Help Cindy S. Hudson Fight Cancer!

Jeff Markin: Back from the Dead, Reborn Into the Light

2012-02-26T21:13:00.000-06:00

Jeff Markin: Back from the Dead, Reborn Into the Light

God's message is clear and understood. Thank you.

2012-02-12T13:42:00.000-06:00

This week went by really fast and I am thankful for that because mom starts her next treatment on tuesday. She goes in tomorrow just to give blood and then Valentine's day we will just be there in the morning. I really hope this one works.

I know God is working and is healing her. She is faithful, humbled, trusts in the Lord and is waiting patiently. Today we went to church at Oak Hills Church with Max Locado and is really wonderful. It was a little emotional for us because the theme was accepting, dealing with, and getting through trouble times and that here in this life we are in God's "waiting room". We must all be patient and trust in Him, and that He is working while we wait.

It was perfect and it was a perfect example of God's work. We needed to hear this message. Even though we believe and trust in His work, it was the icing on the cake just to hear the message through Locado and be comforted by his message.

So even though we are all waiting, we must accept the things we cannot change, have courage to change the things we can, and have faith in God's wisdom that he will guide us and direct our path.

Have a wonderful Sunday! Thank you.

-Vanessa

New Information on ALK resistant NSCLC

2012-02-09T20:32:00.000-06:00

New Research in Resistance to Xalkori (crizotinib) for ALK-driven NSCLC

By CraiginPA · Today at 1:34 am · 8 replies
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[Note: This is not a professional opinion, but a report of some very interesting research I read.]

There’s valuable information on resistance to Xalkori (crizotinib) in a newly-published article by Katayama & Shaw (as lead co-authors) and their colleagues in their article titled “Mechanisms of Acquired Crizotinib Resistance in ALK-Rearranged Lung Cancers” in the research journal Science Translational Medicine: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22277784
(Yes, that’s Alice Shaw, MD, PhD again, my oncologist at the Harvard-affiliated MGH in Boston.)

The research looked at just 18 patients with crizotinib-resistant cancer, but that’s enough to gain a lot of insight because of the deep lab analysis work done on those cancers. Although the odds of an individual having the different kinds of resistance won’t be reliable across all crizotinib patients, the value comes from being directionally insightful, not numerically precise.

For starters, only 28% (5/18) had either a resistant ALK mutation or an amplification of the ALK-fusion mutation. These are cases we’d hope would benefit from a 2nd generation ALK inhibitor. We don’t know if this percentage is representative of all crizotinib-resistant patients, but if it were it would imply only a “fair to good chance,” not a “likely chance,” that a 2nd generation ALK inhibitor would be helpful for crizotinib-resistant cancer.

The insights don’t end there, though. For example, the 2nd generation ALK inhibitors were found to vary in their effectiveness against the various resistant ALK mutations and might be less effective on the resistant cancer than crizotinib had been before resistance. And a couple of cases (2/18) developed an additional simultaneous route to bypass ALK inhibition via a gene called KIT.

Hmmm . . . That doesn’t sound so good. Is that all there is? Um, . . .

“There's one more thing” . . . (said in my best understated Steve Jobs / Detective Columbo voice*): . . .

If I’m reading the study correctly, most crizotinib-resistant ALK-driven cancer may have something you didn’t expect, and it might offer hope of being somewhat co-treatable with an additional inhibitor drug: EGFR! Not an EGFR mutation, but an over-active *normal* EGFR gene, pushing the cancer along. And it looks like this was found to some degree in almost every case they could test.

*(BTW, if you don’t understand the Steve Jobs / Detective Columbo reference, see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stevenote#.22One_more_thing....22)

=== Resistant ALK Mutation Variants ===

The first form of resistance is the emergence (in survival-of-the-fittest style) of drug-resistant variants of the ALK mutation (4/18 cases) and “amplification” of the ALK fusion mutation (1/18).

The four crizotinib-resistant ALK variant sequences in these patients are named L1196M (an important ‘gateway’ mutation), S1206Y, G1202R, and “1151T insertion”. (These would be in addition to some previously-reported ones named C1156Y and L1152R.) In the lab, S1206Y wasn’t as resistant as the other three, suggesting crizotinib might still slow some weakly resistant variants even if unable to stop them.

The team lab-tested three 2nd generation ALK inhibitor drugs (TAE684, CH5424802, and ASP3026) against some ALK mutations. I might be misinterpreting the data, but against the original ALK these three drugs and crizotinib looked comparably effective. Against the four resistant ALK mutations, their effectiveness varied and the best wasn’t always the same. None were as effective against the resistant mutations as crizotinib had been against the original ALK mutation (and none was very effective against 1151T ins).

At first glance this might suggest shrinkage might be less common when treating resistant mutations with 2nd generation ALK inhibitors, but neither LDK 378 nor Ariad AP26113 were tested or mentioned and only a few mutations were tested. So for now, I’ll remain hopefully optimistic that at least one drug will be found effective enough to do the job for a particular resistant ALK mutation for a while.

(BTW, the marketing material from Ariad on their own early lab work for AP26113 suggested it might work on many ALK variants, including T1151, L1152, C1156, I1171, F1174, V1180, R1181, L1196, L1198, G1202, E1210, E1241, F1245, I1268, G1269, Y1278, and S1206 [that last one requiring a very high dose]. I think most of these were synthetically mutated using lab techniques rather than naturally occurring in patients, but clearly some show up in patients and any of them potentially could.)

=== Amplified ALK Mutation ===

One patient had resistance from amplification of the original “ALK fusion” mutation. (I think this might be what some studies refer to as gene “copy number gain” (CNG).) Basically, it’s the same original ALK mutation, but just more of it, too much for the crizotinib to block it all.

Hypothetically, I’d guess this might mean that a higher dose of crizotinib might help a little more for a while if the patient’s health can tolerate the side-effects and the FDA allowed it, or maybe a 2nd generation ALK inhibitor might help for a while (if one is more potent or more narrowly targeted to the ALK mutation, e.g., maybe the TAE684 column in article’s graph 1E ). Your oncologist should be able to discuss whether something like this could be testable or treatable in an ALK-targeted way.

=== HSP90 Inhibitor ===

With that as context, the research team’s lab work also found that a different kind of inhibitor might sometimes be more effective than the ALK inhibitors they were testing. HSP90 (heat shock protein 90) assists ALK fusion proteins. HSP90 inhibitors are being tested in clinical trials. The research team tested the HSP90 inhibitor 17-AAG (a derivative of natural geldanamycin) and found it was highly effective against the ALK mutations they tested. At the concentration they used, it seemed more potent than all the other drugs they tested, but it also was potent against the normal non-mutated ALK gene, which could mean stronger side effects, too. Other clinical research studies will have to determine the right HSP90 inhibitor and dose level to balance effectiveness vs. tolerable level of side effects.

=== KIT Amplification ===

Two of the 18 ALK resistance cases also had a second simultaneous resistance mechanism: amplification (e.g., copy number gain) of the KIT gene which led to over-expression of both KIT protein and a KIT-assisting ligand called “stem cell factor” (SCF). In engineered cells this combination made the cells resistant to crizotinib, yet sensitive to crizotinib if KIT were inhibited using Gleevec (imatinib).

So apparently there can be multiple simultaneous mechanisms of resistance in crizotinib-resistant cancer cells. For patients whose resistance is known to involve KIT/SCF, it sounds promising that an existing drug might eventually be available to help control the KIT route.

=== EGFR Activation (Phosphorylation) ===

The big surprise was phosphorylated EGFR (pEGFR) mediated resistance, detected in all but one of the cases that could be tested. This is not an EGFR mutation, nor EGFR amplification (e.g., copy number gain), but EGFR activation (phosphorylation, i.e., charged up and working). FWIW, according the article this might possibly be caused by up-regulation of the EGFR receptor itself and two ligands (EGFR ligand amphiregulin and ErbB3 ligand NRG1).

From that data presented, it seems the EGFR activation is usually present even before starting crizotinib and might limit response to crizotinib. In an experiment on a patient’s pre-crizotinib cells which were sensitive to crizotinib but less than normal, treatment with both Xalkori (crizotinib) and Iressa (gefitinib) suppressed cell growth more potently and induced significant apoptosis. In another experiment, it appeared an improved response might be possible by inhibiting both ALK and EGFR, even though the effect wasn’t as potent as crizotinib alone had been on cells that didn’t have EGFR activation. (This suggests there’s more going on here than just these two tyrosine kinases.)

=== It’s So Complicated ===

Yes, it’s complicated. Some ALK inhibitor resistance is due to a resistant ALK mutation, some is due to amplification … amplification … amplification (yes, I’m repeating myself more times than you can handle), some is due to KIT amplification, some is due to EGFR activation, and sometimes inhibiting multiple resistance routes still isn’t enough to lock down the cancer. (We obviously don’t know all the biochemical players in the cancer orchestra yet.)

This sounds like an example of how amazingly adaptable the human body is. You can inhibit or break a gene and you’re your body will try to compensate; you inhibit something more, and it tries to compensate again. That makes it hard to stop cancer, but research like this gives me hope that someday science will learn all the things we’ll need to do to control this beast for many years (most of the time).

=== So What Do We Do? ===

So what should we do when we develop crizotinib resistance?

Ask your oncologist (once they’ve had a chance to read the article). If they have questions, they can contact one of the authors.

For myself, I’d ask my oncologist if it’s possible to have a fresh biopsy of my resistant cancer tested for resistant or amplified ALK mutations, phosphorylated EGFR, and other possible mutations (e.g., KIT), and then treat the resistance accordingly.

Even without testing, I might ask my oncologist if he/she would consider giving ALK+EGFR combo inhibition a try (if the FDA would allow it), especially if my initial response to crizotinib was less than good. If not, I’d hunt for a combo-drug trial of it if one exists. Maybe one of us will find that answer and share it.

Sooner or later, a jump from the ALK inhibitor track to another track will be needed. In this research article, the HSP90 inhibitor experimental trial track seemed promising for crizotinib-resistant ALK-driven lung cancer. Your oncologist may be able to suggest which HSP90’s look most promising. (Other possible tracks: surgery, radiation, chemo, other chemo, immunotherapy, or other experimental things, if time permits.)

This summary and the abstract at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22277784 may suffice for most, but your oncologist and some of you will want to buy and read the full article. It’s available by just following the below-the-abstract “LinkOuts” expandable-menu to the publication. (And if you find errors in my summary, please let me know so I can fix it promptly.)

Best hopes

The History of Cancer

2012-02-02T22:33:00.001-06:00

The History of Cancer

By Lisa Fayed, About.com Guide
Updated July 08, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
See More About:
hippocrates
cancer causes
cancer treatment
diagnosing cancer

"The History of Cancer"

The History of Cancer: How Cancer was First Discovered and Treated
Believe it or not, cancer has afflicted people for several centuries. It is not a new disease. It is because of the early research that we hold a greater knowledge of cancer today.

Origin of the Word "Cancer"
The word cancer came from the father of medicine, Hippocrates, a Greek physician. Hippocrates used the Greek words, carcinos and carcinoma to describe tumors, thus calling cancer "karkinos." The Greek terms actually were words to describe a crab, which Hippocrates thought a tumor resembled. Although Hippocrates may have named "Cancer," he was certainly not the first to discover the disease. The history of cancer actually begins much earlier.

The First Documented Case of Cancer
The world's oldest documented case of cancer hails from ancient Egypt, in 1500 b.c. The details were recorded on a papyrus, documenting 8 cases of tumors occurring on the breast. It was treated by cauterization, a method to destroy tissue with a hot instrument called "the fire drill." It was also recorded that there was no treatment for the disease, only palliative treatment.

There is evidence that the ancient Egyptians were able to tell the difference between malignant and benign tumors. According to inscriptions, surface tumors were surgically removed in a similar manner as they are removed today.

What Early Physicians Thought Caused Cancer
Today, we know so much about the human body; however early Greek physicians weren't so fortunate. Hippocrates believed that the body was composed of four fluids: blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile. He believed that an excess of black bile in any given site in the body caused cancer. This was the general thought of the cause of cancer for the next 1400 years.

In ancient Egypt, it was believed cancer was caused by the Gods.

The Birth of the Pathological Autopsy
Autopsies done by Harvey in 1628 paved the way to learning more about human anatomy and physiology. Blood circulation was discovered, opening the doors for more research on diseases. It wasn't until 1761 that autopsies were performed to research cause of death in ill patients. Giovanni Morgagni of Padua was the first to do such autopsies.

More Theories on the Causes of Cancer
The lymph theory developed in the 17th century, replacing Hippocrates' black bile theory on the cause of cancer. The discovery of the lymphatic system gave new insight to what may cause cancer. It was believed that abnormalities in the lymphatic system was the cause.

It wasn't until the late 19th century that Rudolph Virchow recognized that cells, even cancerous cells, derived from other cells.

Other theories surfaced, such as cancer being cause by trauma, parasites, and it was thought that cancer may spread "like a liquid." It was later concluded that cancer spread through malignant cells by German surgeon, Karl Thiersch.

In 1926 a Nobel Prize was wrongfully awarded for the discovery of the cause of stomach cancer a worm.

The 20th century saw the greatest progression in cancer research. Research identifying carcinogens, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and better means of diagnosis were discovered.

Today, we are able to cure some types of cancer, and research is ongoing. Clinical trials and research studies are our key to finding a cure, or a definitive method of prevention.

Sources:
American Cancer Society - History of Cancer.
The Chemical Heritage Foundation -Chemotherapy Timeline.
National Cancer Institute - Closing in on Cancer: Solving a 5000-Year-Old Mystery).

http://cancer.about.com/od/historyofcancer/a/cancerhistory.htm

Prostate Cancer Found in Egyptian Mummy

2012-02-02T22:25:00.001-06:00

This is an interesting article. Of course, some cancers are genetic and some cancers are due to environmental impressions. My mom's cancer is not genetic, but we don't know what environmental factor or factors have mutated her genetic DNA causing this to happen. We may never know. It is in God's hands.
-Vanessa

Prostate Cancer Found in Egyptian Mummy

Posted by Caitlin Bronson on January 30, 2012 9:08AM Boomer Health and Lifestyle.

A 2,200-year-old mummy was found to have prostate cancer, leading scientists to question whether genetics played a role.

The world’s second oldest case of prostate cancer was found in a 2,200-year-old mummy, the Canadian Press reports. According to American University in Cairo professor Salima Ikram, extensive testing of the mummy revealed that the disease was not caused by environmental influences, but rather by genetics.

“Living conditions in ancient times were very different,” Ikram explained. “There were no pollutants or modified foods, which leads up to believe that the disease is not necessarily only linked to industrial factors.”

Whether prostate cancer is caused by genetics or environmental factors is a big question in the field of cancer research, the Canadian Press said. While scientists often link cancer to diet and industrial toxins, older cases of cancer suggest that genetics may play a role as well.

Ikram and her team have been studying the ancient Egyptian mummy in Portugal for the past two years. The prostate cancer was discovered by using a high-resolution computerized tomography (CT) scan, which revealed lesions on the mummy’s lumbar spine.

The man died in his forties, researchers say. The mummy is kept at the National Archaeology Museum of Lisbon.

The oldest known case of prostate cancer was found in a 2,700-year-old skeleton of a Scythian king in Russia, AUC said in a statement. His skeleton was found in a steppe in Southern Siberia.

http://www.thirdage.com/news/prostate-cancer-found-in-egyptian-mummy_01-30-2012

Ups and downs, ups and downs... but always end up : )

2012-02-02T22:04:00.001-06:00

Okay, so this week has been a bit of a roller coaster, but mom is staying strong and taking one day at a time. Last weekend was good. Saturday mom went over to my older brother John's house for salmon burgers. Mom said they were very good and she had a nice time. Sunday we went to a wonderful new church on the Southeast side of town for a really nice Healing service. We had a good time and everyone there was so kind and loving and expressed their faith and belief in God. It was a beautiful experience and mom really felt great afterwards. So did I. It was really comforting and was a good release. On Monday, the pain in mom's back subsided and it felt miraculous. It was amazing because it was the first day that mom had no constant discomfort or pain for at least 2 weeks. Tuesday the pain came back and was pretty strong by evening. It really scared me and affected me to hear her in that much pain. It was difficult that night emotionally. Wednesday, mom was up and out and trying to do everything she can and did very well for most the day, but after a while the pain can get to be too much and its hard on her. Oh then she got a flat tire that afternoon. Nice. It was okay though triple A came out and changed the tire. I was going to it, but mom didn't want me to. Besides the triple A guy came very quickly after about 15 minutes. So, after that mom went home and I came over a little later and stayed the night. Thursday (today), mom rested this morning and then made her way to the courthouse. Her case was reset and she stayed for a little while downtown, but came home after. It was a little rough with some people there, but we forgive those who trespass against us. Anyway, I picked up some dinner which was good, but I think I'm going to buy a juicer and try to get more fresh vegetables in our diet. I've read so much about juicing and its just really good for you all around. Perhaps we can find some concoction that we will enjoy. Anyway, I am here with mom tonight and she is feeling better. We are enjoying each others company and having a nice night.

Thank you all for your prayers and compassion.

-Vanessa

Damn You, Cancer | Owning Pink

2012-01-30T22:06:00.000-06:00

Damn You, Cancer | Owning Pink

I found this website tonight and I wanted to share it. It is another blog and it discusses a lot of different things not just cancer. Some of you may know of it already. It has been noted in the media (Oprah show and others).

I especially like this blog topic- http://www.owningpink.com/blogs/owning-pink/understand-why-you-may-be-sick-suffering . This blog explains that the reason we are here and exist is to continue God's work, the reason we encounter pain is to better understand ourselves, our needs, and the needs of others. It is because we as a society don't know how to appreciate perfection, the world we live in, we have to keep learning and working to create the world we are hoping for- a world of understanding, love, tolerance, and kindness.

Anyway, I have enjoyed it and I hope you do too.

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes

Exhausted.

2012-01-27T21:55:00.000-06:00

It has been a long week and mom is wiped out. We started with a 13hour doctor visit monday, and a half day tuesday of scans and bad news of the tumors growing, and then wednesday we saw the doctor to discuss the next step of treatment. It was wednesday when mom was approached by Darlene Dorsey of WOAI at the courthouse and she was just amazed that after hearing bad news, and being stage 4 that mom went back to work after. Thursday she followed mom around in the morning and then we just talked about the journey we've had so far dealing with this. We were pleasantly surprised for the exposure and we are truly grateful to everyone who is supportive, encouraging, and compassionate. Today was a long day and mom was downtown again and running through the court house. She got home around 6:30 and has fallen asleep. She will get a good nights sleep and be able to relax.

Thank you again and we will have a good weekend enjoying our time together.

