Jared's treatment plan...

Today we went up to the Huntsman Center and met with Dr. Coleman, Jared's Neuro Oncologist. Ironically enough, Jared was originally diagnosed with his brain tumor 11 years ago today, on December 7th, 1999.

They had all the results from Jared's biopsy tests back. His tumor is still an Oligodendroglomia, but they are now considering it a grade 3 instead of a grade 2. It has both grade 2 and 3 possibilities, but they are treating it more agressively, as a grade 3. Also the last test we were waiting on was the 1P19Q deletion test. This test result shows that his 19th chromosome does not have a deletion (the legs are attached) which to us means that he will need to do both Chemo & Radiation to have the best results. We were hoping for just Chemo, but we also know we also need to be aggressive with this tumor.

We are waiting to hear back from the Radiation doctor, Dr. Shreeve, but it sounds like we will most likely start radiation next week. Radiation will be every day, monday through friday, for 6 weeks (30 treatments). He will also start Chemotherapy the same day. His Chemo is called Temodar. Its a pill he will take every day for six weeks. It has pretty low side effects. He might get nauseous, tired, and lose a little hair just where his radiation will be, but it should grow back. After the 6 weeks are over, he will continue taking the Chemo, but just 5 pills a month (on for 5 days...off for 3 weeks, then repeat) he will take Chemo for a least 6 months, maybe longer.
Our hope is that by doing the Chemo and Radiation together his tumor will shrink up to 20 percent, and more importantly, stop growing.
He is still in good spirits. I am soo proud of him and how well he has handled all of this. Its alot to take in all at once, but he is doing a pretty good job of staying positive. I am so grateful for Jared, and Im very lucky to be his wife!