Thursday update.

Our days have been busy with consultations both at PAMF and Stanford on ways to manage my pancreas mass – all assuming it to be carcinoma. Since it is not operable, the options are forms of chemo and radiation.

We are so thankful that we could talk with so many expert physicians this week in our effort to make an informed decision regarding treatments. And all of them took time to hear our questions and get to know us a bit. Some familiar faces appeared and a number of mutual friends had prepared the way for us – so that was a special bonus.

Tomorrow, Friday morning, I am having endoscopy for biopsy and gold marker placement. The biopsy results will be returned early next week. Already I have baseline/staging PET scans and CTs scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. So it would seem that by Wednesday I would be ready to begin treatments.

Having looked at several options, my first choice is a chemo called Gemzar which is given once a week for 3 weeks. After 2 weeks rest following this I’m opting for a targeted radiation called Trilogy which is given over a few hours at one setting. Then after two weeks more Gemzar.

The approvals and authorizations are still in the hands of the provider of my insurance, so there could be some changes. Just pray that God’s hand would be on the whole process – especially the GI endoscopist tomorrow morning, and the authorization for treatments as proposed.

Grey’s arm seems to be doing well but the kids are still adjusting to the 8 hour time zone shift so our sleep patterns are weird – along with theirs! But it is good to have Michelle and the kids with us and Kristy, the nanny, is a wonderful blessing. Their London return plans are uncertain, but it seems likely they may stay for a couple of weeks more and try to see more friends and family on this trip.