-Vanessa

Attorney fights for clients as she battles cancer

2012-01-26T18:53:00.000-06:00

Attorney fights for clients as she battles cancer

WOAI Channel 4 news recognizes Cindy Hudson's plight of cancer.

4th line treatment.... We have a great doctor.

2012-01-25T21:31:00.000-06:00

We saw Dr. Tolcher today and he is continuously optimistic and encouraging. He is so wonderful and uplifting. Yesterday was really hard and we were bummed out about the news of the medicine not working. I think I knew it wasn't, but I/we were still so hopeful. When we left the dr's yesterday we felt so downtrodden. Its been one treatment after another ending in failure. Even still, mom has her head up and is ready to take the next step. I know she feels better having the stronger pain medicine and it is not affecting her in woozy way at all. When she explained that the pain medicine wasn't having any affect on her, the doctor explained how pain medicine works (he explains Everything!!! He's amazing!). Pain medicine works by counteracting the pain-nerve receptors. So if someone is in pain the pain meds essentially turn off the pain receptor and so the person is their normal alert self (unless they take too much or mix). If someone is not in pain and takes pain medicine, well then the medicine doesn't have anything its working against and so the woozy/weird side effects become present (that's my understanding/layman's guide of it).

Anyway, last night's stormy weather was refreshing in its own. It was as if the hard rain was washing away any feelings of hopelessness or defeat. This morning the sun was out and it was beautiful. My mom, older brother, and I met at the doctors office and waited to hear his words of encouragement. His demeanor is jovial and he enlightens us with his knowledge and compassion. He explains the next clinical trial (I'll write more on it in a separate post) and how its supposed to work. Mom, my brother and I are ready to move on in this direction and mom is ready to head back downtown for a Mediation hearing (still working). I stuck around to get the final copies. After getting the copies of we needed to keep I went back to Dr. Tolcher and his nurse to say thank you. I wanted to thank him for being our doctor and being the amazing doctor that he is. We are so grateful to be at the START center finally and have such a compassionate medical team working with us. He said to me that he really does care about my mom and loves working with her. I started to cry and he immediately brought me a tissue and gave me a big, comforting hug! He truly is a gift from God and Canada!! ; ) -He's from Canada.

So we go back next week and mom will start the new trial on Valentine's Day.

-Vanessa

Cindy Sue Hudson's Cancer Fighters

2012-01-25T20:30:00.000-06:00

You can find us on facebook for more updates. I put updates on both the blog and on facebook. Facebook is a very useful tool of communication and expression. If you prefer facebook you can find us by using the link below and the facebook page title is "Cindy Sue Hudson's Cancer Fighters", when at the page Click "Like" and you can see our updates, thoughts, and words of encouragement.

https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cindy-Sue-Hudsons-Cancer-Fighters/218024158215301

Thank you.

-Vanessa

Help Cindy S. Hudson Fight Cancer!

2012-01-25T20:06:00.000-06:00

We often ask Why?

2012-01-25T19:52:00.000-06:00

"Why". Such a small word with an endless thought process and a neverending road to more questions than answers. I ask why has this happened to my mom every day and I ask hasn't she dealt with enough in life? I can only come to one answer and my answer is that if we were not dealt anything else in life than we wouldn't be living. Yes, my mom has had a constant barrage of things to deal with and overcome in life thus far. The most difficult being the drowning of my brother 30 years ago. My mom has been through a lot. She is a single mother of 3, a teacher, a nurse, a geologist, a lawyer, an avid church goer, and a giver. She is an amazing woman and is always there for everyone else. So I can only think that God ran out of difficult things to put in her path because she overcame every obstacle that has been put in her way. The only thing left is cancer. Cancer. How do we deal with cancer? I look to my mom and she gets up every morning and continues to work and help others. We just don't give up and we keep on living and building on our relationships and finding new things to appreciate and enjoy every day.

-Vanessa

Today was tough, but mom is hanging in there and waiting for a cure

2012-01-24T23:19:00.000-06:00

I will edit and write more tomorrow, but for now I will just give a little update. Mom was in some really excruciating pain yesterday and that made the oncall doctor very nervous as to whether or not the medicine was working so he ordered unscheduled CT scans. She had the scans this morning and unfortunately it showed that the tumors have continued to grow and a moderate pace. So, she did not take her dose for today and is starting the wash out period before we can move on to trying something else. She is positive and hopeful and determined to get better. On the bright side the tumors are not imposing on any arteries or major organs so that is something that we have to keep in mind as good news. Also, the cancer has stayed in the chest cavity and has not shown up anywhere else in the body. That is extremely important and really great news. The bad thing is that the tumor mass in her right lung is brushing up on the rib cage and possibly attaching itself there. As long as it does not get in the bone is what we have watch for. Of course this brushing up on it is excruciatingly painful and it was really hard to see her in that much pain. The doctor did prescribe a stronger pain medicine and I filled it today so she has it and it seems to work well. We go back tomorrow to see her doctor and discuss all of this and our next steps.

Keep praying, keep your faith, and smile because she is here and being so strong and encouraging.

Thank you.

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes

Long day today and still here at the START center.

2012-01-23T21:38:00.000-06:00

I first just want to say how much I appreciate the nurses and staff here at the START center. They really are so wonderful, kind, and caring. I also am so grateful for our doctor. Dr. Tolcher is so personable and kind. He has a wonderful and enlightening sense of love about him. I am very pleased that he is my mom's doctor and is helping us.

So anyway, today is a long day for mom and she was here at the START center about 7:45am and was given her medicine around 9am. The nurses took blood at 30mins, 1 hour, 2 hour, 3 hour, 4 hour, 8 hour, and last 12 hour. We have one more to go.

She has been doing well in the mornings and feels okay, but as the day drags on she has pain in her back (where the lung is). This has been getting worse over the last week that I know of. I know she's been uncomfortable, but more recently its turned into excruciating pain. She has pain medicine for it, but may need something else to manage it better. We will ask the doctor tomorrow.

Today I brought lunch and we hung out together and played on the computer for a bit, but then the pain was becoming unbearable and she took some medicine and wanted to try and nap. I asked her on a scale of 1-10 how painful it was and she answered 11. She has a high pain tolerance, so when she says she's in pain its serious. I left a little before 4pm and went to the house. I came back over around 7:00pm and the nurse let me know that they had given her dilaudid after I left. Dilaudid (hydromorphone) belongs to a group of drugs called narcotic pain relievers, also called opioids. It is similar to morphine, but is synthetic. She is allergic to morphine and so can't take that. She was in a lot of pain. Anyway, I've been sitting here with her while she has slept peacefully. She just woke about 20 minutes ago and the nurse is finishing up with her last EKG and blood draw. She is feeling better and will be alright. She's a tough cookie!

Tomorrow we will see the doctor and she will only have to be here for the first part of the day.

Thank you and keep praying!

This week has been okay...

2012-01-20T11:03:00.001-06:00

Well, still not much to report on the clinical trial drug. We have to wait for the scans, but mom is doing well enough and isn't suffering from any new symptoms. Her current symptoms have increased in intensity though. She is now losing her hair which I think is really emotionally difficult. We can't be too sure if its the medicine or residual from the chemo medicine before and a combination of stress. We have been pretty stressed out because we are in a state of uncertainty and not knowing if it is working. Of course we are all praying and hopeful that it is. The nose bleeds have increased a bit, but not to a point of dire concern or hospitalization. The fatigue and exhaustion has increased, but she is getting up every morning and getting out of the house. So she is getting exercise which is great. Her appointment this last tuesday went well enough and the doctor told her that he is hopeful that this medicine is working because her lab work has been good and because she looks great!!! She has been there today as well for more blood work and ekg's. We will go back next tuesday and schedule the scans then.

Thank you for your prayers and God bless you all.

-Vanessa

Happy New Year to All from Cindy Hudson

2012-01-10T22:40:00.000-06:00

To all this New Year, I send blessings and the wish that you remain healthy and safe. I so much wanted to be able to say things are doing well and the tumors are shrinking. But I can't. I can say, however, that I have not given up and we continue to try another direction.

After going through 6 chemotherapy sessions there was some shrinking, so that was a good sign. Then the doctors thought this new drug, having been on the market for 2 months would be a positive step. So at $10,000 a month, I went through 2 months. I had some pain, but then it went away. The doctors let me fly to visit my son and grandsons for Thanksgiving. Great visit, very cute boys. I was feeling good but my fingernails were getting very brittle. We did the ct scans on my return, and the tumors had grown. So no more $10,000 a month drug and we set off to find another path to follow.

My children have been so strong for me, I am so grateful for their love and support. This is a tenuous fight and anyone who can be supportive for them too, I am most grateful.

As this new year begins, I hope to be in a clinical trial treatment program or on a drug treatment that proves positive in its effect. I want to be able to experience this year and many to come. To be able to work and continue to do my job. To be able to receive the hugs of so many and give hugs.

I care about life, I will stay strong and continue to appreciate the gifts God has put in my path. I thank you all for your prayers and support. I hope that as this new year begins and continues, that you continue your prayers and good thoughts. It can be very depressing knowing your life is being tormented by a disease that is unknown. I find comfort knowing you care, and will continue to draw strength from you.

Please read the blog, Vanessa is so strong in placing information: cindyhudson.blogspot.com. Any assistance and thoughts to share can be placed through the blog also.

I wish good cheer and lots of love, in God's name.
Love
Cindy

Electrocardiogram use in Cancer research

2012-01-10T22:21:00.000-06:00

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

ECG is used to measure the rate and regularity of heartbeats as well as the size and position of the chambers, the presence of any damage to the heart, and the effects of drugs or devices used to regulate the heart.

An ECG is very useful in determining whether a person has heart disease. If a person has chest pain or palpitations, an ECG is helpful in determining if the heart is beating normally. If a person is on medications that may affect the heart or if the patient is on a pacemaker, an ECG can readily determine the immediate effects of changes in activity or medication levels. An ECG may be included as part of a routine examination in patients over 40 years old.

Abnormal ECG results may indicate:

Myocardial (cardiac muscle) defect

Enlargement of the heart

Congenital defects

Heart valve disease

Arrhythmias (abnormal rhythms)

Tachycardia (heart rate too fast) or bradycardia (too slow)

Ectopic heartbeat

Coronary artery disease

Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis)

Changes in the amount of electrolytes (chemicals in the blood)

Past heart attack

Present or impending heart attack

Clinically stable lung cancer patients without cardiac symptoms suggestive of myocardial injury indicates the possibility of myocardial metastasis. Myocardial metastasis is often elusive, thus careful observation of ECG changes is of primary importance for the antemortem diagnosis.

To put it simply, ECG's help to let us know the condition of her heart, changes due to medications, but can also inform us of metastis (cancer spreading) to the heart.

-Vanessa

Appointment was good today and went well.

2012-01-10T22:01:00.000-06:00

Mom has an appointment every tuesday and friday where she first has blood drawn to check the levels of the medicine in her system and check her blood counts among other things. On tuesday's she visits with Dr. Tolcher to go over any symptoms, check her lungs, breathing, ask her questions, answer questions, do a general check up, and see how she is doing. After seeing the Dr. she has an ECG (electrocardiogram-test to measure the electrical activity of the heart-will post more on this later). After a while, she gets the medication for the week until friday's visit. Friday is about the same only she doesn't see the Dr. (unless its necessary).

Today's visit was good. There's not a whole lot new. Mom isn't experiencing any of the normal side effects (luckily theres not really any bad or crazy side effects noted with this drug). Mostly she is experiencing extreme fatigue and she has noted that her hair has been thinning, but now comes out when she runs her fingers through. Though she is still working, she is not working much. The days are exhausting, but she is doing so well and still wearing high heels! : )

I asked the Dr. if we could get scans early, but he explained that although we could it probably wouldn't show much because the medicine is still just building up and we really should give it the alloted time. Its only been 2 weeks and although I'm anxious, I do understand. We would have to do it again later anyway and so it would be an unnecessary expense to do it, plus it just wouldn't show enough information this early. So, we will wait 2 more weeks to get scans and in the meantime we will all keep praying.

Mom is feeling well enough and we are having good days together hanging out. We had a great day today just sitting and chatting together and then mom and I had dinner at Willies Grill and Icehouse (great place) -food was alright and I had a coupon, but the best was just being with mom and talking.

Tomorrow she will work some and then in the afternoon we will do some light grocery shopping together.

-Vanessa

A new diagnostic technique. It’s called EBUS (endobronchial ultrasound)

2012-01-10T21:29:00.000-06:00

A fairly new diagnostic technique is allowing lung cancer to be staged more accurately than a few years ago. What this means is you have better information to begin with the best plan of action and, ultimately, get best possible outcomes. It’s called EBUS (endobronchial ultrasound), and what brings it up a level from previous procedures is it enables visualization of lymph nodes beyond the airways. Not only can doctors visualize your lung and surrounding tissues, but they can do it without invasive surgical procedures they have had to rely on before.
Exactly what is EBUS and how is it done?
It’s a quick, relatively pain-free outpatient procedure performed during a bronchoscopy. This involves inserting a tube through your mouth or nose into the large airways leading to the lungs. Then an ultrasound probe (part of the bronchoscope) is used to visualize surrounding areas, including the lungs and mediastinum (chest area between the lungs). If something is seen warranting a closer look, your doctor will take a sample of tissue with a small needle guided by the ultrasound and send it to a lab for further evaluation.
“Because we can get to previously hard-to-reach places, and with minimal intervention, we can better understand the stage of lung cancer, if, and where it has spread. We can often avoid unnecessary interventions that require recovery time before moving to the next step,” says David Finley, MD, a thoracic surgical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
“What we can do with EBUS is significant because PET scans can produce false positives, as inflammation in the lymph nodes that is not cancer will light up on the scan. Conversely, up to 15 percent of PET scans and 30 percent of CT scans produce false negatives for lymph node involvement in the mediastinum and hilum,” says Dr. Finley.
Benefits
Beyond that it yields more accurate information, patients may be spared unnecessary surgeries, and there is less risk than with exploratory procedures. Less tissue is taken; there are no incisions and no scars.
What does EBUS mean for patients moving forward?
“We know exactly what treatments are indicated and which are not. It is not uncommon for patients who have been told they have no or very limited options because the disease is advanced to learn their cancer is only stage 1 or 2. We find out they are actually candidates for surgery. For people who are not surgical candidates, if we discover there is no node involvement we might be able to use radiation therapy to treat the tumor in the lungs.”
EBUS has something to offer late-stage patients too.
“Patients who are stage 4 will not have to endure treatments that won’t help. We do not say there are no options, but we have the knowledge to move on to the most appropriate individual plan, whether that be palliative radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination to alleviate pain, improve survival and quality of life,” says Dr. Finley.
Just what will EBUS tell my doctor?

Whether tumors or enlarged nodes seen on CT scan are malignant or benign
Help diagnose (stage) tumors within the lung or mediastinum or hilum
Help diagnose (stage) lymph nodes in the mediastinum

“In the last 10 years, imaging has significantly changed our ability to stage. Now the question is to confirm what the imaging tells us. And EBUS has been the next step forward to pathologically confirm what we see,” says Dr. Finley. “Better staging typically means the best possible outcome.”
To learn about clinical trials for EBUS:
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01467635

I found this at: http://www.1uponcancer.com/lung/

-I don't know if this would apply for mom or help much, but I will bring it up to Doctor as something interesting.

-Vanessa

Inspire.com an invaluable resource for Cancer patients and their loved ones.

2012-01-08T00:18:00.000-06:00

I want to share with you a website that has helped my mom and I through this journey of living with cancer. It is so incredibly helpful to have other around you who understand the new feelings that are experienced when you first find out you or a loved one has cancer. It is an amazing place to raise questions, discuss fears and anxiety, and it is an incredible place of finding hope and strength. It is a discussion board website where people share their stories, and help each other find solutions, encouragement, faith, and again an endless sense of hope. It is a support group and full of information. You can ask any question and there are so many people their to help and give love.

The site is www.inspire.com It is an open discussion forum relating to any illness or problem that you may suffer or want to know about. Of course, we are signed up for th lung cancer support group and more specifically, the Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Stage 4 group. It is truly inspiring and I encourage any one who needs a friend or has questions about something to join the group and talk to others who share your concerns or may help because they have answers (whether through experience or research), knowledge of treatment options and centers, and for encouragement and support.

"Inspiration can be found in the kind word of a stranger or in the story of someone struggling with a common problem."

The website "Inspire builds online health and wellness communities for patients and caregivers, in partnership with national patient advocacy organizations, and helps life science organizations connect with these highly engaged populations"

Go to www.inspire.com

Go with God.

-Vanessa

Still doing alright.

2012-01-07T23:54:00.000-06:00

Mom is doing well. We had lunch together yesterday and went shopping together for her grandson's (my nephews) today. Tomorrow we are going for a 2mile walk and depending on how she feels maybe an early dinner. She is not experiencing any side effects and the doctor says the medicine is still building up in her system. She has had a little cough, but she thinks its from allergies. Cedar is really high right now and it seems like everyone is suffering from it. Her spirits are high and she seems happy and good. She is so strong and amazing. Keep praying and we will find out more in a few weeks.

God bless.

-Vanessa

Dr's appointment today was good. Not much to report on the clinical trial drug

2012-01-03T18:16:00.001-06:00

Mom had a Dr's appointment today and there's not really much good or bad to report. She has only been on the new trial drug for a week. She isn't noticing any side effects and Dr. says that is because it is still building up in her system. She doesn't have any new symptoms either. He says it is safe to assume that the cancer has not spread anywhere else, so that is good to hear! Her spirits are up and she seems like she is doing well and feeling good. We won't find out anything about this drug working for 3 more weeks when she gets more scans done.

Anyway, some of what mom has to do as part of the clinical trial is get a vision test, an ekg, lots of blood draws, and a physical check every week. She looks good and is otherwise in good health (minus the having cancer).

In the meantime we are in a state of uncertainty, but we are hopeful and saying prayers every day! Thank you all!

-Vanessa

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T17:54:00.000-06:00

Mom and I rang in the New Year together by walking the 5k at Fort Sam base, San Antonio, Texas. It was fun and we had a great time. We took Bathsheba with us and watched the fireworks.

We hope everyone had a great New Year!

New Years prayer:
God, thank you for a new year. May everyone in our family be willing to begin anew with a clean slate. We know that you are always ready to forgive us. Help us to be willing to forgive ourselves and to forgive one another.

As we begin a new year, remind us of our truest values and our deepest desires. Help us to live in the goodness that comes from doing what you want us to do. Help us to put aside anxiety about the future and the past, so that we might live in peace with you now, one day at a time.

Thank you and God Bless!

