Red Lentil receipe

Lentils are a good source of potassium, calcium, zinc, iron, niacin and vitamin K, rich in dietary fiber and protein.  They are also easy to cook.  I like this red lentil recipe.  I added 2 tsp turmeric because we are fighting cancer.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/winner-aarti-sequeira1/mums-everyday-red-lentils-recipe.html

Radiation from Airplane flight vs. Dental X-ray

Do you know that the radiation a person gets from an airplane flight from NY to LA is 5 times more than a single dental X-ray?  How about the radiation that a patient receives from a Chest X-ray for screening lung cancer?  It is about 100 microSieverts, 1/60 of a whole body PET scan that is used to monitor cancer progress in patients.  A Chest X-ray or a low dosage CT scan can catch lung cancer at its early stage.  If you are at risk (family history, environment exposure, stress, smoking), it is worthwhile to get screened. 

Gwohann has received four PET scans and one CT scan this year for diagnosis and monitoring his cancer.   

Source: http://www.conciergeradiologist.com/pet-scan-radiation.html

The birthday video is ready! 慶生會的影片出爐了！

Gwohann's 60th birthday party was filled with laughter mixed with emotional moments.  Thank you to everyone who make it a memorable one!  國漢的六十歲慶生會歡樂又感人。謝謝親朋好友們共創美好的回憶。

Spirulina - blue green algae

Spirulina is used by holistic therapist for cancer prevention, here is a trusted report of its effectiveness.

http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/herb/blue-green-algae

Clinical Summary
Blue-green algae, also known as Cyanobacteria, are primitive autotrophic prokaryotes. They are a source of food in some parts of the world and patients take the supplemental form to prevent and treat cancer and viral infections, and for weight loss. Spirulina species are cultured in alkaline fresh water whereasAphanizomenon flos aquae (AFA) is naturally grown and harvested from Upper Klamath Lake, Oregon, USA. Blue-green algae products frequently contain one or both of these strains of algae.
Studies have shown that spirulina may be effective against allergic rhinitis ⁽⁵⁾, in managing diabetes ⁽³⁾, and showed a cholesterol-lowering effect in patients with nephrotic syndrome-induced hyperlipidemia ⁽⁴⁾. Preliminary data indicate that it may also be a safe and effective agent in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection ⁽¹⁹⁾.

Animal studies suggest that spirulina has chemoprotective and radioprotective effects ⁽⁶⁾, but human data are lacking.
Blue-green algae may be contaminated by strains of algae (e.g. microcystin species) that are toxic.

Constituents

• Proteins (50-70%): All essential amino acids
• Carbohydrates: Rhamnose, ribose, mannose, fructose, polysaccharides
• Vitamins: A, E, cyanocobalamin, niacin, choline, folic acid, thiamine
• Other: Chlorophyll, copper, magnesium, zinc, potassium

Warnings

Microcystin contamination can cause hepatotoxicity, renal failure, and neurotoxicity. Products should be certified free from contamination.

Fermented food and cancer

A study on fermented food and cancer risk
by Johanna W. Lampe, PhD, RD
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Seattle, WA

Click to see the Original presentation

Fermentation products generated:
 May cause adverse effects:
-- N-nitroso compounds (NOCs), mycotoxins
 May offer health benefits:
-- anti-microbials; viable bacteria in non-pasturized products

Cultured Dairy Products as Modifiers of
the Gut Microbiome and Gut Physiology
 Source of probiotics, mostly
Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium
 Probiotic-supplemented yogurt in
mice and humans:
-- did not appreciably alter the
composition of the gut microbiota
-- induced transcriptional and metabolic
changes reflecting increases in
carbohydrate metabolism

Flowered-rind soft cheeses contain live bacteria.

 Camembert microbes can survive intestinal transit.

 Camembert feeding did not modify gut bacterial populations.

 Had a beneficial influence on intestinal metabolism

 Decrease in azoreductase activity and NH3 concentration

 Increase in mucolytic activities

 Increase proportion of ursodeoxycholic resulting from chenodeoxycholic 

epimerisation 

 Increase β-galactosidases 

 Decrease azoreductases and nitrate reductases

Fermented Foods and Cancer: SUMMARY
 Fermented foods as a group include a variety of foods.
 They are not consumed in isolation and traditional
cuisines high in some types of fermented foods also
include other foods that may be considered healthy or
less healthy.
 Mechanistic studies have identified components of
fermented foods that influence risk of some cancers.
 N-nitrosocompounds in pickled vegetables and fish
 Interactions between diet and microbial infections may
increase risk
 More mechanistic studies are needed to follow up on
epidemiologic findings.
 Identify ways to minimize risk and increase beneficial effects

War Paint

Fresh coat in War paint series by Paul Richmond

Wearing war paint, the warrior engages in battle with ferocity and determination.

