Monday, December 21, 2009

Chemo 12-21-09

As Frank Sinatra would sing 'Nice and Easy Does It"

Had the chemo with absolutely NO issues.

Only different thing is that Danny and myself were both there at the same tme. He did not have chemo, just his doctor visit that was GOOD. He will continue on tomorrow.

Sorry (or GLAD) for the somewhat boring post.

MERRY CHRISTMAS.

Dan & Patricia

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Amazing Story 12-17-09

I was in a store in Harrisburg PA called The Catholic Shop.
I was looking at auto visor clips of St Christopher, Sacred Heart etc, when an elderly lady comes up beside me, also looking at clips.
She suddenly grabs my arm, asks me for my first name and after I told her she said "I don't know what your issue is, but I will pray for you Daniel"
I then told her my and my son's issues and she hugged me and repeated that she will pray for us.

God does work in different ways.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Doctor Visit 12-16-09

We met with Dr Jiang today.
My echocardiogram was good, no signs of any heart problems.
My CTScan was also good. The growth in the esophagus is about the same, no bigger and no smaller. I guess I'll take that.
The good news was that the lymph nodes are "tiny" to quote the good doctor.
I will start the chemo regimen again on Monday. Both the direct infusion and the pills.

All in all a pretty good meeting.

Just came back from the community room at our local Giant Supermarket where the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society was meeting to plan next year's fundraising and events.
The keynote speaker was Danny and he did a GREAT job. I was crying!!!

Merry Christmas to ALL

Dan & Patricia

Thursday, December 3, 2009

News on Danny

Dan's doctor said today that things look GOOD. His biopsy came back clean and he is on to stage 4 of his treatment. Could not have received a better outlook. He also thanked Dan for being a great patient and being educated.

Peace & Love to ALL

Dan

Monday, November 30, 2009

All will be well5K for Danny

Thank you to everyone who turned out to participate, volunteer or just be there.
The turnout and support could not have been better.
As the father involved, I still have tears in my eyes.

God Bless ALL.

Dan

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Latest Update

I have been on the chemo pills instead of the pump (box) for 3 weeks.
I had a blood test yesterday and a doctor visit and was scheduled for my 4 to 4 1/2 hour infusion. The doc did not like my blood numbers and the multiple side effects from the pills (weeping eyes, runny nose, no strength, exhausted and out of breath with the least little bit of exertion) so she is giving me a 3 week break until I see her again. She will decide then when to resume therapy. I am somewhat happy that chemo was canceled because I was afraid of being nauseous and a recurrence of the hiccups for this weekend, too much going on what with Thanksgiving, the annual Black Friday movie outing with the trunk o' candy and most importantly, the 5k for Danny on Saturday.

I am scheduled for an echo cardiogram and a CT Scan on Wednesday so she can see what is going on inside of me (I have been trying to figure that out for years).

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL

PS: attached is the link to the channel 27 news story on the Dan Lyons'

http://www.whtm.com/news/stories/1109/681432.html

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Resumed Chemo

Started the pills (no Box = HOORAY).
Also had my scheduled 4+ hours of other chemo on Thursday 11/5/09.
All went relatively well except the next two days (Friday and Saturday) I was nauseous and had hiccups most of the time. I am expecting that this is all do to not having the scheduled 4+ hrs of chemo for 6 weeks and starting to add a new drug into the mix.

Anything is better than having to wear the pump/box 24/7.

Thanks for all of the thoughts and prayers.

November 28 at Trinity High School in Camp Hill is the 5K run/walk for Danny.
http://danlyonsall.blogspot.com

If anyone can support in anyway - GOD BLESS YOU

Dan

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

CT Scan 11/03/09

Went to HMC for a CT Scan today. Drank the half gallon of the 'stuff' to make my insides show up.
Was finally called and they tried "5" times (twice in the right arm, once in the left arm and twice in the back of my left hand) to put an IV in my veins without success. They said that they could not use the port in my chest. I was sent to the main hospital where I was told they could access the port.
After one half hour there a nurse came by and said that they could not access the port and she would put an IV in my vein.

So I left....

Will discuss with the doctor during tomorrow's visit.

