Spring Training and Lent …. 2 good reasons to stay focused!

Not only are the Yankees gearing up for the 2010 season, Hap’s doctors are teaming up to determine the best procedure for battling the pelvic mass and compromised lymph nodes.

A couple of weeks ago, Hap went to see a radiation oncologist to discuss the possibilities of radiation to the pelvic mass and surrounding lymph nodes. One concern would be the closeness of the small intestines and the bladder. With encouragement Hap’s doctor agreed to take Hap’s case to the Tumor Board to discuss options. She also wanted us to follow up with a doctor at Sloan, who specializes in evaluation and treatment of neuromuscular, musculoskeletal and functional complications of cancer, to evaluate the reasons for the pain in the pelvic area.

The Sloan Memorial Tumor Board met a week ago to discuss Hap’s status. Present at the meeting was Hap’s main doctor, his Interventional Radiologist, the Surgeon that saw Hap saw a year ago and his Radiation Oncologist. Hap, Mary and Lisa (sister) attended Hap’s appointment last Monday to discuss the outcome of the board’s recommendations with his main doctor. A clinical trial was discussed, but after close research by his doctor it was determined that she does not feel comfortable with the side effects this trial would produce. At this time, Hap’s condition is considered somewhat stable. This clinic trial drug only has an 18% response rate. His doctor would like to see if Hap becomes symptomatic before his next scheduled scan.

Last Thursday, Hap and Mary saw the doctor recommended to evaluate the cause of his pain in the pelvic area. This doctor described himself as the “sports medicine doctor” for cancer patients. He, along with a neuro-radiologist, determined that the sporadic pain episodes that Hap has been experiencing are most likely caused by the obturator lymph node. This lymph node is surrounded by nerves that are being pressed up against the pelvic bone as the lymph node becomes inflamed. He will leave it up to Hap’s main doctor to decide if they should treat the node in the near future. Meanwhile, he prescribed a prescription to manage the pain during any future “flare-ups”.

Hap’s next scan is March 10 with later follow-up appts with his main doctor and a surgeon.

A Thought for the Day: With national economic worries, the devastation to Haiti, and individual challenges, everyone needs the season of Lent for inward spiritual reflection in our lives to renew hope.