The rashes from Tarceva that cover his face and upper body are still fresh after two months of antibiotics, cortisone cream and moisturizer many times a day.  Waking up several times during the night to put on moisturizer or medicine to quell the itchiness has become a nightly routine.  He yearns for a good night sleep.  His fingertips hurt to touch because his skin became so dry that it splits and sheds.  Diarrhea is waiting for him, should he eat something that doesn't agree with his stomach.  Fatigue and mouth sores come and go.  But for Gwohann, these are small prices to pay for a chance to win.  He intensifies his exercise routine, eats nutritious meals, and never misses his daily devotions.  Of course, watching his favorite comedy shows are part of the regimen that he enjoys.

He is a warrior with war paint.

Next time you see Gwohann, let him know that you like his war paint.

-- Jacqueline

It's working!

After two months of the target therapy Tarceva, the PET scan on June 24th shows 'miraculous progress' according to Dr. Dormady.  All of the cancer cells are either gone or under control.  The news brought us great comfort and relief.  The battle is not over yet, but our steps are a bit lighter and our smiles are a little bigger.

-- Jacqueline

Boost your natural defenses

Anyone can get cancer.  It is never too early or too late to boost your natural defenses in preventing and treating cancer.

The cancer that the NCI forgot

BTW, Gwohann has never smoked.

Excerpt from http://lifesciencesfoundation.org/printer_magazine-bonnie_addario.html

Bonnie embarked on advanced studies in the biology, epidemiology, and politics of lung cancer. In conversation with other patients, she learned that the ‘standard of care’ is late-stage diagnosis, a dearth of treatment options, and poorly-coordinated medical services. She also learned that research on lung cancer is relatively neglected.

In 1971, President Richard Nixon declared war on cancer. He signed the National Cancer Act into law, funneled a storm surge of federal dollars toward cancer research, and empowered the National Cancer Institute [NCI] to administer the funds. The legislation became a source of hope for cancer patients and their families, but lung cancer became the disease that NCI forgot.

In the United States, lung cancer claims a life every three minutes. It takes twenty people per hour, 450 people per day. The disease kills more people than breast, prostate, colon, liver, skin, and kidney cancer combined, but funding for research on lung cancer lags behind all the rest. A mere 5% of the NCI’s research support budget is allotted to lung cancer projects.

In 2001, the NCI’s Lung Cancer Progress Review Group, a panel of thirty expert clinicians, scientists, industry representatives, and patient advocates, reported that funding for studies of lung cancer was “far below the levels that characterize other common malignancies and far out of proportion to its massive public health impact.” The lopsided distribution has not been rectified.

A comparison with breast cancer funding is telling. In 2008, lung cancer killed 161,840 Americans. NCI expenditures for lung cancer research amounted to $1,529 per lung cancer death. Breast cancer took 40,480 lives in 2008, but the NCI spent significantly more per breast cancer death: $14,145. Addario’s view of the situation is simple: “Funding should be distributed equitably.”

A review of priorities in lung cancer research uncovers further issues. Sixty-two percent of NCI funds are earmarked for studies on prevention, causes, survivorship, and outcomes. Only 38% are dedicated to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. Addario questions the wisdom of the apportionment. Many lung cancer patients receive stage IV diagnoses: “You have lung cancer. We’ll put you on Carboplatin and Taxol. Your hair will fall out. You’ll get sick and throw up. Then you’ll die.” Seventy-five percent of lung cancer patients die within eight to ten months of diagnosis. 

 

Addario believes that NCI’s emphasis on prevention has to do with the fact that lung cancer is stigmatized as a “smoker’s disease.” Patients diagnosed with lung cancer are regularly asked if they smoked – it’s frequently the first thing they hear when someone learns of their condition. The question is an attempt to make sense of the world, to reduce the complexity of experience and discern order, but it’s simultaneously an attempt to assign blame. If lung cancer is the result of an individual’s decision to smoke, does it deserve as much attention as other common killers – breast cancer, prostate cancer, or colon cancer?

Bonnie wants to set the record straight: “The world still assumes, apparently, that only smokers get lung cancer. That’s not true.” Some individuals are genetically predisposed to the disease, and environmental factors – atmospheric pollutants such as radon or the fine particulate matter found in smog, for example – contribute to the formation of lung tumors. Eighty percent of those diagnosed with lung cancer quit smoking decades earlier or never smoked at all.