-Vanessa

Healing Saint Peregrine of cancer healing

2011-12-29T16:30:00.001-06:00

O Glorious Saint Peregrine, patron of those who suffer from cancer, I call upon you and seek your help. Please intercede for all those afflicted with cancer.

Obtain for them comfort during their sufferings, strength when they feel weary, hope when they feel discouraged, and joy when they are downhearted.

Help them know the Peace of Jesus and the certainty of His victory in their suffering, through Christ Our Lord, Amen.

Healing Prayer for Those with Respiratory Ailments

2011-12-29T16:27:00.001-06:00

O Heavenly Father, God of Love, You gave us Your Son Jesus to be not only Physician of our souls but also Healer of our bodies and minds. Lord Jesus, I turn to You in this time of need. Please come to me now, and lay Your healing hands on Cindy Hudson. Let the warmth, peace and healing power of Your Spirit fill Cindy Hudson now with Your life and love.

Heal Cindy Hudson's respiratory ailment according to Your Divine Will, Lord Jesus, and enable her to serve You with a healthy body, soul, and spirit. May Your joy, O Lord, be her strength this day.

Amen.

Prayer to Saint Bernadine for those who suffer with respiratory ailments

2011-12-29T16:23:00.001-06:00

Glorious Saint Bernadine, look down from Heaven and intercede for the many people who suffer from respiratory ailments in our world.

Help them to find patience in their sufferings and resignation to His Divine Will. Ask the Lord to grant them strength when they feel weary, hope when they feel discouraged and joy when they are downhearted.

O great Saint Bernadine, you who suffered from a respiratory defect was miraculously cured through intercession of the Blessed Mother, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions.

Amen.

Clinical Trial Drug is ASP-3026

2011-12-27T22:12:00.000-06:00

Is an ALK ihibitor. It is similar to crizotinib (Xalxori), but it is a stronger form (more potent) than the crizotinib. The pharmaceutical company that is sponsoring it is Astellas Pharma.

All day at the START center and still there....

2011-12-27T18:12:00.000-06:00

She is doing good today. She has been at the START center since a little before 8am. They did a phisical, drew blood, and an ekg before giving her the medicine around 10:30am. Since then they have drawn blood and ran tests on it about 9times so far. She has a few more before the day is over for her. She will be able to leave a little after 9pm. A very long day!!! She is doing well and has been able to nap a little bit. I hope it works!!!

She will go back tomorrow for one more blood draw in the morning and then after that she will return on friday.

Thank you and God bless!

-Vanessa

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-26T14:02:00.000-06:00

We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas full of love, great memories, and good spirit!

Mom, John, Darinka, (Bathsheba-the dog and Katty[a.k.a Patches]-the cat) and I shared a wonderful Christmas Day together. We indulged in a delicious holiday meal of Honey Bake ham, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and crepes! It was all very good and we were full for the day! Afterwards, we enjoyed opening presents from under the tree and enjoyed some laughs with each other.

The best Christmas present of all was received on friday from the START center when they informed us that mom has been accepted into the clinical trial and will amazingly start on tuesday the 27th!

We are so grateful and just thrilled with this good news!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Love and blessings,

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes and Family!

Understanding Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase

2011-12-23T23:42:00.000-06:00

Interesting article on Interpreting the Alk gene rearrangement:
http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/interpretive-guide/index.html?alpha=L&unit_code=60619

A youtube video explaining the FISH test for the Alk mutation in NSCLC.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bfsq5Vdr1OY&noredirect=1

ALKIn lung cancer, EML4-ALK is the most common 2p23 rearrangement associated with the ALK gene, which encodes anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). EML4-ALK arises from fusion between the 5′ end of the EML4 gene and the 3′ end of the ALK gene. Patients with ALK rearrangements are younger than most patients with NSCLC.⁸ EML4-ALK rearrangements are more common in adenocarcinomas of never or light smokers whose tumors lack EGFR and KRAS mutations. Histology is typically characterized by mucin production and either a solid growth pattern containing signet-ring cells (more likely in Western patients) or acinar growth pattern (more likely in Asian patients).⁹

EML4-ALK and other 2p23 fusion products lead to the production of a constitutively activated kinase, which is likely to be sensitive to ALK inhibitors that have shown efficacy against ALK–rearranged lung tumors and cell lines. For example, in phase I testing, NSCLC harboring ALK rearrangements responded to PF-02341066 (crizotinib, Pfizer) treatment.¹⁰ Phase II and III clinical trials are underway. Patients who harbor ALK rearrangements do not benefit from treatment with the EGFR-specific TKIs and should be considered for ALK-targeted clinical trials.⁸

-More info on ALK
http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/gene/ALK

Information on Alimta in regards to the ALK mutation.

2011-12-23T23:17:00.000-06:00

Journal of Thoracic Oncology:

April 2011 - Volume 6 - Issue 4 - pp 774-780

doi: 10.1097/JTO.0b013e31820cf053

Original Articles

Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Gene Rearrangements in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer are Associated with Prolonged Progression-Free Survival on Pemetrexed

Camidge, D. Ross MD, PhD; Kono, Scott A. DO; Lu, Xian PhD†; Okuyama, Sonia MD; Barón, Anna E. PhD†; Oton, Ana B. MD; Davies, Angela M. MD; Varella-Garcia, Marileila PhD‡; Franklin, Wilbur MD‡; Doebele, Robert C. MD, PhD*

Abstract

Hypothesis: To explore whether the progression-free survival (PFS) with pemetrexed differs between anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive and other major molecular subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer.

Methods: In an ALK-enriched population, patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer were screened by ALK fluorescence in situ hybridization and for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and KRAS mutations. Triple-tested, pemetrexed-treated patients (monotherapy or combination therapy) were identified and PFS with pemetrexed captured retrospectively.

Results: Eighty-nine eligible cases were identified (19 ALK fluorescence in situ hybridization positive, 12 EGFR mutant, 21 KRAS mutant, and 37 triple negatives). Eighty-three cases (93%) were adenocarcinomas, two were adenosquamous, one squamous, and three had large cell histology. None of the ALK-positive patients had received crizotinib before pemetrexed. Pemetrexed was first-line therapy in 48% (72% as platinum-based combinations). Median PFS (95% confidence interval) data were EGFR mutant (5.5 months; 1–9), KRAS mutant (7 months; 1.5–10), ALK positive (9 months; 3–12), and triple negative (4 months; 3–5). In a multivariate analysis adjusting for line of therapy, mono- versus platinum and nonplatinum combination therapy, age, sex, histology, and smoking status, the only variable associated with prolonged PFS on pemetrexed was ALK+ (hazard ratio = 0.36 [95% confidence interval: 0.17–0.73], p = 0.0051).

Conclusions: In this exploratory analysis, ALK-positive patients have a significantly longer PFS on pemetrexed compared with triple-negative patients, whereas EGFR or KRAS mutant patients do not. This information should be considered when sizing randomized studies in ALK-positive patients that involve pemetrexed. Pemetrexed should also be prioritized as a cytotoxic to explore further in patients with known ALK-positive disease.

Yes!! Mom is in at the START Center for Cancer Care!!

2011-12-17T10:16:00.000-06:00

We have an appointment monday morning at 11:30. We will be there a few hours. The website is www.stoh.com. It stands for South Texas Advanced Reseach Therapeutics center for cancer care. This is really cool and exciting! The START center is doing some really innovative research and treatment towards cancer. I can't wait to see the doctor and hear what they say. Mom is going to meet with the Director at the START center and the lead oncologist there. This is good and will give us more information about what genetic mutation is driving her cancer and how to fight it.

START CENTER FOR CANCER CARE OFFERS ROUTINE, COMPREHENSIVE GENOMIC PROFILING OF PATIENTS’ TUMORS. START is the first center in South Texas to make this sophisticated testing routinely available to patients and other oncologists. Testing will direct physicians in the selection of targeted therapies of both conventional and investigational drugs.

The START Center for Cancer Care has begun offering cancer patients routine comprehensive genomic profiling of their tumors using a unique combination of technologies -- array CGH and oncogene mutation anylisis. START is the only center in South Texas to make this molecular diagnostic testing of tumor tissue routinely available to patients, and the first to make both technologies available to any oncology patient as a clinical test. Patients do not need to be in treatment at START to have their tumors tested.

Genomic profiling represents a new tool in treating cancer and clinicians and researchers alike believe that it will enable them to better direct patients to targeted therapies of both conventional and investigational drugs. It is considered a major step in the delivery of personalized medicine. The new service will be coordinated through the new division, GenomeConsult at The START Center, and will be operated under the supervision of Shelly Gunn M.D., Ph.D. , a board certified clinical pathologist. The information her team provides will give oncologists important otherwise unavailable data concerning the specific mutations and unique pattern of changes detectable in each patient's tumor.

Info on cancer hospitals.

2011-12-16T23:26:00.001-06:00

In general, MD Anderson in Houston is considered #1, Sloan-Kettering in NYC #2, etc. based on a US News & World Report listing of cancer centers. The Mayo Clinic in MN might an especially good one around you, or Cleveland Clinic in OH.

See http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/rankings/cancer
They are probably great for 2nd opinions, though some might feel a bit like a factory mill.

But it's not fair to rely on any one list of cancer centers. It really depends what kind of treatment is needed and whether the criteria any given list used is relevant to your needs. For example, for research-in-progress on mutation-targeted treatments, MGH in Boston (Alice Shaw) and maybe U of Colorado (Ross Camige) may be research leaders, although their discoveries eventually make it through the publication process a few months later and then all oncologists could know about them.

Cancer Treatment Center of America seem to be hit or miss. Some patients love them. They certainly to cater to their patients well and have good "image marketing" (e.g., "we give you options"). But I've heard a couple of adenocarcinoma patients who CTCA gave up on this year (i.e., 'can't anything more for you') without even doing any mutation testing. Yet some other patients have gotten mutation testing via their doctor at CTCA. There's also the issue of whether your insurance will recognize them or not (often not).
Here's another list, though not using a particular criteria:
https://www.inspire.com/groups/lung-cancer-survivors/discussion/node-sampli ng#cmnt_2691706

Best hopes

-This information was given through www.inspire.com from a Lung Cancer survivor who spends a lot of time researching and helping others find answers to their questions about cancer.

Rapid targeted mutational analysis of human tumours: a clinical platform to guide personalized cancer medicine.

2011-12-16T23:10:00.000-06:00

EMBO Mol Med. 2010 May;2(5):146-58.

Rapid targeted mutational analysis of human tumours: a clinical platform to guide personalized cancer medicine.

Source

Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA. ddiassantagata@partners.org

Abstract

Targeted cancer therapy requires the rapid and accurate identification of genetic abnormalities predictive of therapeutic response. We sought to develop a high-throughput genotyping platform that would allow prospective patient selection to the best available therapies, and that could readily and inexpensively be adopted by most clinical laboratories. We developed a highly sensitive multiplexed clinical assay that performs very well with nucleic acid derived from formalin fixation and paraffin embedding (FFPE) tissue, and tests for 120 previously described mutations in 13 cancer genes. Genetic profiling of 250 primary tumours was consistent with the documented oncogene mutational spectrum and identified rare events in some cancer types. The assay is currently being used for clinical testing of tumour samples and contributing to cancer patient management. This work therefore establishes a platform for real-time targeted genotyping that can be widely adopted. We expect that efforts like this one will play an increasingly important role in cancer management.

Comment in

EMBO Mol Med. 2010 May;2(5):143-5.

PMID:: 20432502; [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

We need a complete molecular test of mom's cancer!!! I hope we can get one soon!

2011-12-14T11:49:00.000-06:00

<a href="http://www.rationaltherapeutics.com/cancer-testing/test-candidates.aspx#.TujhVw4ovf0.blogger">Cancer Treatment Rational Therapeutics Cancer Testing Test Candidates</a>

www.rationaltherapeutics.com

Today was interesting.. discouraging and encouraging.

2011-12-14T00:28:00.000-06:00

So today was rough. We met with the doctor again to see about mom getting into a clinical trial at CTRC for lung cancer and to discuss treatment options. It was discouraging in that CTRC is limited in what they can offer and the clinical trial that the doc wanted her in is totally full. The good news is that he did encourage mom to seek out other clinical trials at other facilities. If anyone is curious how it works, the FDA approves different clinical trials for different institutions. So we may find a clinical trial somewhere else that we can get her in to. We are going to meet our doc again next week to see if there is anything we have found to get her in. He did say that because that one clinical trial he wanted her in was full, he did not think we should wait too too long before starting treatment again.

In the mean time I will be researching and calling all kinds of places to see what I can find. The doc said he would be happy to look over any trials I find and he will share his opinion if he thinks its right for her. It is important to mom that she gets his input. She likes him and is comfortable with him and that is important to all of us.

In todays meeting, I had suggested all kinds of chemo treatments that I have researched and discussed with other NSCL cancer patients, but he insisted that the best option for her at this point is still Tarceva. Tarceva is more of a maintenance chemo drug by itself. It does have some really good results in cancer patients especially those who are EGFR positive. Unfortunately mom is EGFR negative so it would probably not be quite as beneficial for her as it has shown for those who are EGFR positive. One thing everyone has to remember in all this is that each cancer affects each individual person differently and in knowing that each person reacts differently with each treatment. So just because some drug works one way for most and not others doesn't necessarily mean it won't do the same for those its not expected to work as well for. There have been many cases where Tarceva has done wonders for patients who were EGFR negative. Everyone is different. Needless to say our doctor is absolutely amazed at how well mom looks, feels, and is doing. She is staying strong.

It is difficult because there is no easy solution. We all just have cherish each moment with each other, forgive and accept each other, support and love one another, and know that God is with us.

Vanessa

Made some headway today.

2011-12-12T23:57:00.000-06:00

Mom, is currently not on any treatment, but I went to the START Cancer Care center and spoke with a wonderful woman who shared the faith and hope that I have in healing my mom. She really cared that all treatment options would be discussed and that every resource be utilized. She was so sweet and I thank God for bringing her forth in our lives.

Mom has signed the release papers so that they can get her complete file and we are one step closer to getting another evaluation and second opinion.

I would like to point out that we have nothing personal against CTRC or the doctor, but I truly believe it would be irresponsible of us not to seek out a second/third opinion. Our doctor has stated that he is not completely familiar with all treatments for NSCL cancer and it is important that we are presented with all available opportunities. Also, CTRC does not offer all types of treatment. There are several new types such as Proton Therapy (available at MD Anderson) and there is also Photodynamic Therapy (available at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America) and I am not sure if CTRC offers the extensive genetic and molecular typing that the START center does. So, I don't want anyone to think that the Doctors or CTRC is not appreciated, because my family is grateful for what they have done. I just really want to be sure that my mom is getting every opportunity presented to her that is possible. This is an extremely frightening journey and it has been very difficult.

My mom has always been a role model and she has taught me to Never give up and don't take no for an answer. She taught to me to stay strong and to continue whatever journey we are on no matter what obstacles or challenges we face. We will fight this battle together and with all your help.

Thank you and God bless.

-Vanessa

Tomorrow I will ask if they did a complete genetic profile on mom.

2011-12-12T23:38:00.000-06:00

Tumors In Majority Of Patients With Advanced Lung Cancer Found To Have Genetic Mutations That Can Be Treated With Targeted Therapies

CHICAGO, IL, June 4, 2011

Mark Kris

Screening tumor samples for cancer-causing genetic mutations can help physicians tailor treatment to specifically target those mutations in patients with advanced lung cancer.
A new study detected one of ten such mutations in 54 percent of the 516 lung cancer patients tested at diagnosis. The results enabled doctors to select the most appropriate drug designed to block the identified mutation and choose other treatment options for those patients whose tumors did not have a mutation.
The results of the multicenter study are being presented today by the study’s lead author, Mark Kris, MD, Chief of the Thoracic Oncology Service at Memorial-Sloan Kettering, at the 2011 annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

“The key to treating men and women with lung cancer lies in understanding the genetic makeup of each person’s tumor,” said Dr. Kris. “Pinpointing specific mutations known to play a role in one-third of lung cancers can help maximize the chance of treatment success with personalized medicine.”

Memorial Sloan-Kettering is one of 14 institutions participating in this ongoing study, which has collaboratively tested a total of 1,000 patients who have been newly diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer that has returned after initial treatment with surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation. All 14 hospitals are members of the National Cancer Institute’s Lung Cancer Mutation Consortium (LCMC), an initiative created to identify the frequencies and characteristics of genetic mutations found specifically in lung cancer and research treatments that target them.

Pinpointing specific mutations known to play a role in one-third of lung cancers can help maximize the chance of treatment success with personalized medicine.

Mark Kris, MD, lead author and Chief of the Thoracic Oncology Service at Memorial Sloan-Kettering

The sophisticated technology needed for such extensive testing of cancer-causing, or “driver,” mutations is currently available at only a handful of centers in the world, including Memorial Sloan-Kettering, which began to screen all of its lung cancer patients for driver mutations in 2009.
Study researchers are screening lung tumors using multiplexed assays for mutations in KRAS, EGFR, HER2, BRAF, PIK3CA, AKT1, MEK1, and NRAS and are using flourescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for ALK rearrangements and MET amplifications. The most common mutations found so far have been KRAS (23 percent) and EGFR (17 percent).
Patients whose tumors are found to have the driver mutation EGFR-1, which was discovered by researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering and two Harvard institutions in 2004, are treated with the targeted drug erlotinib (Tarceva®), an FDA-approved drug that is currently the standard of care. Patients whose tumors exhibit one of the nine other mutations avoid being treated with erlotinib - which would not likely benefit them - and are offered participation in one of several LCMC-linked clinical trials investigating new medicines that target these specific genetic defects. For example, patients who have the EML-4ALK mutation may enroll in a clinical trial studying the experimental drug crizotinib, which is currently under FDA review for the treatment of lung cancers that have that mutation.
According to Dr. Kris, the next step is to expand this concept of customizing treatment based on a patient’s unique genetic tumor profile to all lung cancers and all stages of lung cancer.

“In fact, this process can work for any cancer and our assay panel already includes important mutations in colorectal cancer (KRAS) and melanoma (BRAF),” noted Dr. Kris. “As additional mutations are discovered by efforts like The Cancer Genome Atlas, these mutations can be quickly included in the routine molecular analyses. At the same time, our investigators will continue researching new therapies that target these genetic abnormalities, providing hope for the 220,000 people diagnosed with lung cancer each year.”

The study was funded by a grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
Members of the LCMC include Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston; Partners Health Cancer Center, Boston; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville; The Sydney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles; University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas; H. Lee Moffit Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa; Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston; National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Vanderbilt University, Nashville; University of Colorado Cancer Center Denver, Aurora; and University of Colorado Denver, Aurora.