Not a fun night.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

E Mail from Joe

Friends and Well-Wishers,
It's your old friend Joe Lyons. Some of you already know about what's going on with my family, others I have not talked to in far, far too long (How are you? I'm fine!). Some of these email addresses are undoubtedly invalid and some of you are getting this email probably 2 or 3 times. You'll have to forgive me. It was a lot easier to add all of my non-family email addresses at once, than it was trying to type them all individually. So please don't hold it against me if you see this email pop up in your life more often than the one from the King of Nigeria and his exciting business proposition...oh and, take it from me, that guy is full of it.
Anyway, to the matter at hand. This year, cancer has reared it's ugly, unwelcome head into my family twice. First, my Dad found out he had esophageal cancer. Then, about 3 months later, my brother, Dan, found out he has Leukemia (the ALL variety to be specific). So, needless to say, it's been an emotionally exhausting year. But if cancer had it's choice of fights to pick, it definately made two very wrong decisions. Both Dad and Dan have been kicking so much ass, that not a day goes by that I don't stand there in amazement at the sheer strength and will power they have in them. Although they may be losing weight and hair, they have never been bigger in my eyes. I am impressed, humbled, and honored that I get to be related to them. Dad's tumor is already shrinking in terror and Dan is already entering Stage 3 of a very long and strenuous treatment with a ferocity of a Viking riding into battle on the back of a Begal tiger...which is to say, he's doing really well. I couldn't be prouder of them.
So here's where you, dear friends, come in. The Saturday after Thanksgiving (11/28/09), me and brother's old high school in Harrisburg, PA is holding a 5K for Dan. Here's the website:
This benefit run for Dan kicks off at 9:30am and will feature a 5k run, a 5k walk and a fun run for kids. There will be raffles and the National Marrow Registry will be there for anyone interested in signing themselves up to be marrow donors. It's easy and it's a chance for you to help give someone else their lives back.
Now I know what you're thinking, "Joe, it's the Saturday after Thanksgiving! I'll be more turkey than human at that point!" Well, first of all, you need some better portion control. Second of all, I can't think of a better way to liberate yourself from all of that turkey-weight! It'll be a great excuse to be outside with friends and family and it'll help put you on the road to recovery as far as your pants size goes...and there will be t-shirts! I've attached a registration form to this email.
A lot of you, obviously, won't be anywhere near the Harrisburg area on 11/28, so please, if you're able, send along a donation for any amount. You can do so by filling out the aforementioned registration form. Just check the "Making a Flat Donation" line. Every little bit helps and I can't tell you how much of a difference it's going to make in my brother's life. Hate stamps and just plain don't trust the US Postal Service? Then get your donation to me and I'll make sure every cent of it gets to Harrisburg on 11/28.
Words won't be able to express my gratitude for anyone who is able to attend or donate. If you're not able to do either, than please send all of your thoughts, prayers, and good mojo my family's way and you'll still have all of my eternal gratitude. Also, if you know folks who may be interested, please forward this along, post it on your Facebook page, rent out ad space on the side of a bus...you get the idea.
Well, sorry for the long email. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your time. I hope this message finds you well and I look forward to talking to all of you soon. If you have any more questions about the 5K or anything in general, then just drop me a line.
Thanks again!
Joe Lyons

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Update On The Chemo Pills

Thanks to thoughts and prayers and phone calls from ONE TERRIFIC WIFE - the pills are now going to be FREE for one year!!!!!

I can not believe that these will have any worse side effects than the pump, PLUS the pump was bringing me down emotionally and mentally with the whole treatment.


THANKS and LOVE to All

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

HMC 10/14/09

Doctor Jiang decided that I need three weeks of no chemo.
So I am done until 11/04/09.
They are also figuring on no pump once I resume treatment.

I am off to South Bend on Friday with Joe for the ND vs USC game...

Thursday, October 8, 2009

New News on the Pill

The cost has come down to about 25% of the original cost. So the pill is once again being considered.

Keep the thoughts and prayers coming for myself and Danny.....

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Possibility of replacing the 'PUMP"

We have been in discussions with HMC and our doctor about replacing the pump that hangs off of my shoulder and is attached with a needle into the port which is implanted in my chest.

The doctor finally agreed and we filled out some paperwork and the bottom line was okay.
The c0-pay for this pill is $2500.00 a month - SO I am staying on the pump.

