We found out today that Penny has been matched to an immunotherapy clinical trial. We have a “consent appointment” next Thursday at which we can ask questions and decide if this is the right next thing. In the meantime, we have a 26-page consent document to digest.
The study drug is a bispecific antibody drug that binds both to a protein found on many cancer cells and to a protein found on T cells, cells that are supposed attack things the body deems “foreign”. The goal is to make the T cells more effective at destroying the cancer cells.
The study drug is combined with a monoclonal antibody that blocks a receptor on the T cells that prevents the T cells from destroying other cells. That is, it makes one of the brakes on the immune system less effective.
If we participate in the study, the first treatment would be in late September. Between now and then, there would be some additional tests and scans to establish a baseline, and to rule out any disqualifiers for the study.
Administration of the drug would involve an overnight stay in the hospital and ambulance rides between the clinic and hospital. And, of course, there would be lots of monitoring, especially in the days following the first treatment.
The study has been going for a little while already, and it sounds like there have been some encouraging results, so we are interested to hear more next week. There is also a LONG list of possible side effects. But I guess all those drug ads have helped desensitize everyone to those.
For now our job is to study up a bit on the study and prepare our list of questions.
Comments
Kris Buth: Praying for continued wisdom and discernment as you make decisions.
Chriss Pruim: i’m so grateful to hear that you found a possible match! i will be praying that it is effective and that the side effects are minimal and/or nonexistent.
Laura DeHaan: Prayers for you all, as you consider this step. Thankful that you seem to have found a match, and wish you peace and rest as you await the new developments.
Susan Langeland: I second all the good words of the people who wrote before me.
Alisa Tigchelaar: Praying for you right now, Penny and Randy, as you anticipate the next step of reading a long document and building your questions. The "match" seems like hopeful news, so also praying that the end result of your study is that you can confidently join the clinical trial. I also pray that you are able to enjoy some good rest this weekend.
George Monsma, Jr.: Praying for guidance as you consider this.
Mike Borst: Sounds hopeful! Praying for wisdom and clarity. And clear answers to your questions.
Pamela Plantinga: I'm so thankful there's a match!! I'll be praying now for wisdom as you consider it, and that it turns out to be amazingly effective.
Jim and Andrea: Well, of it weren't Penny having to endure all the side effects and uncertainty, it would seem that you are about to (possibly) embark on a very exciting journey! Fascinating! Your inclination to understand makes it all the more interesting. Hopefully, if you and Penny decide to go ahead, she will find side effects manageable. Thanks for the update! - Jim and Andrea Turner