What We Have Been Waiting To Hear!

Today we went for Steve's monthly follow-up with his oncologist. Good news all around. First, his total protein number has gone done from 10.3 to 7.9, but most importantly the m-spike number is down from 3.8 to 2.6! Both the total protein and m-spike are related. Back in July 2009, Steve's total protein was high (normal 6-8). This is what alerted the doctor to the possibility that Steve had myeloma. So the doctor ordered a special blood test that showed the m-spike and identified the "rouge" monoclonal protein (IGG).

This is the first time we have heard that Steve's cancer is responding to treatment. We are so happy and encouraged. Also, the metastatic bone survey (glorified x-ray) came back good. No new holes! But there is a small change to the T-8 vertebrae; it's showing a slight compression. That would explain some of the pain he has been feeling for several weeks now. The plan is to watch and see what happens and check it in a month, but if it begins to hurt more the doctor will order another x-ray. There is a strong possibility it could fracture and then he would have to have the kyphoplasty procedure done again.

Steve is on day 22 of cycle 2. He will continue on the treatment and hopefully we will continue to see a drop in his numbers. If he continues to do this good, at the end of cycle 4, we will go to UCLA for another stem cell consultation.

We want to thank everyone for their prayers. Please continue to pray, particularly for energy, strength and wisdom and for our friends, Natalie, Hayden and Margaret. Our friend Dale went to be with the Lord on Monday. If you knew him, you would agree he was a wonderful, godly man who always had an encouraging word for you. He will be greatly missed.

Bye for now
Love, Deanna

Day #1 Cycle 2 of MPT Treatment

Steve just started the second cycle of MPT. He should have started last Friday, but because the doctor's office didn't specify we were to call one week before he ended the first cycle we assumed he would have a break between cycles. This is a great reminder that we need to be on top of everything and not leave it up to others. Please pray that the lapse in time will have no negative effects.