your way. Good Luck and here's wishing you smooth sailing. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
berisa Posted March 15, 2004 Share Posted March 15, 2004 Good luck on being the candidate of trying GVAX.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Marie Posted March 15, 2004 Share Posted March 15, 2004 Hi, the above post from guest is actually from me. I wasn't logged in. anyway this is just another chance to send you good wishes. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
-Cheryl- Posted March 16, 2004 Author Share Posted March 16, 2004 Thanks Guys for the encouragemnt. I will fill you all in on the paticulars after I meet wth the team of researchers. Like I said, I am not sure if I will even be a candiadate or not. I will update you all later. Cheryl Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Melinda Posted March 16, 2004 Share Posted March 16, 2004 Dear Cheryl and Jack, As I am am new to both this disease and this site (fiancee's mother dx'ed Friday 3/12/04)--I am just learning about GVAX. You are in our thoughts. Melinda Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
karen335 Posted March 16, 2004 Share Posted March 16, 2004 Hi Cheryl & Jack, Glad to hear that Jack is doing well. I too have to keep an eye on the hubby for the milk. He is such a milk lover and 1% too, it gets colder and he thinks it is better for him. lol Sending Prayers and cyber hugs from Southern California... Karen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Elaine Posted March 16, 2004 Share Posted March 16, 2004 I am so hoping that you will be a candidate--it will give you one more weapon against that intruder. Keep us posted and keep on loving your Jack and keeping him well too. You two are so special to us all. Elaine Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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