So, yesterday was quite a day for us -- a pretty sharp turn in treatment. As Kurt and I have been considering these options, I have had to really re-think my perspective on clinical trials. I don't know how many of you have the same mindset that I do, but I always looked at clinical trials as a sort of long-shot, Hail Mary....the kind of thing you do when all other options have failed or when there are no good options in the regular course of care. I always thought of someone in a clinical trial as someone who was desperate.
I'm learning now that really isn't the case. In Kurt's particular circumstance, he is only eligible because he hasn't had any treatment yet. It's not as if we have tried everything and all we have left is some experimental drug option. That's how I used to think of clinical trials, but in fact, this is really just the first step of the journey. There is no placebo -- they don't do those in cancer trials (could you imagine??). One of the drug cocktail options in the trial is basically what our oncologist would have prescribed anyhow. And, they test Kurt every three weeks, so if it isn't working we can try something else. Kurt is still weighing the options, but I know it has been a real learning experience for me.
Most importantly to me, if Kurt decides on the trial, we will stay at Hopkins with the same doctor. None of that will change, which is great. The facility at Hopkins is just amazing. The nurses there are so wonderful -- you just can't believe what great people they are. We did the chemo class yesterday, and at the end, the nurse teared up, telling all of us in the class that all the nurses are praying for us. If someone has been an oncology nurse for 20 years and is still getting emotional, that's a good nurse. There are so many resources and support services -- it is just a wonderful facility. We are so very fortunate.
4 comments:
Greetings Jennifer,
In my battle, I chose to participate in a clinical trial, which probably had more to do with my recovery than anything except my faith in the Lord. I was mildly apprehensive, but after reflecting on it, I saw it as opportunity to not only help myself, but possibly be of greater value to others. In retrospect, I believe it was the right thing to do.
My 2 Cents
Bill
1 John 5:14
And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us:
Which ever way you decide to go, we are behind you 100%.. Glad you learned more about clinical trials. And as long as they do not do the placebo and Kurt's own doctor also monitors him, we know he will get good care. Joni works with a doctor that is very involved in clinical testing and she will be very glad to hear you have an opportunity to look into that type of care. Keep up the good job of posting for us...
Keep the faith ! ! !
Love, Grannie Channie & Grandpa Vic
You & Kurt have put yourselves in God’s hands from the beginning. I truly believe God is with you and guiding you to the best options. I know what ever you two decide as a treatment plan will be for the best and we are all there for you!
It sounds like Kurt has some really good Doctors and staff looking after him. It sounds like they really care about him. For one who has to sit on the sidelines through this, it’s a comfort to hear Kurt has so much support.
Always there for you!
Love,
Aunt Trink
Jen,
My dad had top-notch care at Johns Hopkins 20 years ago. You are quite fortunate that Kurt is being treated there.
As always, Kat and I keep you both in our prayers.
Drew
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