At this time, we are willing to try any means that might attack my tumor.  With this in mind, we were referred to  a doctor that  works with experimental medicines/trials.  Last Monday I met with a doctor that specializes in experimental medicines.  This doctor concentrates on drugs that are just being introduced for human trials.  The doctor decided to test tissue from my biopsy to determine what gene was present in my tumor.  There is a study being done right now that is aimed at a particular gene and if my tumor has that gene, I can be put in the test group immediately.  At this time, though, it does not look like  there are any specific drugs that are being tested that would attack the gene present in my tumor.  I am on a waiting list for any testing available.  It may take between two to four months before I am able to be in a testing group because they begin new groups every six weeks and the number of subjects is limited.
     Wednesday we met with my pain management doctor.  We discussed changes that have occurred in the last month.  The only change that has occurred is a weakening in my left leg.  I still have good upper body strength which impressed him, but it has become more difficult to move around wtht the weakening in my legs.  He is impressed with all the ways we have been able to adapt and go on with everyday living.  With this in mind, he made no changes in my medications.
     This week, we had Kath's brother, Robin, and wife, Penny, come over for lunch at our house.  I appreciate the fact that people realize that I can't move around outside the house too well anymore, so they are willing to come to our house.  As always, my great friend, Barry, continues to stop by and pick me up at least once (and sometimes more) a week to spend time at Great Harvest Bread Company.  I look forward to these times because it really helps break up the week.  A special treat happened today with fraternity brothers, Doug, Jay, and John stopping by for a couple of hours to visit.  It's wonderful because my "brothers" as well as other visitors realize that visits have to be held down to a couple of hours because of issues that I have to deal with.  But it is wonderful to be able to laugh, tell stories, and generally shoot the breeze without getting too serious.  Laughter is the best medicine.