Amazing, but I'm actually getting stronger and feeling better despite no treatment. About 2 months ago I told my oncologist I wanted to stop the chemo for a while because a)it was making me sick and very, very tired, and b) the tumor was still growing even on pretty high dose therapy.
I just wanted a break and planned to either continue or let the docs find another regimen during my break. I did not expect to get stronger, but now I get out of the wheelchair at least twice a day and walk with assistance about 20 ft laps for exercise.
All of this progress without medical or surgical intervention. Maybe it won't last, but right now, I'm very happy. I thank all those who prayed for me including all of you in the hornfan nation.
I wouldn't be surprised if they find a new cancer regimen for you. There are some pretty good tyrosine kinase inhibitors for glioblastoma in clinical trials. Also there is an anti-angiogenesis antibody and a mitotic/tubulin and histone deacetylase inhibitor. I assume that you have already been on a Thalidomide/Thalidomide derivative. If you are interested on reading up on drugs in development, probably the best place to go is PhrmaThe Link to see what is out there and then clinicaltrials.gov to find out more about the trials. I have a close friend who is a Stanford MD/PhD who consults on drug development and if there is a particular drug that you are going to be placed on, he might be able to provide me with some insight into its effectiveness as he sometimes puts together and summarizes expert panels.
WildBill, hadn't lurked here in a while, so I just saw this. Wanted to let you know I am keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Cancer took away two relatives who were very near and dear to me way too soon before their time. I really sympathize with your family and lift you all up during this time. Stay strong.
you are amazing.
i could only hope to be as brave and courageous as you were i to ever face death head on like you have all this time. your unbreakable spirit is keeping you alive and inspiring all who know you, even us here on the ol' internet.
I just turned 40 yesterday, but it was bitter/sweet. It was a happy/sad day...I felt like I was "getting older", but still loving life. Then I was faced with some mortality when another family member of mine finally succumbed to Alzheimer's.
Wild Bill, we've got your back, my friend. Keep fighting the good fight. We'll keep cheering you on! God bless you as you continue to show this dreaded disease the double-middle finger.
I have been following this thread for some time. But I couldn't figure out what I wanted to say. I guess that is just me. So I finally decided to do a simple, always-approptiate, filled with respect and hope and love:
HOOK 'EM HORNS
Wild Bill, You and your family are in my prayers. Know that fighting to stay with him as long as possible, will make an impression on your son, and having his Mom and sisters already strong, will also help him. It only takes one positive influence to make the world feel like a safe place and it sounds like your son has at least four. Hugs in your general direction
Still out there, Bill? If so, your dignity and courage are inspiring. If not, but by some cosmic mystery you are aware of this, know that we noticed you weren't here anymore.
Godspeed, Wild Bill.
A 17 year battle is one hell of a fight. I expressed my condolences for the family and friends in the other thread, but I can't stop thinking about the youngest son and how Bill said they were so close. I lost both my parents when I was eleven and then my only son who was also my best friend, was taken from me over a year ago, so I can relate. My thoughts and prayers are especially for Bill's son.
WB,
I can't believe I've never read this post before. Stay strong and stay on.
Prayers for you , we open Friday on the road against one of our rivals. (I am a coach) You will be the team prayer.
DC Head Coach 'Fighting Tigers'