The latest update is that we have been referred to a doctor with the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA / Fred Hutch) who is holding a clinical trial for a new drug treating those with "High-risk Asymptomatic (no symptoms yet) Smoldering Multiple Myeloma" (held by Novartis Pharmaceuticals).
As another evidence of God's sovereignty over this, the doctor conducting this trial that we were referred to (Dr. William Bensinger) is the same one that Chelsa had on the top of her list after looking at the list of doctors treating Multiple Myeloma (prior to our referral). These little evidences have been HUGE for us -- as a gift from God reminding us that he is watching over her.
The appointment to talk with Dr. Bensinger, find out if she would be eligible for the trial and what it is all about, is on Wednesday, July 13th. So please pray for good news on that day.
We also received a referral from a friend at church who works with Harborview Medical to see Dr. Pamela Becker at Seattle Cancer Care (who was the doctor I had first picked out after the diagnosis). The question is whether we go to see her in addition to Dr. Bensinger. Currently we're thinking that we go to the first appointment and then decide about the second... but prayer for guidance on this would be appreciated as well.
Also, this Friday we are going to see a Naturopath, Dr. Matt Angrove (at Dr. Catanzaro's Health & Wellness Center).
Thanks for the comments we've received on the Blog -- and just a reminder that this is a great place to communicate with us about how we're doing. While we appreciate phone calls, it is an emotional topic that we're doing our best to set some boundaries around. Thank you all for your continued love and prayers.
~Matt & Chelsa
7 comments:
Matt and Chelsa,
This blog is such a great thing. Pop and I woke up and were thinking of you and just logged in to see how things were going. The options you have in Seattle are amazing even though the decisions are so hard. You both are in our thoughts and prayers and we believe that God will guide you and all of us as we travel this path together. We love you, Pop and Claudia ps Counting the days till we see you. YEAH!
Brian and I are praying, my friends! Praying for wisdom and clarity surrounding these big decisions, and so thankful that God has brought new options to the fore.
We are praying for you everyday, throughout each day. Thank you for the concise info that you are sharing and the frequency. It helps so much.
Love you both. Aunt San and Uncle Bri
Dear Matt and Chelsa,
I'll make a quick introduction; I'm Sara one of the newest additions to the Southwick family. I married Joe Southwick on 07/18/09 and we have Jason who is already three years old. Although we haven’t meet in person yet I will be praying for you and Matt during these trying times. I hope the best for you and the decisions you make as a family.
With Love: Sara, Joe and Jason Southwick
Just want you to know that we are thinking about you and the visit with Dr Bensinger tomorrow. Love you, Pop and Claudia
So we missed it by a month...hmmm. Still thinking about you tomorrow. Love, Pop and Claudia
Chelsa and Matt-You are in my thoughts and prayers. It is so hard to hear those words "you have cancer" but you have the positive attitude and resources available to you, plus your faith, family and friends-can't beat that! I have worked as a volunteer for 11 years with the American Cancer Society, since Grandpa's death. I know many friends who have called their hotline for 24 hour support and information. In case you don't know it already it is 1-800 ACS 2345. Hope you also find out where the closest Relay For Life is in your area. These events honor cancer survivors-the reason we "relay"! And, you are a survivor from the day of your diagnosis, so hope you will go and experience an event you are not likely to forget any time soon! My last one a month ago was just as special as my first, and I will Relay until they find a cure. Love you both (and at the risk of sounding like a freakin' commercial, go to relayforlife.org or cancer.org for lots and lots of info!) Maybe something will be helpful! I hope so!
Post a Comment