Keep those thoughts and prayers coming, We love you ALL.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

HMC 9 24 09

Sorry for the lack of posts. Nothing has been new or exciting. I received my chemo and the chemo pump has been reestablished. My position at EDS did not work out. I was having trouble leaving the windows world and entering the Sun Solarlis Operating System. The company hated Windows and Microsoft, which is where I had a comfort zone. Needing a day off every three weeks to visit Hershey Cancer Clinic is making it hard to find a regular full time position, I need to redefine what I am looking for I guess.

Some good news is that on 10/15/09 the pump will be removed and I will be given pills to replace the 5FU chemo in the pump.

Thanks for the thoughts and Prayers


Dan

Saturday, September 19, 2009

5K run / walk for Danny

http://www.allwillbewell5k.com/Home.html

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Hershey 9/16/09

Went for chemo and sat there for one hour and twenty minutes past my scheduled time only to be told that they were sending me home because my blood counts were not up to par.

They scheduled me for 9Am next Wed the 23rd but these next two weeks are REALLY important for the position I have at Sun/EDS/HP. I am asking them to push the chemo back until after my training when my schedule is 3PM to 11:30 PM.

We shall see.


Thanks for all of the thoughts and prayers.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Hershey 8/19/09

Add Image
We were sent home without chemo because my blood count was low and I was anemic.
The pump was removed until 9/16/09 (HOORAY). The lymph nodes appear to be getting better. The two near the throat are hardly noticeable.
More good news is that the new employer (EDS / HP) is working with me to make my appointments. Since I have only been there 9 days, I am really impressed with their attitude.

Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers.

Peace and Love
Dan

Monday, August 10, 2009

August 10, 2009 - EDS -

Well with the pump hanging over my shoulder and with doctor's appointments already scheduled during the next 8 weeks, EDS officially brought me on board today. management said they would work with me and help me catch up on training for the days I miss.

Felt weird but good getting up and getting dressed for work this AM.

Thanks Everyone

Dan

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

THIS IS FROM DANNY'S BLOG. He is doing BETTER

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

REMISSION!!!

Holy cow! I feel abou 10 pounds lighter (which, incidentally, is not a good thing right now)

I just received the call with my biopsy results and found out that I am officially in remission.....my blast cells were less than 5% and I can officially move on to phase 2 of the treatment WHEW!!!

So we were able to take down this cancer from 97% all the way to about 3%.....not too shabby, and that 3% had better watch out.

Words cannot express how much I appreciate the love, prayers, and support from everybody reading this and everybody in my life. It has been inspirational to hear from so many loved ones that have been with me through this journey.

This was Evan's fortune cookie from lunch today: "There are 3 colors, 10 digits, and 7 notes, it's what you do with them that matters". Not sure how that applies, but it seemed really profound.

ALL will be very very well

Thursday, July 30, 2009

My Hero

I can not mention enough how my baby ( Danny) is my hero in how he is facing what is being thrown at him. And he is now engaged to one of the most wonderful people in the World from a tremendous family.
I could not be HAPPIER.
Hanna & Dan - I love You

From Danny's Blog

One other thing I want to mention just because it has been on my mind lately is the bone marrow transplant registry. I will write more later because I do not have tons of details but I think there are popular misconceptions about this procedure. It is almost always non-evasive and not too different than donating blood. A donor goes to an inpatient center and they draw his/her blood for about 4 hours, filter out some stem cells, and filter back in the rest of his/her blood. The stem cells are then used to infuse the cancer patient and those cells hopefully take over the marrow and create a whole new immune and blood system. It is not painful and relatively easy and saves tons of lives. This is something I never knew but hope to become more involved with. You can learn more at www.marrow.org

HMC July 30. 2009

Had a pretty uneventful day of chemo. They also reattached my 24/7 pump (not happy with that ) which I suppose is doing it's job, so what will be will be.

I received a phone call from EDS telling me that my start date is August 10, 2009. I need to rearrange some HMC appointments to coincide with my orientation/ training period.

NOW THE BIG NEWS - Danny and Hanna are ENGAGED. He popped the question today and I am not aware of an exact date other than next summer.

Peace n' Love to all

Thursday, July 23, 2009

HMC Visit on July 22, 2009

We had a long day scheduled. My Dr's visit was scheduled for 9AM and they took blood for labwork first. We were done with the doctor by 9:45AM. We went to the infusion center (where I get 2 different chemo drugs) to try and push up our 2:00PM appointment. We were told that wasn't possible. We went to the Hershey Outlets to kill some time. At Noon, the secretary from the infusion center called and asked that we report back as soon as we could.

