Game Changer

The results are in and things couldn't look much better. Phil's bone marrow biopsy appeared normal morphologically (regarding the form and structure of the bones) and the flow cytometry studies (the microscopic function) were also normal. His marrow is back to an absolutely normal healthy state!


His PET/CT scan showed a residual 1.3 x 2 cm chest nodule which is barely hyper-metabolic (active), some mild residual scar tissue around the heart with no metabolic activity, scarring in the thoracic vertebra and pelvis with no metabolic activity and no remaining pleural effusions. This is an excellent report! So excellent in fact, that Dr. Kossman referred Phil to Dr. Edward Ball, Bone Marrow Transplant Specialist at UCSD's Moores Cancer Center for a consultation. We saw him and his staff yesterday for an educational and inspiring overview of bone marrow transplantation (BMT) and left with a binder full of information and directions about what our next steps are.


Phil is heading into the very down days of post chemo exhaustion so BMT is not on his front burner at the moment. However, knowing that it is now within the realm of possibility after so many setbacks and complications and so much suffering, I can say on his behalf that we feel a measure of relief and the beginnings of real optimism for a cure. These are VERY difficult words for either of us to say, needless to point out, ideas to think about or entertain. I would appreciate your continued prayers as we negotiate the next steps in this journey.


More details about BMT will be coming in future posts but here are the high points from yesterday's consultation:


1) Phil is definitely a candidate for BMT.


2) Due to continued concern for possible mucor infection, he will remain on his oral antifungal agent throughout the entire process of BMT.


3) The first step involves insurance (of course) and getting all the ducks in a row in order to do the HLA (human leukocyte antigen) testing of his brother's to see if they are a good match. They represent the best chance for an optimal match. From there we will go to the National Bone Marrow Registry.


4) In the meantime, Phil will continue his chemotherapy and is scheduled to begin his next round on September 12th. We have a follow up visit with Dr. Ball in about three weeks and will be doing a lot of reading in the meantime. It feels good if not daunting to be changing gears again.