The Neuro-Oncologist

The Neuro-Oncologist, Dr. A, saw Steve today. She feels we need to try to get insurance approval for a drug that is used to treat pontine gliomas. It is very expensive ($23,000 per infusion) and because we do not have a definite diagnosis, she is not sure insurance will approve the drug.

She showed me the April MRI next to the June MRI and even after three treatments of chemo the swelling and lesions are definitely worse.

Steve cannot take any treatments until the middle of July. Since steroids helped reduce the lesions in March Dr. A is putting Steve on steroids for the next two weeks in an attempt to control the disease - she is ordering weekly blood tests and seeing him weekly to monitor his progress.


Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart....

Maybe Wednesday

Thanks to the kind, thoughful, and amazing Dr. B who has been an advocate for Steve, we have an appointment with a new oncologist for tomorrow (Wednesday). The new oncologist specialises in neuro-oncology and is partner to the head of neuro-oncology at Barrows. She remembers Steve from past tumor boards and has agreed to review his case. Hopefully we will come home with a treatment plan determined and scheduled.

Steve is losing ground. He is weaker than a month ago.

Maybe Tuesday

We got a call at 6:00 pm. They hope to have a treatment plan tomorrow.