IP6 and Inositol- Information from the American Cancer Society website

2011-12-11T22:49:00.000-06:00

Inositol Hexaphosphate

Other common name(s): IP6, IP-6, InsP-6, inositol, phytic acid, phytate, myo-inositol hexaphosphate
Scientific/medical name(s): inositol-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakisphosphate

Description

Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is a chemical found in beans, brown rice, corn, sesame seeds, wheat bran, and other high-fiber foods. It is converted into compounds in the body that are used by cells to relay outside messages to the cell nucleus. IP6 also aids the body in its use, or metabolism, of calcium and other minerals.
IP-6 is a very specific form of inositol, and there are several other forms of it found in the human body. It is different, for instance, from myo-inositol, which is another form being studied because of its possible role in illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

Overview

Animal and lab research has found that IP6 may be effective in lowering tumor incidence and slowing tumor growth. However, studies of IP6 have not yet been done in people. Clinical trials are needed to find out how it might work in preventing or treating cancer in humans.

How is it promoted for use?

Proponents call IP6 a "natural cancer fighter" and claim it slows or reverses the growth of various forms of cancer, including breast, colon, and prostate cancers. It is thought to be an antioxidant, a compound that blocks the action of free radicals, activated oxygen molecules that can damage cells. It may help to prevent the abnormal signals that tell a cancer cell to keep growing from reaching the cell's nucleus. Some research shows IP6 slows abnormal cell division and may sometimes transform tumor cells into normal cells. Supporters also claim it effectively prevents kidney stones, high cholesterol, heart disease, and liver disease.
IP6 is one form of inositol. Inositol is a kind of sugar formed by 6 carbon atoms, 6 oxygen atoms, and 12 hydrogen atoms. This combination of atoms can also form glucose, but the atoms are arranged differently in these 2 sugars. There are actually several forms of inositol, each with subtle differences in the arrangement of atoms, with myo-inositol being the most common form. IP6 is formed by substituting phosphate groups (each with a phosphorous and three oxygens) for each of the 6 hydroxyl (an oxygen and hydrogen) groups of inositol. Thus, IP6 is related, yet chemically distinct, from myo-inositol, which is being studied for its possible role in illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

What does it involve?

Many high-fiber food sources contain IP6, and it is also available in pill form as a dietary supplement combining inositol and IP6. Scientists do not know enough about the chemical to recommend a standard supplement dose. It is not known whether taking a supplement provides the same effect as getting IP6 from food sources.

What is the history behind it?

The existence of IP6 has been known for several decades. Interest in its potential anti-cancer properties emerged in the mid-1980s when Abulkalam Shamsuddin, MD, PhD, a pathologist at the University of Maryland, began to conduct research studies on inositol in the lab. He published a book on the subject in 1998. He and other researchers continue to study the effects of IP6.

What is the evidence?

All of the evidence regarding the anticancer effects of IP6 has come from laboratory cell cultures and animal studies. Laboratory studies of cell cultures have shown that IP6 may help put cancer cells on a path toward normal cell death and may help keep them from spreading to other parts of the body. It may also affect the growth of blood vessels that supply the tumor and the immune system in general. These studies have shown IP6 may have activity against cancer of the pancreas, breast, prostate, colon, and other types of cancer. Results of some studies in cells have also suggested that IP6 may help certain chemotherapy or hormone therapy drugs work better.
Studies in animals have found that supplementing the animals' diets with IP6 may help prevent tumors from forming in the prostate, lung, colon, skin, and other areas. While animal and laboratory studies may show a certain compound holds promise as a helpful treatment, further studies are needed to find out if the results apply to humans. One preliminary human study suggested that IP6 may cause regression of precancerous lung changes in smokers. IP6 has not yet been studied in humans as a treatment for cancer.
Inositol hexaphosphate and similar chemicals have also been studied for treating polycystic ovary syndrome, panic disorders, autism, obsessive-compulsive disorders, Alzheimer disease, post-traumatic stress disorders, and depression. Researchers have reached no firm conclusions about its impact on these conditions.

Are there any possible problems or complications?

This product is sold as a dietary supplement in the United States. Unlike drugs (which must be tested before being allowed to be sold), the companies that make supplements are not required to prove to the Food and Drug Administration that their supplements are safe or effective, as long as they don't claim the supplements can prevent, treat, or cure any specific disease.
Some such products may not contain the amount of the herb or substance that is written on the label, and some may include other substances (contaminants). Actual amounts per dose may vary between brands or even between different batches of the same brand.
Most such supplements have not been tested to find out if they interact with medicines, foods, or other herbs and supplements. Even though some reports of interactions and harmful effects may be published, full studies of interactions and effects are not often available. Because of these limitations, any information on ill effects and interactions below should be considered incomplete.
When taken in moderate amounts, IP6 appears to be safe. However, no studies have been done to determine its safety. Some experts advise those who wish to increase their intake of IP6 to add beans, whole grains, and other foods rich in IP-6 to their diets before resorting to supplements.
Inositol hexaphosphate may reduce the body's ability to absorb some minerals such as zinc, calcium, and iron. This concern has been raised mainly in regard infants. IP-6 can also reduce the amounts absorbed from mineral supplements. No studies have tested the safety of IP6 in women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. Relying on this treatment alone and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer, may have serious health consequences.

Mom had a good weekend!

2011-12-11T22:44:00.000-06:00

Even though tuesday was a very difficult day for us, mom has continued her focus on being positive and staying strong. She has been working and keeping life as normal as possible. She has agreed to drink Kombucha tea again which makes me really happy. Its an awesome tea that just really helps boost the immune system and full is of good enzymes and probiotics. Anyway, its just good for her and its healthy. She also has agreed to take the IP6 and Inositol supplements which are also awesome in boosting the immune system. Both of these things are something that in my research and in communicating with other Non small cell lung cancer stage 4 survivors say they take are going on years of survival and some are now No Evidence of Disease (NED). I don't if these will really help and there is no such thing as a miracle cure, but the way I look at it is that its not gonna hurt and in researching it, it really is just good for the immune system. The immune system is very important to monitor in fighting cancer. So, I'm just glad she's taking it anyway. I will post some info on these after.

Anyway, I spent the night on friday with mom and I made spaghetti for dinner. We watched NCIS and talked about seeing another doctor to get another opinion. I showed her some of the discussion forums that I have joined where other people around the world who are fighting this disease come together and talk about what they are going through and how we can all help each other. There are many people that feel like we do when our doctors just aren't trying enough or don't know enough specifically to want to try. They see that you are stage 4 and don't really see a point in trying. Now that I've said that, other people on these forums come through saying that they were in that same position and decided to go get another opinion (even though their doctors were supposed to be the best in their area as well). Anyway, they got another opinion and are doing extremely well today. They found new doctors who didn't stick with standard protocol and did what they thought would be right for those individual people. I am just hoping that we find another doctor who will fight as hard as my mom is. She really is an inspiration!!

So friday night was good and on saturday we got up and went for a drive to the outlet mall. It was packed with christmas shoppers. Mom and I went to only a couple stores- Yankee candle, bath and bodyworks, and neiman marcus last call. We both got a candle, a hand soap, and sweater (and all at extremely great discount savings plus we had gift cards! Cool). We weren't there too long, maybe an hour and a half and then headed back home in the rain and almost ran out of gas too! After that, we went to mom's good friend and hair dresser Michael and he trimmed her bangs a little and gave her a big hug and kiss. It was nice and I think mom had a good day. We went back to the house had enchiladas for dinner and then mom needed to rest.

This morning, John (my older brother), Darinka (his wife), and I met at the house to get a christmas tree for mom. We picked out a really nice noble fir maybe 8-9feet and we all decorated it together. It was fun and it was really great being together. We had a good weekend.

This week is going to be interesting. Mom will continue to work and I will continue to research treatment options. We are going to discuss options with her doctor on tuesday. He is supposed to be giving us several options and inform us about several clinical trials. Regardless, I am going to be prepared and have lots of questions. I am also hoping to hear from MD Anderson and I will go to the START center and seek out an another evaluation. I just want to be thorough and be sure that all bases are covered.

Keep praying and continue your faith!! God bless.

-Vanessa

Option Tarceva

2011-12-07T23:57:00.000-06:00

Possible Benefits of Tarceva

Tarceva may offer convenience

You take the pill by mouth once a day on an empty stomach.
In addition to understanding the benefits of Tarceva, it is also important to know the side effects and safety information about Tarceva. This information appears below.
*Median is the midpoint of a range of numbers. This means that half the patients had a shorter overall survival time and half had a longer overall survival time.
Indications and Usage for Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Tarceva is prescribed for patients with advanced-stage Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) whose cancer has not spread or grown after initial treatment with certain types of chemotherapy. (Maintenance treatment)
Tarceva is prescribed for patients with advanced-stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) whose cancer has spread or grown after receiving at least 1 chemotherapy regimen. (2^nd/3^rd-line treatment)
Tarceva is not meant to be used at the same time as certain types of chemotherapy for NSCLC.

Important Safety Information

Possible effects on the lungs

There have been reports of serious adverse events involving the lungs in a small number of patients taking Tarceva. These events have included death in some patients. The medical name for these types of events is interstitial (in-tur-STISH-ul) lung disease-like events (or ILD-like events).

Possible effects on the kidneys and liver

Liver and/or kidney problems (including deaths) have been reported in some patients taking Tarceva. Let your healthcare provider (HCP) know if you have a history of liver or kidney disease.

Possible effects on the stomach and intestines

Some patients taking Tarceva have developed a hole in the lining of their stomach or intestines (including deaths). It may happen more in patients who are taking certain other medicines or who have had certain stomach or intestinal diseases.

Possible effects on the skin

Some patients taking Tarceva have developed serious skin conditions. Some patients have died from these conditions.

Possible effects on the eye

Some patients taking Tarceva have developed eye irritation and damage to the cornea. The cornea is the clear part of the eyeball that covers the colored part of the eye and the pupil. Other eye problems such as abnormal eyelash growth, dry eyes, or changes in eyesight have also been reported. Patients should tell their HCP about eye problems that get worse, including eye pain.

When to call your HCP

Call your HCP right away if you have these signs or symptoms:

New or worsening skin rash
Serious or ongoing diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, or vomiting
New or worsening shortness of breath or cough
Eye irritation

Before you start taking Tarceva

Some patients taking Tarceva have experienced difficulty with blood clotting, and bleeding events, including gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients taking blood thinners (Coumadin^®, warfarin or other coumarin-derivatives) should be monitored regularly.

Taking other medicines and herbal supplements with Tarceva

Certain medicines and herbal supplements can affect how Tarceva works in the body. It is important that you tell your HCP about all of the medicines and herbal supplements you are taking. DO NOT start taking any new medicines or herbal supplements before talking with your HCP. Tarceva may also affect other medications you are taking.
In addition, grapefruit and grapefruit juice have an effect on how Tarceva works. DO NOT eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while on treatment with Tarceva, except under the care of your HCP.
.

Common side effects of Tarceva

The most common side effects in patients who took Tarceva were generally mild to moderate rash and diarrhea. You may also have other changes in your skin.
The rash from Tarceva therapy may appear on your upper body or face. Typically rash occurs within 8 days of starting treatment, but it may occur any time during treatment with Tarceva.
The rash is not an allergic reaction. It may look like acne or dry skin. It is not acne. Talk to your HCP if a rash occurs.
Typically, diarrhea may develop within 12 days of starting Tarceva.
Hair and nail changes have been seen with Tarceva.

Not so good

2011-12-07T23:52:00.000-06:00

Unfortunately, mom's scan results from the crizotinib showed that the medicine did not work at all. It had zero effect on the cancer and the tumors have grown 2-3 times the size. We are all so upset from this news because we all believed that this miracle drug would work. We have another appointment on tuesday to discuss new treatment options and clinical trials. Whatever we decide is going to be labeled as third line treatment. The clinical trials we have so far been told of are stage 1 clinical trials which means that they are completely new and have not been tried yet. If she decides to do a clinical trial the next one doesn't start for 5 weeks. This means she cannot be on any other treatment during that waiting "washout" period. Even then, I don't know if she will get in the trial because she is on a waiting list and then when the time comes they run tests to see if she is even eligible.

The other choice is to just start taking either Tarceva or Taxol. I will post info about both.

Mom, is extremely positive and so incredibly strong. We must all continue to pray because God can heal her. I believe it is his will and that this is another bump in the road.

Psalm 41:3
The LORD sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness.

Let us pray:

Dear Lord of Mercy and Father of Comfort,

You are the One I turn to for help in moments of weakness and times of need. I ask you to be with your servant, Cindy Hudson, in this illness. Psalm 107:20 says that you send out your Word and heal. So then, please send your healing Word to your servant, Cindy Hudson. In the name of Jesus, drive out all infirmity and sickness from her body.
Dear Lord, I ask you to turn this weakness into strength, suffering into compassion, sorrow into joy, and pain into comfort for others. May your servant trust in your goodness and hope in your faithfulness, even in the middle of this suffering. Let her be filled with patience and joy in your presence as she waits for your healing touch.
Please restore your servant, Cindy Hudson, to full health, dear Father. Remove all fear and doubt from her heart by the power of your Holy Spirit, and may you, Lord, be glorified through her life.
As you heal and renew your servant, Lord, may she bless and praise you.
All of this I pray in the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen.

Cindy had a girls weekend! Very cool!

2011-11-20T22:14:00.002-06:00

So mom has been taking the Crizotinib targeted therapy drug for about 2 weeks and she was done with her last (round 6) intravenous chemo therapy of Avastin, Alimta, and Carboplatin combination about a month ago now. She was feeling pretty bad after round 6, but it wasn't as bad as what I hear from other survivors who had very difficult chemo treatments. She still has her hair, she has back pain, her blood pressure has elevated, and she has been really tired and worn out. All this aside, she has been looking like she feels better and she does have a lot more energy. We will get the results of how the targeted therapy drug crizotinib is doing in about 2 and half weeks. Just keep praying that it is working! She is strong and continues the good fight!!!

Okay, so now that I've written all that I can tell you all that mom had a wonderful weekend with girlfriends. They took her out for some window shopping, people watching, awesome lunch and dinner, and even took in a show!! Mom said she felt like she had walked 10 miles and it shows that she is very happy to have had that energy! She had a great weekend and is in a really good mood. She is rather tired today though. So I made her some chicken pot pie. It was good. I am just really glad that she had such a great time with her friends!!!

Next week she will be leaving to visit Michael, Annie, and her grandchildren. I am soooo happy that she has this opportunity to go visit. It has been really difficult for her emotionally not see or be around her youngest son, his wife and grandchildren. The boys, William and Charlie are 3 and almost 5, are such a joy and she loves doting on them. I am just so happy that she will be spending Thanksgiving with them! We all have so much to be thankful for and we thank all of you for your continued support!
God Bless!

More info on the Avastin chemo drug-This is the news release from the FDA

2011-11-20T21:31:00.000-06:00

The FDA results from the clinical trials are a little different from the company website info, but here is the press release info from the FDA to shed a little more light on the chemo drug Avastin. Remember that they removed the drug for its complications in regards to breast cancer. My mom has Non Small Cell Lung cancer (NSCL), and this drug is still being used in regards to that. She has finished the 6 rounds of chemo and is now using a different type of chemo. It is pill form called crizotinib and it is used for targeted therapy. Mom had positive results from the genetic marker testing. Info is posted on this blog. She did have some of the side effects from the Avastin that are listed in this press release during the chemo and we will have to wait and see how these symptoms will change after being done with the 6 rounds of chemo and the change to this new targeted therapy drug.

-Vanessa

FDA Commissioner announces Avastin decision
Drug not shown to be safe and effective in breast cancer patients

FDA Commissioner Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., said today she is revoking the agency’s approval of the breast cancer indication for Avastin (bevacizumab) after concluding that the drug has not been shown to be safe and effective for that use.

Avastin will still remain on the market as an approved treatment for certain types of colon, lung, kidney and brain cancer (glioblastoma multiforme).

“This was a difficult decision. FDA recognizes how hard it is for patients and their families to cope with metastatic breast cancer and how great a need there is for more effective treatments. But patients must have confidence that the drugs they take are both safe and effective for their intended use,” Dr. Hamburg said. “After reviewing the available studies it is clear that women who take Avastin for metastatic breast cancer risk potentially life-threatening side effects without proof that the use of Avastin will provide a benefit, in terms of delay in tumor growth, that would justify those risks. Nor is there evidence that use of Avastin will either help them live longer or improve their quality of life.”

Avastin’s risks include severe high blood pressure; bleeding and hemorrhaging; heart attack or heart failure; and the development of perforations in different parts of the body such as the nose, stomach, and intestines.

Today’s decision, outlined in Dr Hamburg’s 69-page opinion, involves Avastin used in combination with the cancer drug paclitaxel for those patients who have not been treated with chemotherapy for their form of metastatic breast cancer known as HER2 negative. This indication must now be removed from Avastin’s product labeling.

Dr. Hamburg’s decision is based on an extensive record, which includes thousands of pages submitted to a public docket, data from several clinical trials and the record from a two-day hearing held in June, 2011.

Avastin was approved for metastatic breast cancer in February 2008 under the FDA’s accelerated approval program, which allows a drug to be approved based on data that are not sufficiently complete to permit full approval. The accelerated approval program provides earlier patient access to promising new drugs to treat serious or life-threatening conditions while confirmatory clinical trials are conducted. If the clinical trials do not justify the continued approval of the drug or a specific drug indication, the agency may revoke its approval. In this case, the accelerated approval was based on promising results from one study that suggested that the drug could provide a meaningful increase in the amount of time from when treatment is started until the tumor grows or the death of the patient.

After the accelerated approval of Avastin for breast cancer, the drug’s sponsor, Genentech, completed two additional clinical trials and submitted the data from those studies to the FDA. These data showed only a small effect on tumor growth without evidence that patients lived any longer or had a better quality of life compared to taking standard chemotherapy alone – not enough to outweigh the risk of taking the drug.

FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, which is responsible for the approval of this drug, ultimately concluded that the results of these additional studies did not justify continued approval and notified Genentech it was proposing to withdraw approval of the indication.

Genentech did not agree with the Center’s evaluation of the data and, following the procedures set out in FDA regulations, requested a hearing on the Center’s withdrawal proposal, with a decision to be made by the Commissioner. That two-day hearing, which took place June 28-29, 2011, included recommendations from the FDA's Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC), voting 6-0 in favor of withdrawing approval of Avastin’s breast cancer indication. After the hearing, the public docket remained open until Aug. 4, 2011. (In an earlier meeting of the ODAC, that committee had voted 12-1 in favor of the removal of the breast cancer indication from the Avastin label).

“FDA is committed to working with sponsors to bring promising cancer drugs to market as quickly as possible using tools like accelerated approval,” Dr. Hamburg said. “I encourage Genentech to consider additional studies to identify if there are select subgroups of women suffering from breast cancer who might benefit from this drug.”