Addario objects to NCI’s funding priorities because studies of causation, prevention, and outcomes will not improve deficiencies in diagnosis and treatment – areas of pressing need that are not similarly deemphasized in, for example, breast cancer research. “The breast cancer movement has done a fabulous job,” Addario says. “The five-year survival rate for breast cancer is now above 90%. We want to achieve the same kind of results for lung cancer.” The five-year survival rate for lung cancer is 15.5%, and the figure hasn’t changed in 40 years. “That’s unacceptable,” Bonnie declares. “It can’t take another 40 years to make a difference. This needs to change!”

End of excerpt

-------------------------------------

Finally, NCI's spending on lung cancer research has increased, but it is still not enough.  

Cancer Type	2010 Spending (in millions)	2011 Spending (in millions)	2012 Spending (in millions)
Lung	$281.9	$296.8	$314.6
Prostate	300.5	288.3	265.1
Breast	631.2	625.1	602.7
Colorectal	270.4	265.1	256.3
Bladder	22.6	20.6	23.4
Melanoma	102.3	115.6	121.2
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma	122.4	126.4	119.5
Kidney	44.6	46.2	49.0
Thyroid	15.6	16.2	16.5
Endometrial (Uterine)	14.2	15.9	19.1

-- Jacqueline

A great short video about immunotherapy and lung cancer

What could your face do for lung cancer this Father’s Day?

What could your face do for lung cancer this Father’s Day?

Honor a father or special male in your life and sign up for Grow for the Cure. Help us in the fight to raise much needed funding for lung cancer research and patient programs, as well as ignite discussion about this disease.

It's not too late to sign up today!
You can choose how long YOU want to grow.
A week, a month, a year?

  

Happy 60th Birthday!

Gwohann's 60th birthday celebration on May 31 was one of the happiest days in our lives. The event, conducted in Mandarin, was filled with laughter and many touching moments.  Below is a recount of the event.  The Men's book club opened the event with their signature anthem "I Am a Happy Man" which filled the room with joy.  Jen-I and Lynn's hilarious dating skit brought back the sweet memory of our younger days. The entertaining slideshow presented by Jonathan took us through the active and passionate life of Gwohann.. We couldn't stop laughing at the brilliant song and dance ensemble presented by the talented River of Life Board. The '笑笑，笑笑‘ words stuck with us for several days afterwards.  The light dimmed again, appearing on the screen was videos sent by Gwohann's co-workers at Mentor Graphics.   Hearing their remarks and birthday wishes help us know how much his colleagues admire and love him.    Later, we were amazed by the bravery and creativity of our cell group who wore Chinese traditional costumes, each reciting GwoHann-customized classic poetry. The highlight for us was when they gave Gwohann blessings in an ingeniously revised 包青天 song. Our eyes were wet with tears when Pastor Tong Liu presented the 'Global Mission Ambassador' award to Gwohann. It is an honor beyond our imagination. Surrounded by family and friends, Gwohann's face glowed with happiness in the lights of the '60' candles. Life has never been so good, he said. The celebration would not be complete without a game, a favorite pastime of Gwohann. After the Trivial Pursuit game, everyone learned that Gwohann could eat a pineapple a day if he was allowed to, and also learned which country is still closest to his heart. Speaking of which, another short video showed several family members from Taiwan singing and dancing wishing Gwohann happy birthday, in Taiwanese style.  Gwohann burst into tears when our daughter Stephanie paid her tribute by singing his favorite song 'What A Wonderful World', a song that reflects his dreams and hopes. But, he felt comforted when our kids Christina and Jonathan together gave a humorous and appreciative speech about him, affirming their love for him. For the first time in my life, I serenaded to Gwohann with 月亮代表我的心,with the whole audience joining in. Our honoree took the stage to thank our guests and gave a testimonial of his journey in battling lung cancer.  He named and honored several key people who had guided him in his life.  He concluded that the love and support from our family and community is what continues to sustain him in the battle against cancer. The finale came when Gwohann and I sang '在我生命中的每一天'. We chose the song because the lyric is how we feel about each other, thanking each other for being there everyday.  As the end, we expressed our hope that the celebration will be a reminder to everyone that they should thank their loved ones for being there.  --- Jacqueline

No Pain, No Gain

Dad is coming up on 1 month of using the "silver bullet", Tarceva. The drug is doing wonders as he smiles more, says it's easier to breathe, and his coughing has subsided. He has a re-energized outlook on life and I see a lift in his spirits!  But as they say... No pain, no gain!