The lab results from my blood work were not favorable. My white blood cell count was at 0.7 which means that they can not administer the chemo. We were sent home and rescheduled for next Thursday the 30th.

So, I need to avoid large crowds and gatherings until my blood count is higher (at least 1.2) because my immune system is very vulnerable until then.

Good News is that they also had my pump removed until things straighten out. I can shower again, which I am sure EVERYONE appreciates.

Monday, July 20, 2009

From Danny's Blog

Friday was also an uplifting day that I want to mention. I spent the day with Mom, Dad, Grandmom, Aunt Ann, Alexis, Kelsey, Hanna Jo, Colin, Evan, Mrs. Gabler, John Hand and little Max at my parents house. It was great to be surrounded by friends and family. And there was great love, great support, great food, and great hugs from all of them.


Friday was as uplifting for myself as well, just insert Danny in place of Dad

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Good News

Away from the "c" word.
I have been offered a position to work for EDS. It will start in mid August.
Things are looking up!!!

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Chemo on 7/3/09

I had my chemo session at HMC CC today and they informed the home nursing group to hook up the pump. So my box is reattached.

The good news is that a good friend (Mike Edmiston) spent the day with me and we talked about Gettysburg among other things. We basically discussed the battle in July 1863 and exchanged ideas, maps, books and dvd's. I thank him for sticking out the entire 5 hour stay and also relieving Patricia for having to spend yet another one of her days with one of her two Dans.

Better days will be coming.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

GREAT DAY 6/24/09

I had a CT scan on 6/22/09 and visited my oncologist today.
The mass in the esophagus is 'significantly' smaller and the 2 lymph nodes in the collar bone are;
1. gone
and
2. much smaller.
The doctor canceled my chemo today and rescheduled for next week and she is allowing me to have my 24/7 pump disconnected for a week.

This may not sound significant BUT I can shower again once I am disconnected Thursday afternoon!!!

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Danny is Out of the Hospital

Danny was discharged, but he does have an aggressive schedule and will be traveling to HMC Cancer Clinic (HMC CC) quite often. He has a long and sometimes strenuous trek ahead of him so PLEASE don't stop the PRAYERS.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Danny 6/17/09

Well Danny is in Hershey. He had a spinal tap which returned good results. He started chemo on Tuesday evening. His regimen is pretty severe, so we are not clear on his duration in Hershey.

Keep the prayers coming.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Danny is heading back to Hershey 6/15/09

Danny got the phone call around 10Am to report back to the Cancer Clinic. We don't know the exact duration of his stay, but attached is his Clinical Trial Regimen.


Friday, June 12, 2009

More on Danny

Danny's diagnosis is Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

HMC sent him home on Wednesday afternoon after he received his 8th unit of blood. His numbers were good and they had nothing else scheduled until Sunday. He is required to visit the facility for blood work on Thursday (good numbers), Friday and Saturday. He will be readmitted on Sunday when they have a Spinal Tap scheduled. His Chemotherapy will start either Sunday or Monday at this point. We don't know the regimen he is scheduled for or how long he will be in Hershey. Will keep everyone informed.

Love to all from ALL of us.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Setback on 6/8/09

We had quite an emotional and mental setback on June 8th.
Our youngest son Danny (28) was diagnosed with leukemia.
The exact type and the treatment is waiting on the results from the bone marrow biopsy that was done today (6/9/09).

I will inform all here what we learn tomorrow.

PLEASE redirect ALL of your thoughts and PRAYERS to Danny.

Love to ALL

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Hershey Cancer Clinic 6/3/09

We went for blood work, oncologist visit and chemo today. Place was packed due to the oncologists being away for a Cancer Meeting to learn and share new concepts in treatment. We were still home when we expected to be, so no big deal.

Everything went fine. Dr Jiang, my oncologist, was really happy to hear that I was eating and only lost 2 pounds since we last saw her.

She scheduled a CT Scan for June 22nd so that she can SEE the progress being made with Prayers and chemo when we see her again on June 24th.

My next step is on June 9th when I go there to learn about patient rights and to basically draft a legally binding Living Will.