For more information:

Avastin Decision¹

FY2011 Innovative Drug Approvals²

RSS Feed for FDA News Releases³ [what is RSS?⁴]

News about Avastin- Mom took the Avastin for the 6 rounds of chemo

2011-11-20T20:33:00.000-06:00

The FDA has recalled Avastin in its use for metastatic breast cancer. It is still used for non small cell lung cancer in combination with carboplatin. It looks like the biggest worry with Avastin, in its use on nscl cancer, is the low white cell count. I'm glad that mom made it through the chemo and she seems to be doing well on the crizontinib. We won't know until next month when we get more scans done and see whats going on inside. She still has pain in her back, but she is looking great and looks like she is feeling better. She still gets worn out, but she recovers fast.

Friday, Nov 18, 2011

FDA Commissioner Announces Final Decision on Avastin for Metastatic Breast Cancer

South San Francisco, Calif. -- November 18, 2011 --

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner revokes approval of Avastin for treatment of metastatic breast cancer (mBC) in the United States
This action concludes the FDA's review of Avastin's use for mBC
This decision does not impact Avastin's approved uses for other cancer types in the United States or other countries
This decision also does not impact the approval of Avastin for mBC in more than 80 other countries
Roche will start a new trial of Avastin plus paclitaxel in mBC

Genentech, a member of the Roche Group (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY), announced today that the FDA Commissioner is revoking the approval of Avastin® (bevacizumab) for the treatment of mBC in the United States. "We are disappointed with the outcome. We remain committed to the many women with this incurable disease and will continue to provide help through our patient support programs to those who may be facing obstacles to receiving their treatment in the United States," said Hal Barron, M.D., chief medical officer and head, Global Product Development. "Despite today's action, we will start a new Phase III study of Avastin in combination with paclitaxel in previously untreated metastatic breast cancer and will evaluate a potential biomarker that may help identify which people might derive a more substantial benefit from Avastin."
Information for Doctors and Patients

Genentech will issue a letter to healthcare providers and will also provide them with a letter to distribute to their patients. Both letters will be made available on Genentech's website.
Patients with questions or concerns about insurance coverage or doctors with questions about reimbursement can call Genentech's Access Solutions Group at (866) 4 ACCESS, our team of specialists may be able to help.
Doctors with questions about Avastin can call Genentech's Medical Communications group at (800) 821-8590.
The FDA's action does not impact ongoing trials with Avastin in breast cancer. For more information, please call Genentech's Trial Information Support Line at (888) 662-6728 or visit clinicaltrials.gov.

About Avastin
Avastin is a prescription-only medicine that is a solution for intravenous infusion. It is a biologic antibody designed to specifically bind to a protein called VEGF that plays an important role throughout the lifecycle of the tumor to develop and maintain blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. Avastin is designed to interfere with the tumor blood supply by directly binding to the VEGF protein to prevent interactions with receptors on blood vessel cells. The tumor blood supply is thought to be critical to a tumor's ability to grow and spread in the body (metastasize). For more information about angiogenesis, visit http://www.gene.com.
Avastin is approved for first- and second-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer in combination with intravenous 5-FU-based chemotherapy, first-line treatment of unresectable, locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic, non-squamous, non-small cell lung cancer in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel, and metastatic renal cell carcinoma in combination with interferon alfa.
BOXED WARNINGS and Additional Important Safety Information
People receiving Avastin may experience side effects. In clinical trials, some people treated with Avastin experienced serious and sometimes fatal side effects, including:
Gastrointestinal (GI) perforation: Treatment with Avastin can result in the development of a serious side effect called GI perforation, which is the development of a hole in the stomach, small intestine, or large intestine. In clinical trials, this event occurred in more people who received Avastin than in the comparison group (2.4 percent to 0.3 percent). In some cases, GI perforation resulted in fatality. Avastin therapy should be permanently stopped if GI perforation occurs.
Surgery and wound healing problems: Treatment with Avastin can lead to slow or incomplete wound healing (for example, when a surgical incision has trouble healing or staying closed). In some cases, this event resulted in fatality. Surgery and wound healing problems occurred more often in people who received Avastin than in the comparison group. In a controlled clinical trial, in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who had surgery during the course of treatment, the incidence of wound healing complications, including serious and fatal complications, was 15 percent for patients who received Avastin and four percent for patients who did not receive Avastin.
Avastin therapy should not be started for at least 28 days after surgery and until the surgical wound is fully healed. The length of time between stopping Avastin and having voluntary surgery without the risk of wound healing problems following surgery has not been determined. Treatment with Avastin should be stopped at least 28 days before voluntary surgery and in people with wound healing problems following surgery that require medical treatment. Treatment with Avastin should be stopped in patients with slow or incomplete wound healing.
Severe bleeding: Treatment with Avastin can result in serious or fatal bleeding, including coughing up blood, bleeding in the stomach, vomiting of blood, bleeding in the brain, nosebleeds and vaginal bleeding. These events occurred up to five times more often in people who received Avastin compared to patients who received only chemotherapy. Across cancer types, 1.2 percent to 4.6 percent of people who received Avastin experienced severe to fatal bleeding. People who have recently coughed up blood (greater than or equal to a half teaspoon of red blood) or have serious bleeding should not receive Avastin. Treatment with Avastin should be permanently stopped if serious bleeding occurs.
In clinical trials for different cancer types, there were additional serious and sometimes fatal side effects that occurred in more people who received Avastin than in those in the comparison group. The formation of an abnormal passage from parts of the body to another part (non-GI fistula formation) was seen in 0.3 percent or less of people. Severe to life-threatening stroke or heart problems were seen in 2.4 percent of people. Too much protein in the urine that led to kidney problems was seen in less than one percent of people. Additional serious side effects that occurred in more people who received Avastin than those in the comparison group included severe to life-threatening high blood pressure, which was seen in five percent to 18 percent of people, and nervous system and vision disturbances (reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome), which was seen in less than 0.1 percent of people. Infusion reactions with the first dose of Avastin were uncommon and occurred in less than three percent of people, and severe reactions occurred in 0.2 percent of people. Avastin could cause a woman?s ovaries to stop working and may impair her ability to have children.
Common side effects that occurred in more than 10 percent of people who received Avastin for different cancer types, and at least twice the rate of the comparison group, were nosebleeds, headache, high blood pressure, inflammation of the nose, too much protein in the urine, taste change, dry skin, rectal bleeding, tear production disorder, back pain, and inflammation of the skin (exfoliative dermatitis). Across all trials, treatment with Avastin was permanently stopped in 8.4 percent to 21 percent of people because of side effects.
Patients who are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant should talk with their doctor about the potential risk of loss of the pregnancy or the potential risk of Avastin to the fetus during and following Avastin therapy, and the need to continue an effective birth control method for at least six months following the last dose of Avastin.
Women should be advised to discontinue nursing or discontinue treatment with Avastin, taking into account the importance of Avastin to the mother.
First-line Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
In the first-line metastatic colorectal cancer trial, the most common severe to life-threatening side effects that increased by two percent or more in people who received Avastin plus IFL chemotherapy vs. IFL alone were weakness (10 percent vs. 7 percent), abdominal pain (8 percent vs. 5 percent), pain (8 percent vs. 5 percent), high blood pressure (12 percent vs. 2 percent), blood clots in the veins of the body (9 percent vs. 5 percent), blood clots inside the abdomen (3 percent vs. 1 percent), a brief loss of consciousness (3 percent vs. 1 percent), diarrhea (34 percent vs. 25 percent), constipation (4 percent vs. 2 percent), reduced white blood cell counts (37 percent vs. 31 percent), and reduced white blood cell counts that may increase the chance of infection (21 percent vs. 14 percent).
Second-line Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
In the second-line metastatic colorectal cancer trial, the most common severe to life-threatening and fatal side effects that increased by two percent or more in people who received Avastin plus FOLFOX4 chemotherapy vs. FOLFOX4 alone were diarrhea (18 percent vs. 13 percent), nausea (12 percent vs. 5 percent), vomiting (11 percent vs. 4 percent), dehydration (10 percent vs. 5 percent), blockage of the bowel (4 percent vs. 1 percent), numbness and tingling in fingers and toes (17 percent vs. 9 percent), nervous system disturbances (5 percent vs. 3 percent), tiredness (19 percent vs. 13 percent), abdominal pain (8 percent vs. 5 percent), headache (3 percent vs. 0 percent), high blood pressure (9 percent vs. 2 percent), and severe bleeding (5 percent vs. 1 percent).
First-line Advanced Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
In the non-small cell lung cancer trial, the most common life-threatening to fatal side effects that increased by two percent or more in people who received Avastin vs. those in the comparison group were reduced white blood cell counts (27 percent vs. 17 percent), tiredness (16 percent vs. 13 percent), high blood pressure (8 percent vs. 0.7 percent), infection without reduced white blood cell counts (7 percent vs. 3 percent), blood clots in the veins of the body (5 percent vs. 3 percent), fever with reduced white blood cell counts (5 percent vs. 2 percent), inflammation of the lungs (5 percent vs. 3 percent), infection with severe or life-threatening reduced white blood cell counts (4 percent vs. 2 percent), low sodium levels in the blood that could lead to seizure or coma (4 percent vs. 1 percent), headache (3 percent vs. 1 percent), and too much protein in the urine (3 percent vs. 0 percent).
Metastatic Kidney Cancer
In the metastatic kidney cancer trial, the most common severe to fatal side effects that increased by two percent or more in people who received Avastin vs. those in the comparison group included tiredness (13 percent vs. 8 percent), weakness (10 percent vs. 7 percent), too much protein in the urine (7 percent vs. 0 percent), high blood pressure (6 percent vs. 1 percent), and severe bleeding (3 percent vs. 0.3 percent). For full Prescribing Information and Boxed WARNINGS on Avastin please visit http://www.avastin.com.
About Genentech
Founded more than 30 years ago, Genentech is a leading biotechnology company that discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes medicines to treat patients with serious or life-threatening medical conditions. The company, a member of the Roche Group, has headquarters in South San Francisco, California. For additional information about the company, please visit http://www.gene.com.

###

FYI on clinical studies and survival rate. Believe she is healing!

2011-11-07T22:55:00.000-06:00

The Lancet Oncology, Volume 12, Issue 11, Pages 1004 - 1012, October 2011

doi:10.1016/S1470-2045(11)70232-7 Cite or Link Using DOI

Published Online: 19 September 2011

Effect of crizotinib on overall survival in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer harbouring ALK gene rearrangement: a retrospective analysis

Dr Alice T Shaw MD a , Beow Y Yeap ScD a, Benjamin J Solomon MD b, Gregory J Riely MD c, Justin Gainor MD a, Jeffrey A Engelman MD a, Geoffrey I Shapiro MD d, Daniel B Costa MD e, Sai-Hong I Ou MD f, Mohit Butaney BS d, Prof Ravi Salgia MD g, Robert G Maki MD c, Prof Marileila Varella-Garcia PhD h, Robert C Doebele MD h, Prof Yung-Jue Bang MD i, Kimary Kulig PhD j, Paulina Selaru MSPH j, Yiyun Tang PhD j, Keith D Wilner PhD j, Eunice L Kwak MD a, Jeffrey W Clark MD a, A John Iafrate MD k, D Ross Camidge MD h

Summary

Background

ALK gene rearrangement defines a new molecular subtype of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In a recent phase 1 clinical trial, the ALK tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI) crizotinib showed marked antitumour activity in patients with advanced, ALK-positive NSCLC. To assess whether crizotinib affects overall survival in these patients, we did a retrospective study comparing survival outcomes in crizotinib-treated patients in the trial and crizotinib-naive controls screened during the same time period.

Methods

We examined overall survival in patients with advanced, ALK-positive NSCLC who enrolled in the phase 1 clinical trial of crizotinib, focusing on the cohort of 82 patients who had enrolled through Feb 10, 2010. For comparators, we identified 36 ALK-positive patients from trial sites who were not given crizotinib (ALK-positive controls), 67 patients without ALK rearrangement but positive for EGFR mutation, and 253 wild-type patients lacking either ALK rearrangement or EGFR mutation. To assess differences in overall survival, we assessed subsets of clinically comparable ALK-positive and ALK-negative patients.

Findings

Among 82 ALK-positive patients who were given crizotinib, median overall survival from initiation of crizotinib has not been reached (95% CI 17 months to not reached); 1-year overall survival was 74% (95% CI 63—82), and 2-year overall survival was 54% (40—66). Overall survival did not differ based on age, sex, smoking history, or ethnic origin. Survival in 30 ALK-positive patients who were given crizotinib in the second-line or third-line setting was significantly longer than in 23 ALK-positive controls given any second-line therapy (median overall survival not reached [95% CI 14 months to not reached] vs 6 months [4—17], 1-year overall survival 70% [95% CI 50—83] vs 44% [23—64], and 2-year overall survival 55% [33—72] vs 12% [2—30]; hazard ratio 0·36, 95% CI 0·17—0·75; p=0·004). Survival in 56 crizotinib-treated, ALK-positive patients was similar to that in 63 ALK-negative, EGFR-positive patients given EGFR TKI therapy (median overall survival not reached [95% CI 17 months to not reached] vs 24 months [15—34], 1-year overall survival 71% [95% CI 58—81] vs 74% [61—83], and 2-year overall survival 57% [40—71] vs 52% [38—65]; p=0·786), whereas survival in 36 crizotinib-naive, ALK-positive controls was similar to that in 253 wild-type controls (median overall survival 20 months [95% CI 13—26] vs 15 months [13—17]; p=0·244).

Interpretation

In patients with advanced, ALK-positive NSCLC, crizotinib therapy is associated with improved survival compared with that of crizotinib-naive controls. ALK rearrangement is not a favourable prognostic factor in advanced NSCLC.

Funding

Pfizer Inc, V Foundation for Cancer Research.

Crizotinib Approval For Lung Cancer Shows Our Miracles Aren't Getting Less Expensive

2011-11-07T22:41:00.000-06:00

<a href="http://www.cancer.org/AboutUs/DrLensBlog/post/2011/08/30/Crizotinib-Approval-For-Lung-Cancer-Shows-Our-Miracles-Arent-Getting-Less-Expensive.aspx#.TriwwJFLLMs.blogger">Crizotinib Approval For Lung Cancer Shows Our Miracles Aren't Getting Less Expensive</a>Interesting article. The expense is overwhelming. Its crazy to see that mom's new targeted drug therapy for the pills alone costs $115,000 a year. We will do everything we can to continue to get her the best treatment and heal her. She will become No Evidence of Disease!!! It is God's will. On that note, I think we will need to organize a fundraiser for next year in the spring time while the weather is nice. One comment at the bottom of this article (posted before) tells of how the pills worked great for one's mom who was in the clinical trials. This is great news!
-Vanessa

An excerpt from someone who's mother has taken crizotinib

2011-11-07T22:30:00.000-06:00

"But when my mother was on Crizotinib, she had ZERO side effects. Yes, ZERO. Maybe during the first week she had some nausea/vomiting which can be taken care often easily by drugs or by eating a little food with crizotinib, but after first week it was gone. She had no side effects. I'd imagine some people had other side effects, but none even anywhere close to chemo. Could you name a single chemo drug for which there are people who claim zero side effects?

Not to mention that this drug can lead to better drugs in future.?

kitty

Mom's update. No results just yet on new drug. Give it some time and keep praying.

2011-11-07T22:19:00.000-06:00

Well, mom has started the new drug and has been on it for about a week. She is not noticing improvement yet, but keep praying. She will get better!!! Before she started taking the medicine and after round 6 of chemo, she has been suffering from some pretty severe pain in the upper lung area of her back (behind the scapula). The pain is still the same so far. She is still working as much as she can and she gets wiped out by the end of the day. She is suffering from nausea (actually threw up today), but that is a big side effect of the new drug too. Hopefully she will start feeling better soon. Keep her in your prayers and thank you all.

More information on mom's new drug information. The previous posts are more detailed on the drug she is now taking. Please read them all to learn what she is going through.

New Lung Cancer Pill Highlights Improved Way of Treating Patients

By ENJOLI FRANCIS and RICHARD BESSER

Aug. 30, 2011 —

go.com

A new drug to combat a certain type of lung cancer is being hailed today as an "amazing development" by medical experts.

The drug crizotinib (Xalkori), manufactured by Pfizer and approved last week by the Food and Drug Administration, is intended for a small number of patients.

The twice-daily capsules are meant for patients with non-small cell lung cancer who have a unique gene known as an abnormal anaplastic lymphoma kinase(ALK). An ALK gene causes cancer growth and development.

Pfizer held a panel today to discuss the implications of the new drug.

"What we've seen from studies to date is that this pill does have significant activity," said Dr. Alice Shaw, a thoracic oncologist at Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, who took part in crizotinib studies. "For about 60 percent of patients, they will have a significant shrinkage in their tumors and what the preliminary studies have also shown is that the median or average duration of response is on the order of 10 months."

Lung Cancer Drug Blocks Proteins

Crizotinib works by blocking the proteins produced by the ALK gene. The FDA also approved a diagnostic test by Abbott Laboratories that screens for the gene. Patients found to have the gene would be able to be prescribed the pill, although chemotherapy and radiation therapies would remain options.

The most common side effects, according to Medpage Today, reported in patients taking crizotinib were vision disorders, nausea and edema.

About 187,000, or 85 percent of the 220,000 lung cancer cases diagnosed yearly, are non-small cell lung cancer. Of those cases, less than 7 percent have the ALK gene.

Dr. David Carbone, a lung cancer specialist at Vanderbilt University, one of the sites that tested the drug, told The Associated Press that for those patients, crizotinib made a huge difference. "It's pretty exciting," he said.

"For many patients, this drug has been a lifesaver," Massachusetts General's Shaw told ABC News. "For many patients, they experienced a very immediate and significant relief in their symptoms, sometimes within the first week."

Dr. Roy S. Herbst, chief of medical oncology at Yale Cancer Center, said that crizotinib's FDA approval was a "pivotal milestone" in lung cancer treatment.

"It's another example of how we are using molecular medicine to effectively treat a subset of cancer patients," Herbst told ABC News via email.