Along with the drug's amazing efficacy come powerful side effects. Dad suffers from 5 of the 7 well-known side effects of Tarceva - most noticeable of which are the rashes/acne on his face and upper body.  It's like he's going through puberty again. His re-energized, youthful spirit is accompanied by the struggles of youth as well... He is now taking antibiotics and cream to help with the rashes.

The other side effects - fatigue, mouth sores, diarrhea, itchy scalp, etc, which were strong the first 2-3 weeks, have subsided substantially. Dad says it's thanks to the prayers of his dear brothers & sisters.  Thank you, thank you!  :)

Dad's check-up last Wednesday with the Oncologist was positive.  His lab report showed positive reaction to the medicine.  CEA levels were down from last time 2.5 to 2.2.  (< 3.0 is normal level).  He'll continue taking the wonder drug for 5 more weeks until his next PET Scan.  We are looking forward to having a celebration party for him - for a happy 60th birthday & cheers to a successful fight thus far!


- Stephanie

The Silver Bullet

Good news! The PET scan from Monday showed that the tumor activities have reduced. The blood report also showed that the tumor marker CEA has decreased to within the normal range! Knowing how tough it is to harness the lung cancer, we are happy about the result.  Praise God!

Gwohann can now use the molecularly targeted therapy, as our oncologist coined it  'the trump card', to kill the driver for the cancer growth and keep the beast under control.  He is fortunate to be one of the 10% NSCLC patients whose gene mutations match EGFR.  Therefore, the targeted therapy Tarceva will work 'beautifully' and produce great result for him.

We are very excited about this new treatment which was only available in the last few years.  The drug will be taken orally with tolerable side effects, hence, not only that the drug will be effective, but we will have a better quality of life.

It feels like that we are let out of the 'chemo cage', free and wonderful!

You are receiving this update because you have been cheering us on and giving us a hand while we were in the chemo treatment.  We couldn't have sustained the chemo without you!  Thank you for all you have done for us!

Love,
Gwohann 國漢 and Jacqueline 佳芬

Climbing up

The fourth chemo seems to hit harder and faster with various side effects including palpitation, indigestion, extreme fatique, headache, mouth sores, nosebleed, and feeling depressed.  However, thanks to God, GwoHann passed the naider in 7 days, with most of the side effects subsided.  It is a miracle that he recovered faster than the previous cycle.  We attribute it to all the prayers and support from our friends and family.  In less than two weeks, smile has returned to his face and he has resumed most of the activities including hiking 50 minutes a day.  I could hardly catch up with him!

Most important, he coughs less and can breath better!

We will get a PET scan next Monday (the no-carbohydrate diet the day before will be another trial to the will power), and see the oncologist on the following day to discuss the next treatment course. 

Please continue to pray that the treatment is effective and that his immune system is stronger than before, that all the cancer cells will be completely wiped out from his body in no time!  

- Jacqueline

Mr. Bean comes to rescue

One sure way to stir up an appetite is a good laugh.  To GwoHann, there is no one better than Mr. Bean who can deliver a heartfelt laughter.  As Mr. Bean solves the various problems by unusual solution and causing disturbance in the process, GwoHann joyfully eats his dinner bite by bite, frequently bursting out laughter.

Rowan Atkinson probably didn't expect that he could rescue an appetite dampened by the chemo when he created the first episode in 1990.  Therefore, never underestimate the impacts your creation and work can bring.  It may one day save a person's day or life.

- Jacqueline

Fourth Chemo

Surrounded by three generations of family members and friends, GwoHann is going strong for the 4th chemo, hopefully, the last one.

Being such an easy to talk to patient, every nurse calls him by name, comes to say hi and gives him hugs.  It was like a chemo party, a 6-hour one.

I found that every cancer care nurse there has a special talent.  They could crack a joke to make you laugh while poking a needle to you.  By the time your eyes winces from the quick sharp pain, your smile was still lingering on your face.  Imagine the look.

Speaking of needles, GwoHann got two big bruises (hematoma) this time when two nurses each tried to find an accessible vein but failed. They said that this kind of things happen after the patient receives multiple chemos, the veins 'runs' when the IV needle is put in.  However, when Kathy, the nurse who was known for her superb skills in finding veins, was called in to help, she got it in the first time, as always. Skills or running veins, we don't know.  One thing we know for sure is that after GwoHann and I prayed for a smooth IV injection for the following day's hydration treatment, it went well.  We decided that we will pray every time before getting poked.