Seems like everything is ahead of if not on schedule.
THANKS for the Thoughts and Prayers.
Dan

Monday, June 1, 2009

6/1/09 New Development

Starting yesterday one of the 'setbacks' of chemotherapy started to set in - hair loss.
I was shedding constantly, so I went to the barber shop. See below.

Thanks for ALL of the Thoughts and Prayers
Peace & Love

Dan

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Good Things Continue 5/28/09

I have been eating (although a little at a time) and pretty much sleeping through the night since Memorial Day (Thanks Dad M.). Things seem to be on the upswing but PLEASE don't stop the thoughts and prayers.

Dan

Monday, May 25, 2009

Promising turn of things 5/25/09

We went to the movies today and I was feeling really positive so I ate some (half) of Pat's popcorn with NO PROBLEM. When we arrived home our son (Danny) was at the house. After watching the Phillies for a little, we went to an Irish restaurant and I ATE soft shell crabs with no issues. Today was the first day since March that I ate solid foods with no problems. I assume that the combination of all of the prayers being sent my way added to the chemotherapy has started shrinking the "beast".

THANKS to ALL

Friday, May 22, 2009

Home Nurse Visit 5/21/09

The nurse replaced my dressings and the needle that is inserted into the port that is under the skin in the right side of my chest. The port area is still tender from last weeks surgery to implant it, so it hurt like hell for a few seconds. At least this week the blood started to flow right away and we didn't have to resort to any tricks like reclining, turning my head, raising my right arm over my head and deep breathing.

Thanks to EVERYONE for the support and prayers..

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

May 19, 2009 Echo Cardiogram

A little bit of good news. The test went off without any problems.


The GOOD NEWS is that - YES - I HAVE A HEART.


God Bless All

Friday, May 15, 2009

May 14 2009 - Chemotherapy Started

All went relatively smooth.
We arrived at HMC at 8:45 Am.
Called in for blood work by 9: AM. The nurse there was the first to access the port that is implanted in my chest. She had a little bit of a problem getting blood to flow through the port.
However I was not the first with this issue and she had a few tricks up her sleeve. She reclined my chair, had me turn my head to the left and raise my right hand over my head. She got blood.

We saw an oncologist by 9:15 AM - nothing new there except a couple of prescriptions for anti nausea medications, which we had filled at the pharmacy right there in the Physicians building.

We headed to the infusion center where I was hooked up to an IV, once again through the chest port. Received two of the chemo drugs there and we left at 3:15 PM. It took so long because one of the drugs (cisplatin) can affect the kidneys, so there were hours of receiving glucose and saline to flush my kidneys both before and after receiving chemo.

The third drug (5-FU (fluorouracil) is being administered through a pump attached to the port.
This was hooked up by a nurse working for Horizon Home Care. She also used to work at the infusion center at HMC. She had a bit of a problem with seeing blood through the port, also, so we explained what we did in the morning and she added that I take deep breaths. She got blood.
Then she introduced us to my new friend that will be attached 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. The only time it isn't hooked up is once a week when the nurse comes to the house to replace the drug cartridge and the needle in the port.

Here is a picture of my little friend;

It has a belt loop and a loop that can be put over your shoulder (man bag style) or put around your waist (fanny pack style). The jury is still out on how it will be worn.

I would like to say here that ALL of the employees (nurses, doctors, surgeons, etc..) at HMC and now Horizon have been WONDERFUL. They are all pleasant, genuine and they care about you as an individual.

Peace and Love to all
Dan

Monday, May 11, 2009

Meda-Port (Mediport) Installation

All went fine today. It took a little longer that expected but all went well.
Below is a picure of what was inserted in my upper right chest.



Thursday, May 7, 2009

How I will receive treatment (thanks to Veronica Lavanga for this info)

How treatment is given

Your chemotherapy treatment can be given to you as a day patient or during a short stay in hospital. The treatment is then continued at home. Before you start treatment you will need to have a blood test on the same day, or a few days beforehand. You will also be seen by a doctor, specialist nurse or pharmacist. If the results of your blood test are normal, the pharmacy will prepare your chemotherapy drugs. All of this may take a couple of hours.

Most people who have ECF will have their chemotherapy given through a thin plastic tube which is inserted under the skin into a vein near the collarbone (central line), or passed through a vein in the arm (PICC line). Your doctor or nurse will explain more about this to you.