More on Crizotinib

2011-10-27T14:54:00.004-05:00

Pfizer Inc.'s just-approved drug Xalkori, the first new medicine in more than six years for deadly lung cancer, proves the value of precisely targeting rare diseases linked to gene variants, cancer specialists and Pfizer executives said Tuesday.
The drug was approved Friday in the U.S. along with a companion diagnostic test for just a small subset of lung cancer patients. It epitomizes drugmakers' new strategy of developing very expensive but effective medicines for relatively few patients to replace the blockbusters for the masses now getting competition from generic drugs.
It's also in the vanguard of long-awaited personalized medicine, in which doctors identify patients with gene changes or variations that fuel their disease and then try to match them with new medicines that specifically target those genes.
"This is a paradigm shift," Dr. Paul A. Bunn Jr., a University of Colorado professor and cancer researcher involved in testing Xalkori, told journalists during a conference call hosted by Pfizer. "It used to be that everybody with cancer was treated the same," with surgery and chemotherapy.
Xalkori, a pill with relatively minor side effects compared to the hair loss and nausea that chemotherapy can cause, was approved for the roughly 4 percent of patients with advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer who have what's called the ALK fusion gene.
When ALK, short for anaplastic lymphoma kinase, and another gene on the same chromosome rearrange their positions and fuse together, the ALK gene stays on constantly, fueling cancer cell growth. Xalkori works by blocking the kinase enzyme, key to that process.
About 6,000 Americans a year develop this cancer, Pfizer said. Those patients, called ALK positive, now can be identified with a $250 molecular diagnostic test developed by Pfizer's partner, Abbott Molecular Oncology. The test was also approved Friday.
"You're going to be sparing individuals side effects (and) the waste of resources, time and drug that really isn't going to help them," Dr. Mark Kris, head of the thoracic oncology service at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York, said during the call.
Normally doctors choose among different chemotherpay regimens for each patient, and they may not pick an effective one.
In Pfizer-funded early and midstage studies that led to Xalkori's approval, tumors disappeared, shrank or stopped growing in just over half of patients for nearly two years on average. Research to determine overall survival is ongoing.
By comparison, nonsmall cell lung cancer – about 85 percent of cancer cases – is tough to treat and kills nearly 95 percent of patients within five years. Lung cancer is the top killer among cancers worldwide.
Xalkori, known chemically as crizotinib, costs about $9,600 a month and is taken until it stops fighting tumors, at which point patients likely would be put on older chemo drugs they hadn't taken yet. Pfizer has started a Xalkori patient assistance program with a maximum $100 monthly copayment for insured patients meeting certain financial limits. Insurers are expected to cover the drug for ALK-positive patients.
Jeff Wigbels, an investment bank portflio manager treated in one of the drug studies, said when he started taking it, he couldn't eat because cancer had spread to his throat. Within a week he could eat again and soon scans of his lung and throat no longer showed tumors.
"It was just an amazing experience," he said.
Another patient, Richard Heimler, a former nonprofit executive, said he had one cancerous lung removed seven years ago and repeatedly had new tumors surgically removed from his brain and the other lung, along with chemotherapy. He began taking Xalkori 15 months ago and still takes a pill twice a day.
"My tumors have either disappeared, shrunk or are stable," said Heimler, and he's functioning well again.
Pfizer is currently running two late-stage studies that compare Xalkori to different chemotherapy treatments that have been the standard of care. It's unusual to get approval before completing such large, late-stage studies. Xalkori was approved remarkably quickly, just four years after Japanese researchers reported they had identified the ALK gene variation.
Pfizer is awaiting approval from regulators in the European Union, Switzerland, Japan and Korea, and also is testing crizotinib against other types of cancer.
Pfizer said 3 percent to 5 percent of patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer have the ALK gene fusion. But one research group presented data at a recent cancer conference showing 8 percent of those patients have it.
Pfizer needs some big sellers because its $10.7 billion-a-year cholesterol fighter, Lipitor, the world's top-selling drug, loses U.S. patent protection on Nov. 30. That starts an unprecedented wave of much-cheaper generic versions of many drugs taken daily by millions.
Geno Germano, head of Pfizer's specialty care and oncology business, said Xalkori's development shows Pfizer's core research operation has bounced back.
After successes including Lipitor, antidepressant Zoloft and impotence pill Viagra in the 1990s, Pfizer's in-house scientists have had a string of high-profile drugs fail in patient testing in recent years. That's forced the company to acquire many new drugs through acquisitions and licensing deals.

Information on Mom's positive test for the ALK gene mutation of her cancer

2011-10-27T14:50:00.000-05:00

This is great nes news- the generic name is Crizotinib, but you will see it listed as Xalkori. Anyway, it is a very promising drup and people have become no evidence of disease after taking this form of targeted therapy!!! Keep praying!!! -Nessa

FDA NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: Aug. 26, 2011
Media Inquiries: Erica Jefferson, 301-796-4988, erica.jefferson@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

FDA approves Xalkori with companion diagnostic for a type of late-stage lung cancer
Second targeted therapy approved with a test this year

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Xalkori (crizotinib) to treat certain patients with late-stage (locally advanced or metastatic), non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) who express the abnormal anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene.

Xalkori is being approved with a companion diagnostic test that will help determine if a patient has the abnormal ALK gene, a first-of-a-kind genetic test called the Vysis ALK Break Apart FISH Probe Kit. It is the second such targeted therapy approved by the FDA this year.

This ALK gene abnormality causes cancer development and growth. About 1 percent to 7 percent of those with NSCLC have the ALK gene abnormality. Patients with this form of lung cancer are typically non-smokers. Xalkori works by blocking certain proteins called kinases, including the protein produced by the abnormal ALK gene. Xalkori is a pill taken twice a day as a single-agent treatment.

“The approval of Xalkori with a specific test allows the selection of patients who are more likely to respond to the drug” said Richard Pazdur, M.D., director of the Office of Oncology Drug Products in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “Targeted therapies such as Xalkori are important options for treating patients with this disease and may ultimately result in fewer side effects.”

Xalkori’s safety and effectiveness were established in two multi-center, single-arm studies enrolling a total of 255 patients with late-stage ALK-positive NSCLC. A sample of a patient’s lung cancer tissue was collected and tested for the ALK gene abnormality prior to study enrollment. The studies were designed to measure objective response rate, the percentage of patients who experienced complete or partial cancer shrinkage. Most patients in the studies had received prior chemotherapy.

In one study, the objective response rate was 50 percent with a median response duration of 42 weeks. In another, the objective response rate was 61 percent with a median response duration of 48 weeks.

The FDA based its approval of the Vysis ALK Break Apart FISH Probe Kit on data from one of the studies.

Xalkori was reviewed under the FDA’s priority review program, which provides for an expedited six-month review of drugs that may offer major advances in treatment or that provide a treatment when no adequate therapy exists.

Xalkori is being approved under the FDA’s accelerated approval program, which allows the agency to approve a drug to treat a serious disease based on clinical data showing that the drug has an effect on an endpoint that is reasonably likely to predict a clinical benefit to patients. The program is designed to provide patients with earlier access to promising new drugs, followed by further studies to confirm the drug’s clinical benefit.

Xalkori and the companion Vysis ALK Break Apart FISH Probe Kit were approved ahead of the drug’s Sept. 30, 2011, FDA review goal date and the companion diagnostics’ Sept. 28, 2011, review goal date.

“The trend in oncology research continues towards targeted therapies,” said Alberto Gutierrez, Ph.D., director of the Office of In Vitro Diagnostic Device Evaluation and Safety in the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “This test is an example of the important role companion diagnostics play in determining that the safest and most effective treatments are promptly delivered to patients living with serious and life-threatening diseases.”

The most common side effects reported in patients receiving Xalkori included vision disorders, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, swelling (edema), and constipation. Vision disorders included visual impairment, flashes of light, blurred vision, floaters, double vision, sensitivity to light, and visual field defects. Xalkori use has also been associated with inflammation of the lung tissue (pneumonitis), which can be life-threatening. Patients with treatment-related pneumonitis should permanently stop treatment with Xalkori. The drug should not be used in pregnant women.

In July 2011, FDA issued a draft guidance industry on the agency’s policy for reviewing a companion diagnostic and the corresponding drug therapy. The guidance is currently available for public comment.

Xalkori is marketed by New York City-based Pfizer. The Vysis ALK Break Apart FISH Probe Kit is marketed by Abbott Molecular Inc. of Des Plaines, Ill.

For more information:

FDA: Office of Oncology Drug Products¹

FDA: Office of In Vitro Diagnostics²

FDA: Draft Guidance – In Vitro Companion Diagnostic Devices³

FDA: Approved Drugs: Questions and Answers⁴

NCI: Non-small cell lung cancer ⁵*****

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.

RSS Feed for FDA News Releases⁶ [what is RSS?⁷]

-Vanessa

Lung Cancer Pill Holds Promise for those pass genetic testing-ALK Gene

2011-10-27T14:39:00.000-05:00

Lung Cancer Pill Holds Promise For Those Who Pass Test (Crizotinib-Xalkori)

by Scott Hensley

08:11 am

August 30, 2011

From Pfizer, a drugmaker known best for medicines to treat millions, there is now a twice-a-day pill to treat lung cancer that will be prescribed for only a few thousand people each year.

The Food and Drug Administration approved Pfizer's Xalkori to treat patients with a particular form of non-small cell lung cancer, one that is marked by a genetic variation called ALK.
Only people with tumors that test positive for ALK — about 3 to 5 percent of NSCLC patients, or around 6,500 to 11,000 U.S. patients a year — are candidates for the treatment. By comparison, last year more than 45 million prescriptions were dispensed for Lipitor, the cholesterol-fighter that is Pfizer's biggest seller.

The FDA approved the pill in combination with a genetic test to detect the ALK variation to figure out who has the best chance of responding to the medicine.
The new, highly targeted cancer pill won't come cheap at about $9,600 a month. But the benefits for those with the ALK-positive cancers appear to be substantial. Half or more of patients in the studies cited in the FDA approval responded well to treatment with Xalkori. Their tumors shrank or disappeared.

But there are no definitive data so far on whether the drug extends life, though that's expected to be the case. The FDA approved the drug quickly, under a priority review approach reserved for drugs that have special promise. Pfizer has to perform more studies of the drug to confirm the agency's assessment of Xalkori.

Common side effects from Xalkori include vision problems, nausea and diarrhea. More rarely, in less than 2 percent of cases, patients experienced life-threatening inflammation of the lungs.
One high-profile patient who took Xalkori in clinical trials is former Microsoft engineer Andy Hill, a state senator in Washington. Diagnosed with NSCLC in early 2009, he started taking the pill in October of that year. Since Feb. 2010, he's shown no signs of lung cancer. "It's pretty miraculous," he told the Redmond Reporter. "I am doing things I never thought I would ever be able to do again."
For more on Hill's case and how cancer patients can make the best use of the Internet and medical professionals in making treatment decisions, watch the video below of Dr. Jack West, a lung cancer specialist at Seattle's Swedish Medical Center. (Hat tip on video to Sally Church at Icarus Consulting.)

-Vanessa

So far this week

2011-10-24T19:04:00.000-05:00

Please read the last post for the latest update with Dr's office from last thursday. As far as this week goes, mom isn't feeling too well. She has fluid building up again and will have to go get it drained (thoracentesis) again possibly tomorrow. She is in pain on the right side of her chest. As the fluid builds in the pleural space outside the lung it begins to crush the lung.

We have not been able to get the new medicine Crizotinib yet because the pharmacy did not have it and has to order it. She is checking with them everyday on when it will arrive so that she may go get it. We don't know the exact cost of it yet either, but without insurance it is somewhere around and close to $10,000 for a one month -30 day supply. That is what we were told by the doctor. Even though the medical expenses are astronomical, the fact that mom has been receptive to the chemo (for the most part) thus far and the fact that she is positive for this ALK gene, the expectations are high for the positive results from the crizotinib. It is a pill with minimal side effects. Please God let this work on her and make her no evidence of disease!!!! We are all hopeful and praying!!

Thank you all. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to ask and post them. Thanks.

-Vanessa

The Bad, the good news, and the unknown.

2011-10-21T18:49:00.003-05:00

Well, the CT scan results were good and bad, but more bad than good. However, now we have an opportunity for great. I will explain, but I wanted everyone to know that there is a possible, very positive outcome in all this first.

So, we were sitting in the room and the Physician Assistant came in looking VERY grim and started reading all the results of the scan. He said there’s good and bad. He said: the bad is you have a tumor next to your heart and it is growing minimally. The pleural wall thickening has increased also. The good is that the tumors in your right lung have decreased in size. You won’t get any more chemo because Six rounds is the limit for you and it doesn’t look like it is working well enough anymore. The tumor and thickening that have grown may be a different mutation of the cancer or a different type. The cancer travels through blood and that is how it metastasizes (moves around in the body and attaches itself there).

It was very traumatic and difficult to hear. So, I immediately asked the PA about the genetic testing that was done on the fluid in her lungs (that had the cancer cells in it- the testing is done for the purpose of targeted therapy) <Side Note: I have asked every meeting with PA since July when it was done. Results came in August when they switched doctors on us and then the results were ‘lost’, but at the last appointment I asked again and he said he would personally find them>, the results were in the chart and it found that she was positive for the ALK Gene. However, it was a partial mutation. I don’t know what that means yet because I don’t have a copy of the results. I will ask for them. Anyway, this is good news. Once the PA and Doctor saw the results of this they became so excited for my moms future and what this means. They were so giddy and practically dancing over finding out that she had this ALK gene. The FDA recently pushed to pass a drug called Crizotiib that is targeted for this ALK gene. The difference means that where Chemo works 30% this pill drug with minimal side effects works 70% results. Only 5% of lung cancers have this ALK gene mutation. It is incredibly rare.This is amazing that she has it. It is unknown territory, but this is great. It is positive. It is good news. We now have another chance at beating this disease!! She can heal with our prayers!! Everyone must believe this and believe in God's will and understanding.

It is so easy to fall into a dark place of the hopelessness and helplessness that is felt when you are dealing with cancer. We all must stay positive and remember our faith and believe in God's healing power. Pray with me.... us.....

I pray that she will become No Evidence of Disease (NED). God please continue to heal her physically and emotionally. Be with her always and let her feel your strength and goodness. Help her to know that she is not alone and that we all support her. Please God Bless her soul, forgive her for any wrong and misgivings, absolve her of all her sins. Please lord be with her. She is so good and amazing and we need her presence in our lives. Please Lord be with us and hear our prayers. Amen.

God, I ask you to heal her. I love her so much and I am not ready for any more bad news. I know that is selfish of me, but I ask you to please heal her. She is one of your vessels and I appreciate that, but please let her be a learning experience and heal her. Thank you for all that you have done. I know you are with us and I appreciate your kindness and your help in everything that you give us. Thank you. Amen.

-Vanessa

Nervous about CT Scans tomorrow

2011-10-17T19:20:00.001-05:00

Well, tomorrow Mom gets more CT scans at 3pm. Mom is a little nervous and anxious. It hard waiting to get the results. We just pray that the scans show the tumors gone! I know God is healing her and please lord, please don't show anything on those and please do show that the tumors are gone. Amen.

We appreciate all of your prayers. Please continue to pray with us this week as we get the results on thursday. Thank you and God bless.

Realizing she is physically not up to her usual strength is tough this week

2011-10-16T19:33:00.000-05:00

Mom, is okay but this week has been a little tough. She had her round six chemo treatment a week ago last Thursday and I think it actually wiped her out the most of all of them. She was definitely more fatigued and suffered from exhaustion longer this time. She was pretty much out of it last weekend and just rested. She told me that Tuesday was a really rough day for her and that the people in the child support court (basement of court house were extremely helpful to her). She is still going to work to help keep her mind off things and of course there are lots of bills to pay so she actually has to work. Anyway, she almost passed out from the nausea and effects of the chemo, but her friends and colleagues were there to help and she is extremely grateful. The rest of the week went alright, but by the time she got home at the end of the day she was exhausted. This weekend she has been picking up around the house and has been vacuuming and it is definitely harder for her physically as well as emotionally because she realizes that she is not as strong as she once was. It was very difficult, but she is stronger than she realizes too!!! Her physical strength will come back as well.

On tuesday we go for more CT scans and the Dr's appointment is next thursday. I will keep you informed on the results.

Thank you.

Round 6 done and still feeling the side effects

2011-10-07T20:10:00.000-05:00

Well, on thursday mom had round 6 chemo and she has been doing pretty well, but it did take quite a bit out of her. She has been feeling the fatigue and nausea pretty hard. Other than that she is doing well and staying positive. Hopefully this weekend will be relaxing and rejuvenating.

Keep her in your prayers. We will meet with the doctors again in a couple weeks and start a new maintenance program. We will keep you all informed on the progress. God bless!

CTRC Appointment today was good.

2011-09-29T21:41:00.000-05:00

It actually was the easiest meeting we've had being at the doctors. Nothing new to worry or fret over and it went very smooth. We still have to keep watch over the bloody noses, anemia, hematomas from the blood thinner shots, nausea, and vomitting, but other than that things are looking good. Mom is worried about a few silly pounds that she has put on, but as the doctors say... they would rather her gain weight than lose weight.

She is keeping her spirits up and seems to be handling it well. I know that she is frustrated a bit at times and still feeling lonely, but it is really hard going through this. She mainly is just trying not think about it and keep herself busy so she won't think about it.

I ask if you see her just give her a hug or a kiss on the cheek. Don't feel bad if she starts tearing up, they tears of friendship and knowing that she is not alone and people care about her.

Thank you all.

-Vanessa

Overwhelming....

2011-09-21T23:48:00.000-05:00

We are all overwhelmed. We don't know what the future holds, but for now we are so happy that my mom's tumor's are shrinking. I wish that the doctors would continue the chemo because she is handling it so well. Her hair is shedding, but it has not fallen out completely, she does have nose bleeds, and nausea. Even though these are her symptoms, it could be worse and I don't want to focus on that. she is doing so well and she is the most amazing woman I have ever met. I am proud of her and proud to be her daughter.

I still can't believe it ever happened. I wish my brothers would write on here about how they feel and deal with it. Because I find it very difficult to be the only one saying anything and talking about my mom's condition. It is really hard and it hurts everyday. I am trying to be strong for my mother, but it still hurts and its hard. I love her very much and I pray that god will heal her. He is healing her.

If you see my mom, please give her the biggest hug you have ever given and just tell her you love her even if you don't know her that well. And if you don't know her that well, you should really try... because she is the most amazing woman (educated, traveled, experienced) you will ever meet. She's been to Africa.. Ask her about it.... ask her about France, Prague, Scotland, Her travels........ Ask her......

I keep telling her to write a book... encourage her to do it, because she should.

Love,

Nessa

My mom is really brave and will forever be an idol of mine

2011-09-20T01:36:00.000-05:00

I love my mother, she may not recognize it because of our difficulties in communication as a daughter and mother relationship. It is really hard to have conversations that are so emotional, but I will always look up to her as I always have. We may not get along or agree on things, but I will forever hold her in my heart as one of the most amazing persons I have ever been blessed to know. I am even more blessed to be so lucky as to have her as my mother. I pray that she knows how much she means to me. She truly is an awesome (in every meaning of the word-awesome) woman! She is so giving and kind. She is always doing so much for others. A true humanitarian. She is very inspiring in all of her knowledge and never ending search for truth and honesty... Even though it is difficult to find that truth and honesty that we all want to avoid within ourselves.