- Jacqueline

Welcome to our blogs

Dear Family and Friends,

THANK YOU to all of you for having been so kind to us, expressing concerns about how we are doing, and inquiring about how you can help.  We hope that by sharing this blog with you will help answer some of your questions.  Please check the past postings if you are interested in learning about our journey. Thank you for reading.

While Jacqueline may have a bit hard time talking about the disease repeatedly, GwoHann is always looking for a good listener to discuss about his latest treatment and status.  Please feel free to email or call him.

We are also grateful for your support both in prayers and in deeds. We hope the periodic updates will help give you a direction in what to pray for us, and perhaps lending us a hand.

There is also a link to the meal support calendar which you can use to sign up.  Thank you for your generosity of your love and time.

We are fighting an extremely difficult battle, but with your love and support, we shall claim the victory!

In gratitude,
Gwohann and Jacqueline

Enjoy the sunshine before the next round

Thanks to so many friends and family's support and prayers, Dad tolerates the 3rd cycle better than the 2nd.  We also know how to prevent and manage the side effects better when they occur.

We didn't go out to the public area for 16 days, hence, Dad didn't get infected this time.  Also, Dad took breaks and naps as much as he could to cope with the fatigue, and was able to emerge from the chemo nadier after two weeks.  This Sunday, Dad hiked with the cell group members at the Rancho San Antonio, and I went watched a movie with friends.  Later we enjoyed a Thai dinner with old friends, the Hsia and the Chu families.

Life is still beautiful.

The fourth chemo starts on Tuesday, April 8, at 9 am.

- Jacqueline

The support group and clinical trial at Stanford

There was a line at the valet parking, I had to wait, because there was no garage nearby. The 20 or so valets were moving as fast as they could.  The modern building was nice looking, with travertines wall and sleek tall windows.  People were walking in and out constantly.  It felt like going to Nordstrom during the holidays, except no one was carrying shopping bags and the air was heavy.  It was the Stanford Cancer Center.

The social worker who led the lung cancer support group was in her late 20s.  Most everyone else in the room including the spouses were in their 60s.  She tried hard to connect with us by small talks. However, no one was talking.  I decided to ask the group questions (you know me). Coincidentally the five patients present were all females. Three people were on Tarceva without the chemo, one of whom was celebrating her third year under a clinical trial.  She and her husband were clearly happy about the result. Another lady had red rashes on her face, obviously from Tarceva. One fashionable Asian lady named Lynn told us what she has been through. She had a full course of 6 chemos, 2 partial brain radiations, Tarceva, and now going for a full brain radiation treatment. She said it had been a tough journey but she is glad that she has passed three years. What a fighter!  I have TREMENDOUS respects for every cancer patient and survivor.

Lynn said that Stanford probably takes 100 patients each day for chemo infusion, therefore it is typically a 2 hours wait before the patient can get sit on the infusion station. There is a 45 minutes wait for drawing blood after checking in.  2 hours wait to see the doctors unless you get the first appointment of the day.  From the conversation, I realized that we had made the right decision in getting the treatment at the El Camino Hospital, because we know how Dad hates to wait and that personable service is important to him. 

The speaker of the day walked in, and it was Dr. Wakelee! I felt lucky because it was my first time attending and I got one of the best thoracic oncologists in the world to answer my questions. She spoke about her team, how they provide medical care, and what their research focuses are. I admire that she is passionate in finding a cure and increasing the lifespan of lung cancer patients. She encouraged us that there are drugs in the pipeline waiting for clinical trials and FDA approval.  Her reputation in the field and the amount of work that she does seem disproportionate to her 5 ft petite build and her gentle voice.

To qualify for her clinical study of Tarceva and Immune therapy combination treatment, the patient has to stop taking any treatment and has a biopsy done.  The pathologists and scientists will stain and look at the biopsy samples to determine if the patient is qualified. The process takes about a month, and during which time, the patient can not take any treatment.  Thus far, she only has 4 patients, out of the many patients who want to get on the trial, actually qualified for the trial.  My take is that the wait could be nerve racking because the tumor may grow, and worse, the patient may not qualify after the month long wait.  Even worse, the therapy may not work for the patient.  

I have read online about one woman who couldn't take Tarceva, but took the immunotherapy trial and was very fortunate to have it worked wonder for her. She is in her 7th year. That is why it got me interested in immunotherapy.  However, knowing that Tarceva will work for Dad and with the risk of an unproven trial, I am not sure if we want to take this route.  Have to think about this more.  

I followed Dr. Wakelee after she exited the room to ask her a few more questions about Dad. She was very kind and patient in answering my questions.  At the end, she gave me a warm smile and told me "hang in there!" I don't know why, but my eyes became teary.  

