I had another CA125 tumor count done about 3 days ago and called for the results yesterday It unfortunately has climbed and is up to 157 now (normal range is 0-40). I do have another fairly fast growing tumor forming in my pelvic area near the last one that was removed. My doctor is anxious to get me started on chemo again before it progress’ much further causing me to possibly have bowel obstruction. My stomach muscles are still very sore from the last surgery, but improving daily. So, I think another surgery so close to the last one is out of the question unless it becomes an emergency.
Listen to this… timing is everything…
There just happens to be a research study program, in a limited number of locations affiliated with US Oncology Research, that has been opened and offered to onc/gyn physicians along with a small chosen group of their patients (200 total) with certain cancers to participate in . that happens to be me, my doctor and in my area. AND…I am one of those that have been given the opportunity to participate. I have signed up, but as of today I have not been accepted to participate. They are waiting for blood labs and urine reports first and will also be going over my records to see if I qualify. I’m very hopeful though… Is God’s timing great or what???!!
It will be a blind study using the product called Bevacizumab (which inhibits tumor growth by blocking the formation of new blood vessels) produced by Genentech, Inc. No one will know who is getting what until the study is completed, not even the doctors. It has been FDA approved for colon and lung cancers… but not for ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube carcinomas. Being a blind study means only half of those participating will actually receive the product and the other half will get a placebo. We would all be monitored very closely and have special tests performed through the process (CT’s and MRI’s, blood and urine tests, etc) all paid for by the research company. I will also be receiving my regular chemo treatments (not paid for by research) along with this and my doctor will be involved all the way in everything. I’m excited about it but I am leaving this decision in God’s hands as to whether I am accepted or if I receive the product or not.
I am scheduled for my first chemo treatment this coming Tuesday or Wednesday (conflict of which day is with the research group because of the Memorial Day holiday weekend). I’ll know for sure today or Monday. I am confident this reoccurrence of cancer is only a minor set back and things will be okay. I will be given two different chemo’s but upon my research of them, they are not as harsh as the last ones. They are: Gemcitabine and Carboplatin.
I hate to keep asking for your prayers, but they worked so well last time for all of us that it’s just a must.
I love you all and will let you know as things move forward.
Connie Deal | 
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