I have waited a few days before sending out an update because I wanted to make sure all of the facts were in concerning Ely's diagnosis. He has been diagnosed with non small cell carcinoma, Stage IV-Lung Cancer, which started in his lung and has spread to his spine. Earlier we had said that the tumor on his spine was not malignant but the biopsy was misdiagnosed.
On Wednesday, October 7, we went to the Vanderbilt Cancer Research Center in Nashville, TN. We met with Dr. Leora Horn, a medical oncologist, who specializes in lung cancer. She shared the available options, as well as her professional opinion concerning Ely and his type of cancer.
The only cure for this Lung Cancer is the divine intervention of our Lord, which we continue to pray for. The other best available option appears to be for Ely to enter into a Clinical Trial, at Vanderbilt, using a drug called Tarceva. Tarceva is taken orally and has a few common side effects such as a skin rash, diarrhea and sun sensitivity. Though there are many other possible side effects they are rare. Tarceva will seek out and attack cancer anywhere in the body and is considered a relatively low risk cancer treatment drug.
With all of that said, Ely and Rosa will leave for Guatemala this Friday and return in a few weeks to begin the clinical trial. Please continue to pray for Ely, Rosa and family. Thanks so much.
God bless you,
Lewis and Donna
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