So here's the update. After a rough couple of nights in the hospital, she turned around pretty quickly, with sodium levels improving (though not quite normal) and fever resolving. They found a tiny blood clot where the infected port had been so that means she is now on a blood thinner for six weeks. Is also on two different antibiotics. She was asking to leave about 30 minutes after surgery on Sunday, but we prevailed upon her to listen to the doctors so she stayed the night and then got discharged on Monday.
On Tuesday, Dr. Goff made room for her in her busy schedule to see her, which was very nice of her and encouraged Gabrielle a great deal. Got a better handle on pain control (a huge plus), plus got some valued input as to the next step. As it looks now, she is a candidate for another trial at M.D. Anderson involving a class of drugs known as check point inhibitors. We had hoped to get down there this week, but so far that isn't happening. Maybe the following week. Meanwhile, I called the research coordinator for the first trial and asked if she could check to see if she could be considered for that one again, since the infection is better and she is doing better. She seemed interested and said she'd run it by the chief doctor of the study. But so far no word. Hopefully by Monday we'll have some news.
So, we're in a holding pattern. Most likely we'll go back to Houston for one or the other study, but it's a bit of a race against the clock at this point. After all, she hasn't been on any chemo since May 22, and the cancer is acting up worse than a bunch of junior high kids when the teacher leaves the room. We just need to get something on board soon. Conventional treatment here in Seattle is another option, though Dr. Goff said that at this stage, chances of knocking the cancer back are not as good as what may be offered with one of the trials in Houston.
So, we'll know more come Monday. Till then, I will do my best to stay out of the special Fran's chocolates, try and get caught up on the convoluted plot of the Australian soap opera and try and keep my "chinz up" per Cuzz'n Rob's advice. You do the same.
So as the Aussies are inclined to say: G'day, mate! Let's sure hope we have some "g'days" ahead!
Thanks for keeping us informed. Let us know how we can help. Praying for you and the family. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteBless you for posting! I've checking a few times daily - I keep telling myself you have a lot on your plate! I'll be eager to hear what MDA has to suggest about the trial(s.) So glad about Gabrielle's pain being better under control. In the meantime, I keep praying! 🙏😘
ReplyDeleteI think of Gabby almost every hour like clockwork; my sweet friend is so brave and strong and an inspiration to all who meet her. I am thankful that your family's love and God's grace have kept her strong enough to get to Houston for these trials; I have to believe that they will save Gabby and the ones who come after her. Thank you Steve and Daniel for taking care of this wonderful lady I have been lucky enough to meet. Please give Gabby my love from her friend in Maui.
ReplyDelete