Information on Services

I wanted to let all know that the following dates and times are for Gina's services.

• Tuesday,  February. 2nd, 2010: Visitation at Clancy-Gernon in Bourbonnais from 4pm to 8pm.

•  Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010:  Mass at St. Joseph Church in Bradley at 11am.

Peaceful Post

Saturday, January 30th, 2010.

Late last night, Gina Angela Mason, left this world and took GOD by his graceful hand and earned her wings. I always hoped that I would never have to sit here and type these words out. Like everyone else, I hoped and prayed that this website was here and maintained as a temporary way to keep everyone she loved informed of her progress. The name itself, "Gina's Victory Page", was specially chosen as it was always hopeful that time would heal her body and this was just one way to help everyone stay connected and aid Gina in her road to recovery.  Sadly, I am writing today to tell all that Gina is now in HEAVEN and still smiling down on each and every one of us. Only this time, Gina has wings and a halo that will allow her to help millions of people in need.

Gina left with me close by - holding her beautiful face, whispering it's okay and I will NEVER let her go as she is always in my heart and soul. I told Gina about all the lovely followers and friends, family and strangers that she touched on a daily basis with her smiles and kind words. Gina did finally get her peace and I finally had my prayers answered of her no longer suffering. Please all remember her as who she was when you shared her laughter and kind words - that is what she always wanted to do was make others feel good.

I will post once more when I know the time and dates for her services. Please keep the family in your prayers in our time of mourning. Thanks to all of you for being there for all of us.

GOD BLESS GINA! 

The Days and Nights are

Friday, 01/29/2010

The days and nights seem to blend seamlessly together. It's ironic how sometimes you are constantly reminded of the time and others (like now) you lose sight of the hours and days. Life is a precious gift that I will never take for granted. The people that come and go in our lives affect us in more ways than we realize. I know what it is like to find a special connection with someone who touches your very soul. The times both good and bad that you share with that special person are etched forever in you heart and soul. My love for Gina is based on all of those beautiful memories we shared as a couple and as best friends. I am grateful to have been truly blessed with Gina in my life, hand-in-hand and why I can truly call her my one and only soulmate!

Updates from Day 22 in ICU

• Gina's heart rate is all over the place - jumping from lov 50 or 60's to 150's and even 170's! The blood pressure is mostly steady but she has trouble getting oxygen.
• Gina still has a lot of fluid built up in her chest area and I feel it must make it very difficult for her heart to pump the blood and oxygen correctly. I feel so helpless watching her hour after hour with so many problems and for the first time I can remember, I feel truly helpless towards her. I do what I can to rub her head, whisper how much she means to me and how loved she is by family & friends alike. I really think she is able to hear my words and that they give her a bit of comfort inside that lonely place she is now.
• I pray endlessley to GOD to give her the peace and comfort she so desperatley needs! I keep my Faith up although it is too hard to understand why or how I can with so much going on with my wife.
• It is very difficult for all the family to watch Gina who was always so young and free-spirited! You all said it exactly right - that beautiful smile of hers lit the room like a million candles in the darkest night. I keep that image inside my head and when the tears can no longer be held back, I think of that smile and how it made made all around feel so good inside.
• Gina always tried her best to make those she met feel better about themselves. The amazing thing is she did it so effortlessly and modestly. Remember Gina for that day she picked you up, or that lap arounf Bishop McNamara when she could barely walk from the car to the campsite on relay day! That is what Gina needs to feel free, happy friends and family thinking of her again.
• I think it is getting closer to the time that GOD feels he needs Gina more in Heaven with him then we down here with us. I try not to be selfish when I ask GOD why now and I remind myself of the beautiful life I shared with her.
• I will keep all posted as often as I can but know that the next few days feel like they are going to be an eternity that passes at the speed of light.

GOD Bless all and keep the prayers coming!

Riverside ICU Updates

01/27/2010: Updates from RMC

• Gina has had a rough couple of nights here at Riverside. Her pain has come back on and off and we think it may be that her tolerance level has adjusted to the medicines given to her.
• Dr. McDonald is back (yeah!) and she seemed amazed too that Gina has 'adjusted" to the medicine in the few days she was absent.
• We are back to the challenge of making adjustments to current meds (Versed, Dilaudid, and Haldol) and possibly considering trying something else. The IV's and push meds have been increased; however, since they are given at such a concentrated amount now, Gina has to have her vitals constantly monitored.
• Dr. McDonald and some of us talked last night about some other ideas for medicines being given to Gina. We are all still on the same page though, that we do not want Gina to have any more pain
  
• The staff has been trying their best to keep Gina comfortable and with as little pain as possible. That is a challenge, it seems, and is a constant battle. As soon as Gina gets a little rest, she goes right back to having pain.
• I thank all of you that have respected our wishes to keep Gina in your prayers and ask for relief.
• We are still trying to keep visitors to only the immediate family since Gina has had little rest. I feel that Gina would rather be remembered for the way we all know her - smiling, perky and beautiful.