I wish we could all be honest. Honest with each other always and not be afraid to speak of our fears or vulnerabilities and accept that we may not want to hear what is said; But in what may be said can come happiness and peace because we can all be accepting of each other and our feelings and our fears.

I hope that of you all who do read this blog will share your thoughts and I also hope that we can all learn from these experiences and try better ourselves.

Peace be with you.

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes : )

Round 5, finally happened.. took forever....

2011-09-16T22:57:00.001-05:00

I should first write about the fact that mom has to give herself shots in the stomach now because of that thrombosis (blood clot) in the right jugular vein. The shots make her dizzy for a while and she has to do it twice a day- 6:30am and 6:30pm, every day. Its one more thing that is complicated and difficult.

Anyway, mom was able to get her fifth round of chemo on thursday. She was there at 7am and had to wait till about 1pm before she was able to get the chemo. Interestingly, she was next to another guy that was getting chemo for testicular cancer and he was in jail for burglary and had a guard the entire time watching him. I think its really great that our current healthcare is so giving to criminals who get it for free and yet if you own a home or make just above the margin for qualification of certain help (regardless of how much debt you may have because that doesn't count at all)... I could go on, but I don't see a point in it anymore. The world and government is so corrupt. I told my mom today that maybe she shoud just go commit a felony and then she will get it for free like the criminals do. It was in poor taste for me to say that, but there is a part of me where none of this makes sense. And I have questions and possibly still looking for an answer or something to blame. So far I know I can blame beaurocracy and big Pharma. It is who you know and how much money you have or how affluent you are. I am saddened that we can't just look at people and see them as our own brothren or god's children and just help each other. I know many have lost their path or maybe never even knew they had one becuase of the way they were raised.
Cancer frightens me becuase there is no specific scenario, Do you have a choice and what do you do.

There is a little voice inside of all of us that tells us what we should do or not do. We should all remember to listen and follow the litte voice. Listen to our angel. It is our most comforting tool, and we should go with it.
Anyhow, Mom went to round 5 and did well. I brought her liver and onions for lunch from lubys because she needs more iron. She also ate some spinach. I love that. I am glad becaues I am worried about her anemia coming back. She had a really bad bout last year. So with these blood thinning anticoagulants you can imagine that there are severe side effects and anemia is one them which she is prone to.
Please comment an paste your concerms. Share you story too. We all feel alone and it is hard sometimes.

Thank you

Dr's appointment today-Mostly good, but some complications.

2011-09-13T21:38:00.000-05:00

S we met with the new Dr today, but first we sat and spoke with his P.A. who took forever to tell us the good news and the anticipation was so stressful and unnerving that when he finally told us mom's tumors have shrunk a little more and that most likely the new doctor will continue to round 5 and round 6, she bursted with tears. We are so happy that the chemo is still working. I knew it was. My faith is strong and I believe God is healing her. The newest CT scan showed the thickening of the pleural has reduced a little and that the tumors are a little smaller in size. One tumor that was 13 mm at round 2 is now at 10mm. Also, the scan showed no fluid build up in the pleural space. So, even though all this is great news one thing did show up in the scan that was incidental and a complete accident that they found it. They found a thrombosis in the right jugular vein. This means she has a blood clot. They took an ultrasound of her neck and said it most likely developed within the last 10 days. Dr says it is a common side effect of the chemo. Now she has to be worried about pulmonary embolism. Dr. gave her a prescription for Lovenox which is a really expensive ($1500month) anticoagulant (blood thinner). This drug is taken by injection into the stomach every 12 hours. Some of its side effects can include more nausea, redness, swelling, bleeding (which is not good with a blood thinner), redness and rash, and anemia. Anemia is a concern for mom because last year she battled with anemia as well. So we really need to watch out for bleeding which can lead to hemorrhaging and the anemia which can do the same.
Anyway, so after learning all that. The new Dr. tells us that he believes continuing to round 6 is a good idea (YES!!!) and after that she will continue on a maintenance program. He said possibly the maintenance program will consist of the Alimta and Avastin (she is already taking both as part of her chemo regimen. The only one left out will be the carboplatin).
So, today was supposed to be round 5 after the doctor's appointment and ultrasound, but her blood work came back and her white blood cell count was too low again. She will try again on thursday for round 5. So between now and then lots of cooked veggies and fish to eat and lots of water for her immune system. She did get her Lovenox medicine so she started the first dose this evening. She is so strong. Continue praying. We thank you so much. God bless you.

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes

Depression and Family

2011-09-12T00:10:00.000-05:00

Its been really hard going through all the emotions. I think we are all upset and trying to avoid the reality of what Mom's diagnosis is. I think she is trying to avoid it too as much as possible. Family,moms, dads, sons, daughters, brothers and sisters. There are so many aspects of life that we all have to be responsible for. We have to be there for each other and not fight or be destructive because we are afraid to communicate with one another. I understand that we all secretly want someone to blame or to find a reason, but the reality is that with cancer there is no answer.

I really do believe that she will beat this cancer. I have faith in God and that His will is to heal her. I pray that my family will be able to come together and be open, truly open and communicate.

My mom has agreed to go to therapy with me. I think this is huge. We definitely need this to be able to truly say everything that we harbor inside both of us and to let out our frustrations and anger with this disease out and not on each other because we love each other so much and at times it is difficult to not be mad or really sad and want to put blame on something or be angry at something. I am speaking from my heart and I know that we are all upset and hurting and trying to hide it. I don't want to hide it anymore. I don't want to have anything festering inside of me or my family and I don't want anything to hold me or my family back. We need to be able discuss all of this and so even though I know we are all depressed and trying to hide it, we are going to be talk about it with a professional. Thank you. Thank you all for being a part of our lives.

God Bless America.

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes

I love you so much mom

2011-09-03T00:10:00.000-05:00

I just want you to know how much I love you. I love you and there are no words to describe how much

Some of the difficulties of going through cancer

2011-09-03T00:05:00.001-05:00

Loneliness, is a major part of this. Its not just lonely for the person that is going through it, but the family around the person feels it too. Loneliness is difficult. You experience it even when you look your friends in the face. You feel it almost all the time. You don't feel it when you preoccupy yourself with other things to do or work. My mom is able to go to work. She is exhausted by it, but it helps her keep her mind off things. I know she feels lonely. I've always worried about her, even before she was diagnosed with cancer about her loneliness. I wish and hope that in this fight she will feel us all with her. This disease can be condemning, but it doesn't have to be. I really don't want to believe that its happened, but it has. I don't understand why it has happened to my mom because she is a good woman. Regardless, its happened and I know she will get through this.

I've always believed that everything in life happens for a reason. Maybe she can help science or faith in people. Her being diagnosed has solidified my faith! I pray that my mom will overcome this. I don't care if everyone else thinks I'm crazy for believing in the healing power of God. He is healing her.

My mom is an amazing person, who is getting herself out there every day and continues to do for others, but I know that she feels lonely. She is in this fight for her life by herself because only she can face what she is going through. None of us will ever know what she is feeling. I pray that she knows we are all here for her. How can we show it? We can talk to her and not be afraid to speak our mind. We can all discuss things not of generalties, but our true nature and being. How can we let her know that she is not alone? We can all let her know she is not alone because we all feel that way and we are all afraid of things and thats why we can count on each other and are here for each other. We are all scared of what we don't know. However, we can be there for each other. How do we know when our last day is. We don't. It can be anything. It can happen today or tomorrow; a car accident or 10 years from now. We certainly have no idea with cancer. Cancer is a weird disease. It can go away in some people and they become No Evidence of Disease and live happily. I believe it can happen that way in my mom. She has a cancer inside of her and we can fix it. Can we make her better? I have faith in God that we can. God will heal her. It is his will. We can pray:
"Be strong and of good courage; Be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: For the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest." Joshua 1:9

My mom gave be this prayer when I was a kid. I have always believed there was someone, supernatural, with me. My faith is solid. I believe in the Lord and I believe it his will to heal her.

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes

Interesting new type of therapy to consider

2011-08-30T06:44:00.000-05:00

Well, now that mom has a new doctor and wants to evaluate where she is at and continuing treatment, I would like to ask him what he thinks about Photodynamic therapy (PDT)—a type of laser therapy. A chemical is injected into the bloodstream. It is then absorbed by the cells of the body. The chemical rapidly leaves normal cells. It will remain in cancer cells for a longer time. A laser aimed at the cancer activates the chemical. This chemical then kills the cancer cells that have absorbed it. This treatment may also be used to reduce symptoms.
Its a new type of treatment that is not widely used, but is considered a potential therapy by the National Cancer Institute. Anyway, we will have to wait and see until after September 9 when mom gets more scans done and we can see whether its just scar tissue or new little tumor cells in the pleural space.

I have faith that the Dr. is only going to see scar tissue and that he will see the tumors are shrinking.

The main thing we all must do is continue to pray and ask God to hear our prayers to heal her.

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes

Prayer to heal Cindy Sue Hudson of Cancer

2011-08-29T20:12:00.000-05:00

O God, our Father, Your Word says that You are a very present help in the time of need. I come to You now on behalf of Cindy Sue Hudson who is suffering with cancer. Father, I ask You, in the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, to touch and heal her.
Distance is no problem for You, God. As I pray, You are there with her, even as close as the very breath she breathes. So I am asking You to touch her body and heal her.

Now, you foul disease called cancer, I speak to you. Go from her body in the Name of Jesus! I command you, cancerous cells, to wither and die at the roots in the Name of Jesus!! Devil, I bind your power in Cindy's life, and I command healing to come to her now, in the Name of Jesus!

Father, I ask You to replace with new cells those that have been damaged by cancer. God, You can do that, because what is impossible with man is possible with You. You are a God who cares, and we believe You will do it just because we have asked. You love us that much.

Father, may strength and wholeness come into Cindy's body this very day. Thank You, Lord, for doing it.

I thank You, Jesus that we will hear good reports from people who have been healed because they held fast to their confession of faith without wavering, because You are faithful who promised. Thank You, Father, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Its actually a little rough this week

2011-08-27T23:28:00.000-05:00

I apologize for not writing sooner, but its been a little difficult these last few days. Mom met with the new Dr. and he's not quite as positive as the last one. Mom is okay, but even more fatigued and nauseas than ever. I pray for her every day and night! She's had 4 rounds of chemo and considering that I would think she is doing fantastic, the new Dr. has brought up some up concerns that we don't have answers for yet. We have to wait till Sept. 8 and 9. There has been confusion and we need to get in touch with her other Doctor, Dr, Mita, who left for California. I will explain tomorrow, but I am tired and so is my mom. Bless you all.

Well, it went okay today and mom is feeling alright

2011-08-23T22:09:00.000-05:00

It was a really late start with the chemo today, but she seemed to have a little bit of spunk when she got home. Just for a little bit, but it was good. Of course the nausea follows as usual. So the next Dr's appointment is on thursday and will get more information. Tomorrow, mom will go and get another thoracentesis done to take out the fluid that has built up.

Will keep you posted!!!

August 23 round 4 chemo

2011-08-23T17:25:00.000-05:00

“Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work” (2 Thes. 2:16-17).

Mom's white blood count was good this morning so she is still getting the chemo. They took x-rays of her lungs and said not to worry too much. We will see the new Doctor on thursday and go over everything. It will be a really long day for mom at the hospital. She probably won't be done till around 8pm. She is alright and the fluid that is building up can be removed. She is stubborn, but she will not give up. She will continue to fight this and is staying strong!!!!!

Have no fear, God is with us. Hear our prayer

2011-08-22T23:39:00.000-05:00

“…the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:26-28).

Something is going on, but we don't know yet

2011-08-21T12:21:00.000-05:00

Well, after round 3 we thought all was going great because the tumors looked like they were shrinking on the ct scan comparison from before starting to then. Right now, she feels like there is fluid building back up in her lung. Not sure what this means exactly, but it doesn't feel like its a sign in the direction we thought we were heading. She goes in for round 4 on tuesday and will get her white blood count done. We have a doctors appointment after that to which we will probably do another scan and get x-rays to check the lung and tumors.
I just pray that the tumors are shrinking and that she will soon be "no evidence of disease" so that all we have to do is continue with the maintenance program and that she will be okay. Its all just very scary and hard to relate. I know she feels lonely and scared. Pray and keep your faith. God bless!

-Vanessa

Today was rough...

2011-08-16T22:13:00.000-05:00

Well, mom really isn't feel good at all. It was a difficult day for her and just really felt awful. Feeling bad all day long has overwhelmed her and makes her feel frustrated. I hate seeing her feel so bad. I wish there was something I could do to help her feel better. It definitely doesn't help that on top of feeling so bad, all she wanted to do was lay down and try to relax and watch tv, but the uverse went out and wasn't getting a signal. I was on the phone with them, but they couldn't fix it and will send someone out tomorrow. Just really sucks because she likes to sleep with the noise of the television. The tv going out also added to me feeling guilty because I'm the one who changed companies and had the uverse installed and for some reason its been a little hanky. Hopefully they will fix it and it won't be expensive. I just want her to be comfortable and I know that its pretty much impossible.

She goes in for round 4 on the 23th.

-Vanessa

Still nauseated, but hanging in there.

2011-08-14T00:31:00.001-05:00

I apologize for it being a while since I've posted updates. I was out of town for a few days, but mom is doing alright. Its really hard for her to be nauseas all the time and she isn't keeping solids down very well. She is trying though, but it is difficult. She is staying positive and during the week she is out and trying to work as much as she can. The little bit of work she can do is helping to keep her mind off the cancer and chemo. I am very proud of her.

She did get another B12 shot on thursday so that should help her feel better and of course she continues to take folic acid every day and of course drink lots of water.

Please comment if you have any questions at all. I am more than happy to answer any questions. God bless you all and thank you.

Tough week, but mom is strong

2011-08-05T23:18:00.000-05:00

This 3^rd round of chemo has hit her pretty hard. She still was running around and doing things this week but has been extremely nauseated by this round of chemo and I know that getting up and going to do for others every day is what she feels she needs to do. I am amazed at how she continues to think of others and do for them. We hope others see her as someone who they can go to for help. She is always helping others and will continue to do so. I hope that people will see her kindness and continue to help her as well.

She is being strong and stubborn and sassy, as that is kind of her mantra in order to beat this disease (“beast” as she calls it) within. I am concerned because I know she is pushing herself. So if you see her please be mindful and understand how she is doing. She puts on a good front, but she is in pain and managing.

The next treatment is scheduled for the 23rd of August and we pray that the white cell count stays up to allow the treatment because this last time it wasn’t and had to be moved.

Anyway, I am very happy that my Mom hasn’t lost her hair even though it is still shedding and changing colors, but that is a side effect of the chemo too.

The one message she reminds me of is that she loves her children very much and she is proud of all of us. I believe that my brothers and I are decent and good people and I will attribute that to all my parents. My mom really is an amazing person. She is an incredible woman, mother, friend, and human being.

Thank you.

-Vanessa

Round 3 went well!!!

2011-08-02T21:58:00.000-05:00

I just want to give everyone a quick update on mom's status. Round 3 went very well today. It was a late start, but there were no problems at all. I brought mom some lunch and we hung out during the chemo. At least they have tv so we were able to watch Dr Oz. Mom really likes that show. He is very informative. Anyway, it was slow and a long day in the hospital, but it was good. Afterwards mom was able to visit with a few friends. She is tired, but feeling alright. It truly is amazing that she is handling the chemo so well. The docors are so pleased at her results.

I will right more tomorrow. Have a great night and God bless!

Tumors are shrinking! and some new changes in Dr's and plan

2011-07-29T02:23:00.001-05:00

We received the Ct scan results from last saturday and the Dr. compared them to to the scans from May before she started chemotherapy. The tumors are shrinking and so are the cancerous lymph nodes in the pleural lining. This is absolutely fantastic!!! It means that the chemotherapy is working.

Please understand though, that even though it is awesome news, this new, life altering predicament is not over. She will have to live with this for the rest of her life on a maintenance chemo program until there is a cure. It was really hard to accept that, but we all have to.

I have to tell you that we were worried and curious about why the Dr. was even ordering a Ct scan after only 2 rounds of chemo and when they called last week for mom to get the scan done we were informed that her Dr is leaving and moving out to California. Its going to be alright because he cares so much about all of his patients and he will keep in touch! I truly believe that he will. He gave his word.

Mom's new Dr is supposed to be really great too. It is just difficult to switch Dr's mid-beginning when you and the family are already so emotionally involved. It just adds to the fear of the unknown. It really throws us for a loop because here are with our Dr., the Dr. of our dreams who is saving her life and doing everything that is right and now it all changes.We haven't met the new Dr yet either. Its the unknown. He may even change the Dr's orders- we don't know. Each dr. has there own phlilosophy on how to treat cancer as each person is affected differently anyway.

It is unnerving when the Dr., whom we trust, tells us that he and mom's next new Dr. have different philosophy's on treatment of cancer. I did ask if we can just tell the new Dr that we want to follow the previous orders. It is a little premature I guess, but it all happens so fast. Our doctor has his last in clinic next thursday. The new dr we won't even meet for a month. Mom will have done round 3 and 4 before we meet him. To me, that is a little scary. Makes me anxious.

I am praying for the best and I hope all of you know that your prayers are working!!! I will post more tomorrow, but for now sleep is in order for me. Feel free to leave comments or questions.

God bless!
-Vanessa L H Reyes

Your prayers mean so much!

2011-07-29T01:39:00.001-05:00

Prayer is an essential tool for healing. Healing prayers come from those who pray for the sick as well as the sick praying for themselves.

Prayer is our greatest opportunity to connect with spiritual energy.

A prayer for healing
God, hear my prayer,
And let my cry come to You.
Do not hide from me in the day of my distress
Turn to me and speedily answer my prayer.
Eternal God, Source of healing,
Out of my distress I call upon You.
Help me sense Your presence
At this difficult time.
Grant me patience when the hours are heavy;
In hurt or disappointment give me courage.
Keep me trustful in Your love.
Give me strength for today, and hope for tomorrow.
To your loving hands I commit my spirit
When asleep and when awake. You are with me; I shall not fear

CancerVive Foundation Golf Tournament Saturday July 30, 2011

2011-07-24T10:18:00.000-05:00

The Kathryn Brown Cancervive Foundation is a 501 (C) (3) Non-Profit organization that is personally focused on assisting individuals that are currently battling the disease of cancer. Kathryn Brown who is a survivor of Ovarian and Breast Cancer continues to provide aid for individuals and family members who are suffering with this awful disease. We have been successful for what we do because of companies like yours who have donated to this cause. As a foundation we are determined and focused on making life much easier for cancer patients in our community.