You will be given an anti-sickness (anti-emetic) drug, either as tablets or by injection through your central line or PICC line. The chemotherapy drugs are then given separately:

  • epirubicin (a red fluid) is given as an injection along with a drip of salt water (saline) into the line. It may sometimes be given as a drip
  • after this you will be given cisplatin (a colourless fluid) which is given as a drip (infusion).

Before and after treatment with cisplatin, you will be given plenty of fluid through your drip to keep your kidneys working normally. This may mean that you will need to stay in hospital overnight.

Once your drip is finished you will start treatment with 5FU, which is usually given through a small portable pump. The pump is used to give a controlled amount of the drug into your bloodstream over a set period of time. There are several different sorts of pump, though all are small enough to be carried in a belt or holster so that you can continue doing the things you normally do.

Once the pump is connected to your line, you can go home with it. Before you go you should be given instructions on how to look after the pump. Your nurse should explain how to care for it and what to do if something goes wrong.

When the infusion is finished there may be some fluid left in the pump. This may be normal as some types of pump need to be overfilled to get the correct dose. You can check with your nurse or pharmacist whether you have this type of pump.

The 5FU treatment is given continuously over the whole time that you have your chemotherapy. You will need to have the drug reservoir or the entire pump replaced as it empties, usually on a weekly basis. This may be done at the hospital or you may be taught to change the pump yourself. Otherwise, arrangements may be made for a district nurse to come to your home to change the pump.

When you go home you will be given a supply of anti-sickness tablets to take with you. You should take these regularly if you have been told to do so, even if you are not feeling sick. This is because some medicines are much more effective at preventing sickness than stopping it once it has started. However, the 5FU in the pump is very unlikely to make you feel sick and it is unlikely that you will need anti-sickness medicines for more than a few days after your visit to the hospital.

If you do not have a central line or PICC line, 5FU can be given to you as a drip into your arm (through a small tube known as a cannula which is inserted into a vein in your arm). This is given over a shorter period, often for four days every three weeks. You will need to stay in hospital for the four days of treatment.

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Hershey Medical Center Visit 5/5/09

Went for blood work and a CT Scan and was scheduled for an echo cardiogram but that was postponed. I do not have any results but these were just benchmarks for the start of chemotherapy next week. A good thing is that I have maintained my weight since the last visit.
The Clinical Trial that we were going for was closed on Friday, they met the limit of participants world wide. This is probably a good thing since the oncologist told us today that I will receive basically the same drugs that the Trial was going to use. Not being in the Trial will also cut down on trips to Hershey (35 minutes each way).

I am going on Monday the 11th for the mediport installation. When I start chemo on the 14th, I will come home wearing a pump that will inject drugs 24/7. I wear it for three (3) weeks and then it is refilled and wear it for three more weeks. They will then CT Scan me again to see the progress.

I will not try to explain the three (3) drugs that will consist of my chemo, I will let Wikipedia do that;

The chemotherapy agent 5-FU (fluorouracil), which has been in use against cancer for about 40 years, acts in several ways, but principally as a thymidylate synthase inhibitor. Interrupting the action of this enzyme blocks synthesis of the pyrimidine thymidine, which is a nucleotide required for DNA replication. Thymidylate synthase methylates deoxyuridine monophoshate (dUMP) into thymidine monophosphate (dTMP).

Like many anti-cancer drugs, 5-FU's effects are felt system wide but fall most heavily upon rapidly dividing cells that make heavy use of their nucleotide synthesis machinery, such as cancer cells (other parts of the body with rapidly dividing cells include the cells lining the digestive tract).

Some of its principal use is in colorectal cancer and pancreatic cancer, in which it has been the established form of chemotherapy for decades (platinum-containing drugs have been approved for human use in the US since 1978 are also very well established).

5-FU is also used in ophthalmic surgery, specifically to augment trabeculectomy (an operation performed to lower the intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma) in patients deemed to be at high risk for failure. 5-FU acts as an anti-scarring agent in this regard, since excessive scarring at the trabeculectomy site is the main cause for failure of the surgery.

Fluorouracil can be used topically (as a cream) for treating actinic (solar) keratoses and some types of basal cell carcinomas of the skin. It is often referred to by its trade names Efudex, Carac or Fluoroplex.