Ama is here!

Since Ama arrived on 3/31, I have been able to feel more relaxed.  It felt like a burden was partially lifted from my shoulder.

At age 82, she walks a bit slower than before.  Nonetheless, she looks fantastic and is still as industrious as before.  She is always one step ahead of me.  Within 3 days of her arrival, she did the pile of laundry, mopped the entire hardwood floor, gave Riley a bath and cleaned up my fridge.  She showed us the 'swing arms' exercise that is very popular in Taiwan and China to strengthen the immune system.  Most important, she gave us the mental support that we most needed.  She told us not to be despair, Dad will get better.

I am so grateful that I have a wonderful mom.  She has always been the quiet and peaceful force that strengthens my weaknesses, and comfort my heartaches.

- Jacqueline

Second opinion from Stanford

We saw Dr. Heather Wakelee at Stanford on March 31 for second opinion.  We were impressed by her knowledge and experience.  She has been specializing in thoracic oncology for 10 years at Stanford, and now is the director of the group.  One can tell that she is a scientist and her answers are based on published clinical studies.  The consultation lasted for 1 hour 45 minutes including the time interfacing with her interns.

Her recommendations and comments:

1. Four cycle chemo is a standard in treating lung cancer, but no one knows how effective it is versus 2 or 3 cycles, because there has never been clinical studies done on this. Hence,the decision is usually based on how the disease respond to the chemo after 2 cycles and how much the patient can tolerate the chemo.  However, at the same time, the effectiveness of the first 2 cycles does not predict the effectiveness of the next two.
2. From the PET scan, the tumors were reduced by about x% after two cycles, but it is difficult to judge the effects on the small dots in both lungs.  A CT scan can tell better.  
3. Cisplatin is toxic and will have late effects on the nerves (which means long term side effects that develop later).  In Dad's case, she said we can go without the Cisplatin in the fourth cycle if we are concerned.
4. The standard treatment for EGFR mutation like Dad has is Tarceva first.  Treatment starting with chemo is usually for patients who have no EGFR mutations.  However, the overall survival is the same for either route.  No one can say one is better than the other.  
5. There is no clinical study shows that starting with chemo may prolong the effectiveness of Tarceva.
6. Most patients can tolerate Tarceva, but some patients found it as bad as the chemo.  The most common side effect is facial rashes.
7. Since we have already taken the chemo first route, we should try, after the fourth cycle, to continue the chemo without the Cisplatin, i.e. Alimta and Avastin for as long as we can before switching to Tarceva.  The reasons are
   - Try to get the most out of the chemo and save Tarceva for later
   - Insurance most likely will not pay for Avastin after we stop, because Avastin is expensive, $15,000 per infusion.  
8. Tarceva does not work forever, but there will be other steps that we can take after Tarceva.  
9. Her research focus is on how to make Tarceva works longer on the patients.  
10. One of the clinical trials she is conducting is Tarceva plus immune therapy.  She asked us to consider it before taking Tarceva.  The clinical trial is only open to patients who have not taken Tarceva.  If Dad starts taking Tarceva, he will not be eligible.  (will write about her clinical trial in another blog)
11. We should do CT scan instead of PET scan for the next few check points because PET scan gives more radiation to the body.  Dad already had two in one month.  CT scan every 2 to 3 months is sufficient.  Also, CT scan is lower risk to the health and will provide a better images for measuring and determining if the tumors have reduced.  Only do PET scan when there is suspicion that the tumors may have spread.
12. LingZi and JinShen will not interfere with the chemo based on the research done in Hong Kong

Stanford will send a note to Dr. Dormady about her recommendation.  We will see what Dr. Dormady has to say. 

Molecular level treatment

Watch the video if you are interested in why and how the molecular treatment of lung cancer, also the clinical trial in a very easy to understand presentation.  The speaker is a renowned thoracic oncologist and professor, Dr. Gangara at UC Davis.  We are very fortunate that we have these type of treatment which were only available in the last few years.  There maybe new drugs coming out in the near future. 

Video link: Molecular level cancer treatment

Third Chemo

Met Dr. Dormady in the morning to review the scan result from the two chemo cycles.  The tumors have reduced in size.  Praise to God!  Doctor gave us the choice of stopping now or going forward for two more rounds.  After further discussion, we decided to go for two more rounds.

Chemo is hard, but when battling against the monster, we need to go for the most aggressive regimen that Dad could take.  Thank God that Dad is relatively healthy and his body, according to Dr. Dormady, seems to tolerate the chemo well.  The third chemo started immediately after the meeting.

