This is a short note to let my readers know that the drug that has the best chance of making a dent in this spine tumor, Cabozantinib, arrives via overnight shipping tomorrow! I will begin taking a 60mg daily dose of this powerful drug and we’re hoping that it will begin to kill the tumor in my spine and pave the way for me to be able to get better. Whether or not, a smaller tumor would make it possible for another spine surgery to remove the screw from the tumor and restabilize my spine, is still up in the air. We will likely go soon to University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas for a surgical/radiation consultation, so that they’ll be onboard with my case in the event surgery/radiation becomes a viable option.
I know that there are side effects with all of these drugs and this is one I haven’t taken before, so like we’ve done so many times before, we’ll be Star Trekking it. Going boldly where we’ve never been before. Based on my research, the combination of this promising drug, Cabozantinib, and a solid surgical/radiation plan will provide our best hope for me to return to health. I have purposefully avoided the list of side effects of this drug. I’m sure it’s not pretty. Please bear with me in the upcoming days and weeks. I’m sure there’ll be some physical changes like hair color and weight loss. I’m sure there’ll be some GI issues, too, so don’t stand too close. I may throw up on your shoes.
We are thankful that Dr. Pippas was able to make my case with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama and we’re getting a shot at this drug. It has shown remarkable results in a lot of folks with kidney cancer. While I’m being thankful, let me say again how much Jill and I and our family appreciate all the love, cards, encouragement and concern as we embark on yet another chapter in a our lives, living with cancer.
A prayer answered.
Thank you Lord for answering our prayers for a quick delivery of the needed drug. Stay strong and steady Mike and no matter what is ahead, we love you just the way you are.
Prayers that it will begin to work as planned RIGHT AWAY and little or no side effects will take place. We with you Mike and Jill !
So thankful for a loving God who hears our prayers. I’m so happy that you are able to take this drug and I’m praying for great results with as little side effects as possible.
Hurray for Dr. Pippas! A real patient advocate! Continued prayers for you!
Very promising!! Prayers always!
Love,
Cindy and Pierce Hodnette
I’m so thankful for this answer to many prayers!!! God is so good! Now praying that this new drug goes right to work with as few side effects as possible. Stay strong Mike and Jill!
God will be with you every step of the way and so will your prayer warriors!!! Love you both❤️❤️
Prayers for you, friend!
We love you and wish you safe travels and good consultations in Texas.
Prayers answered! So glad you were able to get this drug! You take care of yourself and I pray you will have the needed procedure/surgery to make your spine strong again. Prayers this will be the end of cancer problems for you. God’s going to take care of you! Love to you and Jill.
Mike, thank goodness, and the good Lord, that you have found not only a promising drug, but that you are starting using it tomorrow!! First step on the road to your latest recovery! By the way, your friends could give a rip if you’re fat or thin…bald or buff…you are one beautiful human being inside and out!! You’re #1 on my Prayer List. Take care! Love to you and my sweet friend, Jill!!
Bob and I are praying for you and you and Jill are with us in our daily thoughts. Look forward to seeing you at TOTY….You must be there! You are an awesome judge!
Carole Rutland and Bob Offer
Live long and Prosper.
G- d is great and Pippis is not far behind!
Love,
Susan & Michael
Wonderful news!!!!
Go get it Mike! This is the first step in your victory!
Prayers you get good results with minimal side effects.
Yes! PTL!!
Praying for the dffectiveness of this medication and for minimal – or NO – unpleasant side effects.Ephesians 3:20
Praying for you and Jill.
First hurdle: Cleared. Joining with so many who are praying you over the other ones that come your way as you head back to good health.
Peace and prayers,
Judy and Mick
God’s speed and prayers be with you
So much love and so many prayers for you, Jill and your family. Get out there and whip this! You know you can!
Praying for minimal side effects and great results.
I hope the side effects are light and you hardly notice any difference. This is your miracle drug. Mike, I am only thinking positive thoughts and prayers daily for you and Jill. When you are available here in town, let me know. I need a bear hug from you. Mike, you will conquer this….you will be healthy again. Love you, my dear friend.
Mary Lou Marth
I hope Cabozantinib is as good to you as Nivolumab has been to me. I count my lucky stars every day. Thinking of you and pulling for you!!!
You are always in my prayers. You both looked so good last Wednesday night, and I am glad I got to hug you both…it was from my heart to yours. God bless you both. So glad He provided the drug for you. He will be with you every step of the way.
Love, jo