The MIGHTY Matt Swenson Wednesday morning update- I apologize as its been almost 2 months since the last written update. Its probably more stressful when I dont write. As much as we pray, this isnt going away any time soon, so here goes.... Matt is doing well and remains cancer free (NED - No Evidence of Disease). He started his 3rd round of Accutane treatments (oral) today. Accutane is an anti-cancer chemotherapy drug and each round is 14 days (140mg 2x/day). The side effects from the Accutane have been VERY harsh on him, physically and emotionally. October was miserable, November was considerably better. Matt has been going for PICC line maintenance and blood counts once each week (at JDCH in Hollywood), in addition to his monthly Pentamidine treatment. Last Monday, he received the Pentamidine plus a dose Rituxan. Every few weeks we send blood to Sloan in NYC to see if Matt is ready to receive his next 3F8 Immunotherapy treatment. He developed an antibody (HAMA) that fights the 3F8 that he received in July. HAMA is a positive sign in that it may mean the patient is developing an immune response against the Neuroblastoma. Next week he has another round of Rituxan and a round of Cyclophosphamide (2 days at JDCH). These treatments assist in the abrogation of the HAMA response. Once the HAMA subsides, we will schedule a week-long trip to Sloan. I have included a link below regarding Matts therapy. mskcc.org/pediatrics/childhood/neuroblastoma/3f8-monoclonal-antibody-therapy-faqs He is attempting to go to school every day and keep up with as much school work as possible while home. We couldnt be more proud of him as he continues to face the ongoing challenges of his protocol and fighting this disease and are looking forward to continuous reports of NED! Thanks for all the continuous thoughts, prayers and support for Matt and our family. No Retreat, No Surrender Love & Peace, Dan
Posted on: Wed, 03 Dec 2014 14:20:21 +0000
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