However, having done the chemo twice did not make the the process easier.  It was still physically and emotionally taxing.  Luckily, the El Carmino Cancer Center has a wonderful nursing team which makes the experience much more bearable.  In fact, if we were there for a different reason such as a minor illness, I would have said that it was a pleasant experience.  

It is very difficult for me to watch Dad receiving the chemo.  Thankfully, Stephanie and Jeff came to accompany Dad.  I decided to get away. 

Alternative complimentary treatment

Ouch! Dad felt the first needle punctured in.  Fortunately, it got easier as more needles were put in.

This is the first time Dad received the acupuncture treatment.  A good friend of ours made the appointment for us with a famous Chinese doctor in the area. Dad agreed to give it a try.

We don't know what the long term effect will be, but Dad fell asleep at the clinic and got a good night sleep after the treatment.  At least for that, it is a good thing.

Flu or side effects

Dad has a tough time in this chemo cycle - it is as if he had a severe flu plus the side effects of the chemo for a week now.  He feels fatigue almost all the time and that is just one of the symptoms.  Please pray for his speedy recovery.  

The doctor has already scheduled the third chemo, the prospect of which makes Dad wince. 

A Support Circle Needs Support Too!

Mom has had shortness of breath lately, and we were concerned that she had asthma. She went to the doctor and to our surprise, the doctor said it wasn't asthma but instead was stress-related! It turns out that over the past few weeks, Mom has not been breathing properly. Thankfully, yoga, meditation and breathing exercises will be sufficient to address the issue.

But it's worth noting that caregivers need support from family and friends. Mom has made a gargantuan effort to reshape Dad's and her own life to fight their battle. Logistics are a full-time job in themselves, let alone the barrage of emotions that need to be acknowledged and addressed.

While I will always see her as Supermom, we mustn't forget that Supermoms need their rest too. Give your Supermom a hug today and remind them what an important part they play in your life.

2nd Round of Chemo & the Oncologist gives great news!

I started the 2nd chemo today - Cisplatin, Alimta and Avastin in one day. We spent 7 hours in the clinic. Thanks to Stephanie and mom's company, the time went by very fast. They were able to enjoy a long two hour lunch break. Jonathan joined me on the following day for my 2-hour hydration.

Before the chemo Dr. Dormandy gave us the good news on my 1st chemo cycle. Blood lab report showed tumor index at 5.7 > 3.0 (normal stage), but we will need to wait for the report from the 2nd chemo cycle report to do a comparison as the numbers itself doesn't provide enough information. Some patients see numbers in the 100 or 1000 range. Besides this, all my other organs are functioning perfectly. 

More great news from Dr. Dormandy was the biopsy report which showed my cell mutation was suitable for EGFR targeted treatment. I can use Tarceva after my chemo is complete as prophylaxis. Thanks to God, this was phenomenal news for mom and me as the last two months have been an emotional roller coaster for us. We both felt cheered up.

Side effects have been manageable so far but even the small ones are irksome! Last night I woke up at 2AM and felt itchy on both arms. I put some lotion on, which worked a charm. I had hiccups twice in the night but thankfully did not feel nauseous. No mouth sores but I started using mouthwash this morning to prevent it from happening. I'm having problems sleeping, which may be caused by the steroids, so I took a half dose of the sleeping pill that Dr. Dormandy prescribed. After that I slept like a baby but woke up again around 4AM! After taking another 1/4 dose I was able to sleep until 6:30AM. It wasn't a restful night but sufficient to gain my energy back. Phew! Glad to have passed the first night alright.

I feel good compared to how I felt before the 2nd chemo. Hopefully the medicine is doing its work. Again thanks to our Lord for the latest miracles. We will conquer and win the war!

-Gohan

Timely encouragement

The chemo infusion took 7 hours this time because the preparation of the drugs took longer.  It has been a long day.  Exhausted and at the same time anxious.  Wonder how Dad's body will react to this cycle.  So many unknowns.

When we returned home, we found a beautiful bouquet waiting for us.  It was from Swanny and Rif, Jeff's parents, our new in-laws.  Looking at the flowers and the card, we got teary.  Swanny being a cancer survivor, knew how it felt receiving the treatment.  Since the day of diagnosis, they have been giving us the most timely support.  We are so thankful for a wonderful in-law family who is always there for us.

A few minutes later, my good friend Jamie sent over her home made meals.  I can't describe the feelings of having a meal ready after a dreadful day.  As we sat down to enjoy the meal, we can feel the love of our friend.  Thank you!