It is a key component in Tegafur-uracil.

Epirubicin is an anthracycline drug used for chemotherapy. It is marketed by Pfizer under the trade name Ellence in the US and Pharmorubicin or Epirubicin "Ebewe" elsewhere.

Similarly to other anthracyclines, epirubicin acts by intercalating DNA strands. Intercalation results in complex formation which inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis. It also triggers DNA cleavage by topoisomerase II, resulting in mechanisms that lead to cell death. Binding to cell membranes and plasma proteins may be involved in the compound's cytotoxic effects. Epirubicin also generates free radicals that cause cell and DNA damage.

Epirubicin is favoured over doxorubicin, the most popular anthracycline, in some chemotherapy regimens as it appears to cause fewer side-effects. Epirubicin has a different spatial orientation of the hydroxyl group at the 4' carbon of the sugar, which may account for its faster elimination and reduced toxicity. Epirubicin is primarily used against breast and ovarian cancer, gastric cancer, lung cancer, and lymphomas.

Cisplatin, cisplatinum or cis-diamminedichloridoplatinum(II) (CDDP) is a platinum-based chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancers, including sarcomas, some carcinomas (e.g. small cell lung cancer, and ovarian cancer), lymphomas and germ cell tumors. It was the first member of its class, which now also includes carboplatin and oxaliplatin. Platinum complexes are formed in cells, which bind and cause crosslinking of DNA; ultimately triggering apoptosis(programmed cell death).


Thanks for all of the THOUGHTS, PRAYERS and LIT CANDLES. Rumor is that Notre Dame had to hire a new fireman for the Grotto based on the number of candles lit there for me...

God Bless All


Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Let's Talk About Something WONDERFUL

This helps me feel better, I am soooo happy!!

Joe, my eldest son and his exceptional fiancee Sarah are heading to Jamaica on May 9 and will be married on May 11th. They will return to Pittsburgh and have the marriage blessed in their church. The priest there has been wonderful in helping them through this decision and logistics.

CONGRATULATIONS JOE & SARAH

Just putting a face to this mess....

It STARTS May 14, 2009

We are scheduled to arrive at HMC at 9:15 Am on the 14th for Lab work and than a consultation and then 8 hours of infusion, which is a combination of chemotherapy drugs.

Thanks for your thoughts and prayers as I must admit, now that it is becoming real, I am a bit worried/scared, BUT we will beat this beast!!!

May 11, 2009 Mediport

I am scheduled to have a Mediport implanted next to my collar bone on May 11th for ease of administering drugs and taking blood samples. Below is a description.

A Mediport® is a device that is implanted under your skin so that medications may be delivered directly into your blood system. The Mediport® is designed for safe, long-term use in your body. It can stay in place permanently if necessary. When not in use, the only care a port requires is flushing once a month with a solution of heparin and saline to prevent blood clots from forming inside the line and causing a blockage.

The round part of the device that can be felt under the skin is called the reservoir. When the port is “accessed”, a special needle is placed through the skin into the reservoir through a plastic membrane called a septum. The raised “septum” is made from a self-sealing rubber, which allows repeated injections into the port so that you do not need to get injected directly into the skin or have an IV (intravenous) line inserted each time you require medication.

You may also hear the terms Port-A-Cath®, Infuse-A-Port®, or other similar terms, these are other products that serve similar functions.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Things are Progressing

Hi Mr. Lyons--Here is your schedule for Tues, 5/5/09.
Nothing to eat or drink starting at 5:15 am (In preparation for CT scan)
9:00 am--Bloodwork; Outpatient Lab, East Campus Location, 30 Hope Drive, Hershey (Map attached--just down the road from the Med Center less than 1/4 mile)
10:00 am--CT; East Campus Location--I will meet you in the CT waiting area to sign clinical trial consent prior to CT
Grab a Snack (There is a Cafe located on 2nd Floor of the University Physician Center.)
12:30 pm--Ste. 400 of University Physician Center--Appt. with Dr. Jiang
1:30 pm--ECHO--1st Floor Main Hospital East Hallway
Please note: Both the labs and the CT are at our East Campus. I've attached a map if you haven't been there yet.
It's probably best to print this and bring it with you the day of screening. If there are any problems while navigating the system, please call the main hospital 531-8521 and ask them to page Renee Kessler at 1735. All orders are faxed to the various depts.
I'm working on lining up your mediport and chemo start date. It's shaping up as:
5/11--Mediport Placement
5/14--Chemo start date
I'll confirm the above two appts. with you once your eligibility for the trial is verified.