How can you help? We have teamed up with the Blue Knight chapter 12, Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club to host our 1st annual Charity for Golf, Golf tournament at the Westin La Cantera Resort, 8am, July 30, 2011. This tournament is in support of Attorney Cindy Hudson who was diagnosed with stage 4 Lung Cancer, with no health insurance. Any level of your participation will be helpful and greatly appreciated.

I sincerely hope that you are able to contribute to our cause, and I look forward to discussing any questions that you may have regarding our organization or our scheduled golf tournament.

Sincerely,

Kathryn Brown

Kathryn Brown-CEO/Founder
210 386-1143-Cell Phone
Email- Kathryn@ribbonsofawareness.org
Web Site-www.ribbonsofawareness.org

This blog is about my mom

2011-07-23T01:00:00.001-05:00

This blog is completely about my mom and cancer. Any kind of cancer as I am learning. The one thing about cancer that I have learned and completely realize is that for every person cancer is different. I will post as I understand. I will also post of my mom's condition.

For now, she still has her hair. She hasn't lost it, but it is thinning. She actually is doing rather well. She has been extremely nauseated and fatigued though. She is getting out of the house and working as much as she can. She had a CT scan today, but we won't get the results until next thursday. Her blood count has been low, but is getting checked regularly to monitor it. She is so amazing. I love her.

-Vanessa

CTRC tomorrow for a CT scan... after 2 rounds

2011-07-22T23:39:00.000-05:00

Well, Mom's blood count has been down and the Dr's office called yesterday because they want to do a Cat Scan of her situation and see how she is reacting to the chemo. It will be interesting, but we won't see the actual doctor till next thursday. We will have to wait.

God bless!

Radon and Lung Cancer

2011-07-21T23:14:00.000-05:00

Radon is the number 2 cause of Lung Cancer and follows smoking as number 1. Radon is an oderless, tasteless, colorless, and radioactive gas that is formed naturally as uranium decays in the soil, rock, and water, and it is released into the air we breathe. Radon comes up through the ground into the air and into our homes where it can build up. Uranium is found in Texas and is mined here, however, the radon levels in Bexar county are reported as being low and at safe levels. It is recommended that everyone test their homes for radon levels because radon gas accumulates indoors and each home/or office will have different results. Testing your home is inexpensive and easy and the only way to know if you are at risk. Please note if your home is at risk, it can be fixed. There are radon reduction systems available and there are possibly easy fixes too. I recommend going to www.epa.gov/radon

Just so that everyone knows I waited before posting this information till I got the results back from testing mom's house, in which mom's house is fine and is well below the average radon levels in homes anyway. So, its not the house, which is great to know!!!

I really do recommend though that everyone test their homes. Radon gas is responsible for over 20,000 deaths a year. Levels are reportedly extremely high in Iowa state. Texas gov't will send out a free radon test kit (limited supply) that you can get through the Environmental Protection Website or your State Radon Office at http://www.epa.gov/radon/whereyoulive.html . Also, consider finding out what your levels of Radon are in your drinking water at Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1 800-426-4791

If you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you

-Vanessa

Help is always there

2011-07-18T22:18:00.002-05:00

A cancer diagnosis for yourself or a loved one will immediately invoke several powerful emotions and an array of questions and concerns. Feelings of fear, uncertainty, and hopelessness are natural responses to receiving the news of a diagnosis. There are groups for many different kinds of cancers including but not limited to breast cancer, skin cancer, and colon cancer. Even when diagnosed with a terminal type of cancer, like mesothelioma in which the median life expectancy is 4 to 18 months. you and your love ones will still benefit from maintaining a positive outlook. Thinking negatively will only reduce the mental and emotional energy that is necessary for surviving, healing, and coping with this sickness.

The first and most important thing to consider is that you are not alone. There are millions of other people who are being treated for cancer, are in remission, or are survivors. Many people who have shared a similar experience are ready and waiting to help you through this difficult time. Whether you are a patient undergoing treatment, or a loved one looking for the best way to provide support, talking to others will be extremely helpful and therapeutic. Numerous websites and organizations are available to provide support and therapy. The American Cancer Society has a section on their website devoted to finding support and treatment with articles ranging from paying for treatment, to coping with negative emotions. The importance of communication is stressed in building a support network and making sure that all the emotional needs of the patient are met.

If you are not ready to talk yet, writing about your situation can be quite cathartic. It will also give you a way to organize your thoughts and feelings so you are able to communicate these to others when you are ready. Try a free flow form of writing in which you write down anything that comes to mind. It is important to identify what you are feeling so that you can cope with that feeling, however difficult it might be. Try to be as specific as possible. If you are scared, try to identify exactly what you are afraid of. Are you afraid of pain? Are you afraid of the costs of treatment? In order to absolve your fears and negative emotions, you must identify the source of negativity and face it directly. The most important thing to remember is that when you are ready: Help Is Always There!

For more information on support, try these sites:
www.cancercenter.org

www.thewellnesscommunity.org

www.livestrong.org

www.cancercare.org

www.inspire.com

By: David Haas

Cancer Support Groups

2011-07-18T22:14:00.000-05:00

As the number of cancer diagnoses increases, so does the number of cancer support groups. Cancer support groups are groups in which cancer patients can join and find help, resources, and companionship in other cancer patients. Patients can find local, statewide, nationwide, and even international cancer support groups to join. Some groups are cancer specific, while many tailor to cancer patients in general.

These support groups are a great tool for fighting and surviving cancer. Many studies have examined these groups and have found them to be an important part of cancer treatment. One study examined the psychosocial benefits of cancer support groups and found that women in these groups were "significantly less depressed, less anxious, and had more knowledge of their illness. This resulted in better relationships with care givers, fewer sexual difficulties, and more participation in leisure activities.

Support groups also provide companionship for cancer patients. In these groups, people gain friends, connections, and support beneficial to their recovery. Many cancer support groups use the same methods and activities to help patients such as counseling, informational sessions about cancer related subjects, social events, doctor and hospital referrals, and some even include support like free rides and hotel stays. Cancer support groups are incredibly beneficial because they offer services and support that cancer patients cannot get on their own or from family members who have never had cancer. Cancer support Groups are more than just information, they are a network of other cancer patients that will support each other, celebrate each other's victories, and share each other's tears.

Cancer support groups are the medicine that doctors cannot inject and cancer cannot defeat. Many studies even show a correspondence of survival rates to cancer support treatment groups. Support groups can help you manage and survive during cancer. Even for those who have non-treatable cancers, these groups can help inject a positive outlook on life, which might not increase their life expectancy, but will most definitely make their last years more comfortable and enjoyable. When medicine and support come together, we can win against cancer!

By: David Haas

Dr's appointment tomorrow at CTRC

2011-07-14T22:16:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow we have an appointment at 11am to go over how mom is feeling and and handling the treatment so far. Mainly she is extremely nauseas. The nausea has been getting worse and she hasn't kept her food down to well lately. Other than that she is feeling okay and is moving around just fine. She is still working a little bit right now while she can which is good because it helps keep her mind off of things. She has had a few good cries, but she is handling it well. She knows and understands that God gives us what we can handle. She is strong and will overcome!

-Vanessa

Vote and help Cancer Alliance donate money!

2011-07-14T22:00:00.000-05:00

The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance is giving a dollar per follower of @CancerAlliance to a cancer organization with the most votes. They are currently holding an online poll which can be found at http://can.cr/vote. This is a great way to make a difference in the cancer community! I hope everyone will join in the fight to defend against this deadly disease! The Jimmy Fund is the organization with the most votes right now so start voting and following if you want to make a difference!

Week 1 after round 2

2011-07-11T15:41:00.000-05:00

So far so good! Mom seems to have had a good weekend. She is feeling nauseated and fatigued and her throat is sore, but she is getting around well and getting out of the house a little. It takes a few days for the chemo to actually kick in. So, we imagine that by wednesday she probably won't be feeling up to doing much.

Please feel free to reply, leave comments, and ask questions.

Thank you all.

-Vanessa

Round 2

2011-07-08T10:09:00.000-05:00

We are starting round two of chemo today. We've been at the hospital since 7:15 and mom got hooked up around 9am. So, it will be a long day, but atleast I was able to get the internet working! : )

She has some magazines, laptop, and chocolate! Oh and her phone for texting. So, if anyone would like to send her prayers and positive thinking she is available through her texting. : )

She did eat a potato and egg breakfast taco so thats good.

Prayers all around!

We had a great 4th of July weekend

2011-07-06T22:48:00.000-05:00

This weekend was a lot of fun with the grandkids and all of us being together. We went to Canyon Lake for a little while on Saturday, the Circus on Sunday, and hung out by the pool on Monday morning for a little bit. It was really great to get some activities in and just be with those adorable little boys.

This week has been good for Cindy. She is getting out of the house and working a little bit too. She will start round 2 of the chemotherapy on friday the 8th. So she will start taking the steroid for 3 days again tomorrow. As it is she takes the folic acid everyday and her diet is cooked vegetables and meat and extremely well washed/peeled fruits. She will drink the Odwalla superfood smoothies which is good and the boost/ensure chocolate milk shakes (full of nutrients).

After this second treatment we will probably start to see some more of the common side effects. Our hopes and prayers are that she does not suffer any more at all and heals well from it.

My husband and I will be moving in with her soon to help her through the treatment and take care of her. As it is we live 20-25 minutes away from her and it would just be easier to be there just in case. I am more than positive that she will overcome this obstacle. We all know it will be difficult going through the chemotherapy treatments as it will become harder on her body, but she is so strong and God's love shines through her, she will get through this!

Thank you all for love, support, and all of your help. God bless you.

-Vanessa Hudson Reyes

Feeling good and finally getting out of the house : )

2011-06-29T21:05:00.000-05:00

Mom did well today. She went downtown and made some appearances. It wiped her out a little bit by the end of the day, but she felt good to get out of the house and do some light work. Her hair cut is really cute and she looks great! Her next chemo is next week, so we are enjoying her feeling good at every chance!!!

God bless!

Doin' alright!!

2011-06-28T17:01:00.000-05:00

So mom had the 6th thoracentesis done today. It went well!! They drained less than a liter which means the chemo is working because there was less fluid build up. She is feeling good and doing well! My brother (Mike), his wife (Annie), and his 2 boys (William and Charlie) will be flying in this weekend for a quick visit. It will be the last time they can come down for a long while. It will be good for us all to be together again. My mom will have her second round of chemotherapy on July 8th. She hasn't lost any hair and hasn't experienced the nausea either. Just, extreme fatigue and loss of appetite the first week after. Hopefully, the second round will go as well as the first!!

God bless and thank you

Help Cindy S. Hudson Fight Cancer!

2011-06-28T16:40:00.001-05:00

Click on picture and it will link to album of photos

Monday

2011-06-27T11:50:00.001-05:00

Mom is doing well today. She is up and about and feeling better. She went to church yesterday and is getting some exercise. It is so great to see her looking and feeling good! Thank you for your prayers and support.

The rash is still somewhat present, but is less bothersome and not noticeable. Rash, is a common side effect of the drug Alimta. The rash can appear between treatments and usually goes away before the next treatment. Rarely, these reactions may become severe (and lead to Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis-which is a cell death where the epidermis separates from the dermis). More commonly, the reaction is a minor allergic reaction called Eryhema multiforme. It is a hypersensitive reaction in response to the medications. Anyway, she is fine and you can't see it or even tell.

Tomorrow, we go to the doctor again to see about that 6th thoracentesis getting done and will find out if there is any recourse to be had. We are hopeful the doctor will say great things and she is feeling ready to get out and do some light work and see people.

God bless.

Friday, June 24, 2011

2011-06-24T22:18:00.000-05:00

Mom is moved out of her office on S. Main officially. I was able to pack up her books and files and she will be able to work from home a bit. She is feeling alright, just a little weak and tired. She is taking her medicine and will hopefully have great results from it soon.

Prayer helps!! Remember to be Positive!!!

Today could've been better, but there will be bumps in the road to recovery.

2011-06-23T20:19:00.001-05:00

Well, mom was supposed to get her 6th thoracentesis today. This one was important because we need to get the genetic typing done. The genetic typing will tell the doctors exactly what type of treatment she needs and will tell how to treat this cancer. She did not get the thoracentesis (pleural drain). Doctor was concerned because she is having a reaction to one of the chemo drugs (Alimta). She has developed a rash, but this is a common side effect of the drug Alimta. We just have to monitor it and she is now taking a glucocorticoid. It is an adrenocorticoid that is both naturally occuring and synthetic. Its just scary because everything has a side effect. Anyway, she will have to wait to get the thoracentesis until next tuesday. Other than that she is not experiencing nausea or vomitting or any hair loss. She is eating alright and she is moving around enough.

I really think if we can keep that rash down without any other side effects and get the thoracentesis done next tuesday she will feel better. She cannot talk right now, but she is texting : )

God Bless you all!!!

Mom is okay

2011-06-22T16:58:00.000-05:00

Its been a rough week, but she is doing alright. She is extremely fatigued and weak, but she is moving around a little and she is eating. Fever has gone down and she is still taking antibiotics. Keep praying and stay positive! She will get through this!! God will save her and she will fully recover! I know she will!!!

Cadillac Bar Fundraiser on June 16, 2011

2011-06-20T22:44:00.001-05:00

Click on picture and it will link to photos. Thank you all for your help!

Still Day 3 after chemo

2011-06-20T22:39:00.000-05:00

Well, she is feeling better after spending the afternoon at CTRC. Her slight fever was an indication of having an infection so they wanted her to come in and do pathology on her white blood cell count. It was a bit high so they gave her antibiotics. We have to wait till thursday to do another thoracentesis because the last resident learning doctor messed up (I think thats why she has the infection. That with the chemo killing good cells and cancer cells together her body's immune system is low to heal from that doctor poking her over and over and messing up).
Anyway, she ate well this afternoon and evening and will hopefully feel better tomorrow. She is really fatigued and can't really talk much, but she is strong and will get better!!!

Our prayers are with her! God bless!

Day 3 after chemo

2011-06-20T12:22:00.000-05:00

Well, last night she had a bit of a fever, but it went down after taking some ibuprofen. She is not eating well and taking in less than 800 calories. She is very tired and not feeling well. Hopefully her spirits will lift soon. She is having a hard time breathing because she needs to have another thoracentesis done. The last one didn't go well and the resident doctor hardly took any fluid out. He also messed up the fluid specimen so the pathology lab couldn't use any of it for the genetic coding and molecular typing.
The fluid build up is most likely what is making her the most uncomfortable and a little feverish. She has not been nauseous yet and hopefully she won't get it. : )
I will post more tonight.
God Bless you all!!!!

Help Cindy S. Hudson Fight Cancer!

Jeff Markin: Back from the Dead, Reborn Into the Light

God's message is clear and understood. Thank you.

New Information on ALK resistant NSCLC

New Research in Resistance to Xalkori (crizotinib) for ALK-driven NSCLC

The History of Cancer

Prostate Cancer Found in Egyptian Mummy

Ups and downs, ups and downs... but always end up : )

Damn You, Cancer | Owning Pink

Exhausted.

Attorney fights for clients as she battles cancer

4th line treatment.... We have a great doctor.

Cindy Sue Hudson's Cancer Fighters

Help Cindy S. Hudson Fight Cancer!

We often ask Why?

Today was tough, but mom is hanging in there and waiting for a cure

Long day today and still here at the START center.

This week has been okay...

Happy New Year to All from Cindy Hudson

Electrocardiogram use in Cancer research

Appointment was good today and went well.

A new diagnostic technique. It’s called EBUS (endobronchial ultrasound)

Inspire.com an invaluable resource for Cancer patients and their loved ones.

Still doing alright.

Dr's appointment today was good. Not much to report on the clinical trial drug

Happy New Year!

Healing Saint Peregrine of cancer healing

Healing Prayer for Those with Respiratory Ailments

Prayer to Saint Bernadine for those who suffer with respiratory ailments

Clinical Trial Drug is ASP-3026

All day at the START center and still there....

Merry Christmas!!

Understanding Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase

Information on Alimta in regards to the ALK mutation.

Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Gene Rearrangements in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer are Associated with Prolonged Progression-Free Survival on Pemetrexed

Camidge, D. Ross MD, PhD*; Kono, Scott A. DO*; Lu, Xian PhD†; Okuyama, Sonia MD*; Barón, Anna E. PhD†; Oton, Ana B. MD*; Davies, Angela M. MD*; Varella-Garcia, Marileila PhD*‡; Franklin, Wilbur MD‡; Doebele, Robert C. MD, PhD*

Abstract

Yes!! Mom is in at the START Center for Cancer Care!!

Info on cancer hospitals.

Rapid targeted mutational analysis of human tumours: a clinical platform to guide personalized cancer medicine.

Rapid targeted mutational analysis of human tumours: a clinical platform to guide personalized cancer medicine.

Source

Abstract

Comment in

We need a complete molecular test of mom's cancer!!! I hope we can get one soon!

Today was interesting.. discouraging and encouraging.

Made some headway today.

Tomorrow I will ask if they did a complete genetic profile on mom.

Tumors In Majority Of Patients With Advanced Lung Cancer Found To Have Genetic Mutations That Can Be Treated With Targeted Therapies

IP6 and Inositol- Information from the American Cancer Society website

Inositol Hexaphosphate

Description

Overview

How is it promoted for use?

What does it involve?

What is the history behind it?

What is the evidence?

Are there any possible problems or complications?

Mom had a good weekend!

Option Tarceva

Possible Benefits of Tarceva

Related Links

Tarceva may offer convenience

Not so good

Cindy had a girls weekend! Very cool!

More info on the Avastin chemo drug-This is the news release from the FDA

News about Avastin- Mom took the Avastin for the 6 rounds of chemo

FYI on clinical studies and survival rate. Believe she is healing!

Effect of crizotinib on overall survival in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer harbouring ALK gene rearrangement: a retrospective analysis

Summary

Background

Methods

Findings

Interpretation

Funding

Crizotinib Approval For Lung Cancer Shows Our Miracles Aren't Getting Less Expensive

An excerpt from someone who's mother has taken crizotinib

Mom's update. No results just yet on new drug. Give it some time and keep praying.

More on Crizotinib

Information on Mom's positive test for the ALK gene mutation of her cancer

Camidge, D. Ross MD, PhD; Kono, Scott A. DO; Lu, Xian PhD†; Okuyama, Sonia MD; Barón, Anna E. PhD†; Oton, Ana B. MD; Davies, Angela M. MD; Varella-Garcia, Marileila PhD‡; Franklin, Wilbur MD‡; Doebele, Robert C. MD, PhD*