Monday, August 30, 2010

Dad Update!

Dad and Mom went on an awesome trip the last week of July funded by an anonymous donor. If you’re reading this, Mr. Anonymous, THANK YOU! They had the best time. They came out to visit ME in Florida! It felt like Christmas having them here all to myself. They also went on a cruise and had an amazing time. They said they didn’t even think about the cancer the whole time they were on the ship, they just relaxed and enjoyed their time together.

On August 3rd, Dad started radiation and Temodar (chemo). He goes to radiation 5 times a week Monday-Friday, and as I type this he only has two weeks left! He also takes his chemo medicine everyday. As their insurance is not paying for the chemo, we thought they would have to pay out-of-pocket the 10,000 a month price tag, but the Commitment To Care Foundation, thanks to many prayers, is providing the chemo free of charge. We are SO GRATEFUL. It is truly a miracle.

The radiation makes Dad tired, but he is starting to feel better as he gets off the Decadron. The Decadron also gave him some diabetes issues, but he will hopefully get off insulin soon. He is also starting to lose his hair, but he looks cool bald. The doctor found some blood clots in his legs, so he also now gets two injections a day for that. My dad, the walking pin-cushion.

Good news! Dad starts the study on September 8th. The study is an experimental drug that has shown amazing results. It is a miracle that he got into it and we are so happy! He will get a 90-minute infusion the first day, then in 2 weeks, a 60-minute infusion, then in two weeks a 30-minutes infusion. If he handles those well, he will continue on the 30-minute.

All in all, Dad is doing well. He is the toughest man alive. Please keep him in your prayers. He is so grateful for all the prayers and help so far. Thank you!

4 comments:

Amber said...

Glad to hear that he is doing well. We are praying for him.

Carrie said...

Stef, that all sounds so amazing! Your dad is the most deserving person of miracles so I am so happy all of these are happening for him. I will keep him in my thoughts and prayers.

Sensuousgirl said...

Thank you so much for the update. I have been thinking about your family so much and I love getting to know what's going on without having to call and drudge up something you don't necessarily want to talk about. Love you all!

Kelsey K. Hartley said...

I feel hope when I hear there are anonymous donors and foundations who pull a few strings to help just one family. I'm so glad your dad is getting all the love and support he needs!