Looks Like GOOD News

I received a phone call from the Clinical Research Coordinator telling me that she received everything needed from Holy Spirit Hospital to pre qualify me for the clinical trial. Next step is on May 5th we go to HMC for tests and a visit with the Oncologist.

If all the tests (ct scan, cardiogram, blood work, etc... ) come out positive my name is submitted for the clinical trial. We don't expect any issues with these tests.

Thanks to ALL for your support

Chemotherapy

The regimen and dosage and length of time has yet to be determined.

HOWEVER - I am a prime candidate for a clinical trial. Hershey Medical Center (HMC) is permitted to have 20 patients in this trial. Pat and myself (we from here on), met with the Clinical Research Coordinator running this program for HMC. She spent a good hour with us explaining the entire process. There are three regimens in this trial and once you are accepted, a computer will randomly generate which regimen to which you are assigned.

Because each one is lenghty in description, I will fore go delving into them until I hear if I am accepted and which one the computer assigns.

We received an email today from the Clinical Research Coordinator and she sounds positive and will hopefully get back to us today to start lining up the screening tests for the trial.

Keep the prayers coming, they work in many different ways.

Biopsy Results

Final Cytologic Diagnosis:

Right superclavicular lymph node, fine needle aspiration, direct smears prepared:
Satisfactory for evaluation.
Positive for malignant cells consistent with metastatic adenocarcinoma (a cancer that originates in glandular tissue).


Final Pathologic Diagnosis:

- Poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma.
- High-grade dysplasia (bad formation of cells).

Bottom Line - no surgery will be performed. Chemotherapy will be administered.
See next article - Dan

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Biopsy 4/21/09

It did not take long or hurt.
Good news is that the doctor advised us that the results will be available when we go back on Friday for the oncology consultation.
Possible ( and I mean possible) bad news is the the doctor today said that what he saw was not normal, but that was just his eyeball evaluation.

I am sure that with ALL the support and prayers that I am receiving that ALL will be well!!!

Monday, April 20, 2009

Hershey Letter


Still in a Holding Pattern

Nothing much new. Waiting is about as bad as having this beast.

We (Patricia is ALWAYS part of this journey) head to The Penn State Hershey Medical(Cancer Clinic) Center tomorrow for a biopsy of the lymph nodes that appear to be active near my collar bones (each side of the throat).
We will not have any results until at the earliest Friday, but I expect not until May 1st (more waiting).


Thanks for ALL of your support - It means EVERYTHING

Love - Peace - Health
Dan

Friday, April 17, 2009

Some Good News

I have been informed that the biopsy's taken from inside the esophagus leading down to the 'mass' have come back benign from pathology.

I need to have another biopsy taken on 4/21/09 for the lymph nodes that appear to be active detected near my collar bones. These were found from the PetScan that was performed.

I also have an appointment with an oncologist on 4/24/09 and a feedback on the biopsy on 5/1/09.

Saturday, April 11, 2009

March 2009

I can no longer swallow solid food and liquids 'hurt' being swallowed.

I decided to see a doctor.

The Dr. decided I should have an endoscopy, which is putting a tube down your esophagus and removing any blockage and expanding any sections that are narrowed.

The endoscopy failed as the tube could not pass through the esophagus into my stomach. The doctor (Dr Rengen) took many pictures and biopsy's inside the esophagus.

I was admitted to Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill Pa and stayed there four nights. While I was there I had a CT Scan and a colonoscopy. The Ct (cat) scan indicated that the only problem (cancer) was at the base of the esophagus and was not spreading. The colonoscopy came back with a clean bill of health.

I was referred to The Penn State Hershey Medical Center for more tests.

I had a PetScan and another CTScan as an out patient.

Continuing swallowing problems

The initial episode passed. I occasionally had trouble swallowing. Food seemed to be 'caught' in my chest area but eventually passed and was swallowed.

The Beginning

It all started about three years ago at the ComiCon in Monroeville near Pittsburgh PA.
I sat down to eat a hot dog and after a couple of bites I could not swallow. I ended up in the men's room choking and finally expelling the food.