Well wishes from the homeland

My sister Carol and my Nephew Kai came from Taiwan to visit.  They brought snacks that we like, music CDs and a get well card that was hand crafted and signed by our relatives. We were very touched and encouraged.  Their visit brought back so many fond memories of the time that we had together.  It was always joyful and loving.  

佳蓉和凱凱從台灣來看我們。也帶來了在台灣的親戚所寫的慰問卡和音樂。我們看了好感動，也很被激勵。

Spirit of Love

Dad has been resting a lot as his body fights off the side effects of the first round of chemo. Some days he has to take multiple naps to keep his energy up. But he's a fighter! Dad even snuck out and headed to Costco to help Mom with groceries. A few laborious hours later, he came home exhausted but triumphant. 

Every year, for the last 30 years, Dad has brought home flowers for Mom on Valentine's Day. He was not to be foiled this year! Here they are in their glory.

Nothing Like Home Cooking

One of the most important things to do before stepping into any battleground is a great meal. Mom has been painstakingly making breakfast, morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, and dinner every single day! She also has to be wary of the type of foods Dad cannot eat and the foods Dad should eat, to improve his health. If this is hard to fathom, the schedule below gives you an inkling of the work involved.

Seriously, this is no easy task.

Thankfully, my parent's friends have been dropping off cooked meals for them once in a while to alleviate the burden and cheer them up with conversation. I can tell that it's incredibly uplifting for both my mom and dad. They're lucky to have the support of such a strong community!

My dad is also very lucky to have my mom looking after him. I would think it quite a treat to get served the lovely homemade plate below. There's even apples in the salad for color! Rock on Mom!

- Christina

Top of this Hill!

After two days of fatigue, occasional palpitation, feeling low, and some minor side effects from the chemo, Dad is feeling much better today.  Seeing him going around, lighten up my spirit as well.  He went to his office to have a lunch meeting with his coworker Michael.  Interacting with people energizes him.  Dad was very touched that Michael prayed for him. 

We saw Dr. Dormady for a one week follow-up. The doctor was very pleased to see that Dad rebounded quickly after the chemo. Dad can go in to receive the third drug, Avastin, tomorrow. One more blow to the cancer cells!

The gene testing from the biopsy samples will return in two weeks. 


- Jacqueline

Craving for a big meal

GwoHann lost some weight, therefore, several people including a couple of cancer survivors told us that we shouldn't focus so much on eating healthy, GwoHann should feel free to eat whatever he wants, at least once in a while. With that suggestion and having endured the biopsy #2, GwoHann wanted to reward himself with a big meal. Thus, we dined out last night and had Chinese beef rolls, Xian Bing, and ZhaJiangMian. It was satisfying, flavorful and tummy-full. However, the feelings of fullness came with a price. During the night we each had to get up several times, drinking water for the MSG, and alka-seltzer for GwoHann's heartburn. Evidently, the chemo drugs damages the cells in the digestive track, compromising his ability to eat regular size meals. A lesson learned. But, this morning GwoHann said 'I don't think alka-seltzer is a medicine. I think I should take it so I can eat more food and gain weight' 
What do you think?

- Jacqueline

Biopsy #2

Time for a big breakfast! We arrived at 6 am and were ready for the 2nd CT scan guided biopsy at the El Camino hospital. Blood work, x-ray, and CT scan both before and after the procedure. At least 8 nursing staff came to do different things. We wish that Dad didn't have to go through this, but are thankful we have modern technology. Fortunately, the procedure turned out to be short and successful. We just need to wait for 1.5 hours to take the final x-ray to make sure there are no air leaks. - Jacqueline

First Round of Chemo

I'm with Dad at the El Camino Hospital while he gets his first round of chemo. It will take 6 hours for him to get the full dosage of his first two meds - Cisplatin & Alimta. First 1.5 hours is saline solution to keep him hydrated, along with other pre-meds to combat the side effects. Anti-nausea, steroids, etc.

Mom told him last night that while you're in the hospital, you can make friends with other patients. As you come in regularly, you'll start to form relationships. When Dad got situated he immediately asked, "With these curtains between us, how are you supposed to make cancer friends?"

He's still the same Dad. Always wanting to be with people.

Dad's also such a fighter and once he puts his mind to it, will do everything 100%. The nurse mentioned it's helpful to drink plenty of water. He has had at least 32 ounces of tea in the first 1.5 hrs, and gone to the restroom three times.

He's gonna win. :)

- Steph

Results from MRI Scan

Great news! Dad's MRI results were clean! There were no cancer cells detected in his brain, signifying that the malignant growth is not wide spread.

- Christina