As usual, I will keep all posted and keep praying for peace for our Gina!   8)

From Riverside Where an Angel is watching over us

Updates for Friday, January 22, 2010

• Gina had a rough time just two nights ago here, Some type of error led to one of Gina's IV pumps going from a low doseage to almost what appears to be 10x the prescribed amount during an increase in doseage! As usual, Gina fought through it all and with the caring arms of Dr. McDonald, Gina was stabilized again. Looking into it as I know that we do not want it to happen to anyone else. I also know Gina would never let something go unanswered without questioning it and getting a comforting response.
• I never wanted this to end, certainly not where Gina was still fighting and in pain until her last breaths. I think without Dr. McDonald's blessed hands and warm, compassionate heart, it would be an even harder journey here. Thanks to you Dr. McDonald and for GOD putting you in our path. Also to the staff that goes the extra distance and feels with their hearts not just works through their hands - thanks!
• Gina's heartrate had been in the 50's to 60's and blood pressure low but not alarming. She is better now and more comfortable again.
• It seems Gina is getting the basic comforts eventhough she is in a hospital bed - such as, cleaned up, hair washed, clean linens, etcetera. We love the extra special touches that some of the staff has shown to her here - from making sure she lays on her comfortable side, putting her head on her own pillow I brought from home, and making sure her stuffed friend, "George" has been right under her arm. I feel that sometimes it is the little things that make the big things easier to go through.
• The kids are hanging in there - they have their good and bad moments. As hard as it is for me being a grown man, I can only imagine what they are going through. I keep them talking to me as much as I can and share my shoulder to cry on or lend an ear to hear what they have to say. The whole family has had quite an exhausting and stressful two weeks but I do not think we think about it since we are so busy with the praying and comforting up here in ICU.

I read some of these posts and I never really wanted this site to turn into a "facebook" or "myspace" page as it is a means of communicating with loved ones, family and friends alike. (I do not mean that in a bad way as she has both of those sites as well.) With this in mind, I only ask to not worry about meals being prepared as we are fine and it is so unpredictable with our schedules at this time. I do thank those that have given their time and helped with the gift cards in the past. We take evrything one-day-at-a-time now as it is these moments we live right now that make us who we are. This family has been very supportive and connected and I think Gina can feel that and take comfort and smile knowing this. For all that know Gina, this is how she lived her life - Family was first priority and she instilled that into all she met.

Thanks again all - the words and special stories are being read to Gina as often as I can and I think it helps ease her mind knowing she is so loved and cared for.

Riverside Update from ICU

Wednesday, January 20th, 2010.

New Updates from ICU on Gina

• Gina's weekend was pretty good. I think she finally got some much needed rest where she had more than her normal four hours. I think she finally slept most of a day and part of next without much pain interfering with her slumber.
• The heartrate and blood pressure has been pretty consistent; although, we had at least two or three scares where her heart was only low 30's and an uncomfortable pause in her heartbeats.
• The medicine was adjusted and she seems to have been doing well the last few days. Ironically, but not surprisingly, Gina seems to already be developing a slight tolerance for the meds; eventhough her levels of doesage are way up there.
• Although it seems Gina is struggling each day physically, her spirit and mind are both driving on and not wanting to give up. For all of us that know and spent some time with Gina, this is no surprise as she is known for her high spirits and iron will.
• I took some extra time tonight, while alone in Gina's room and stood next to her bedside, holding her hand or rubbing her cheeks and began to read the posts you have all put on this page. I can barely read any of the posts straight through, without tears welling up or running down my cheeks. I think the tears are not only because of the kind and loving words you wrote, but, also because I can see myself with Gina when most of those memories were being made.
• It is so hard to picture a world without Gina. It is even more devastating to try and imagine what life will be like without my beautiful wife and best friend there by my side. I prayed a thousand times over for answers to why it is this way - no response was given. I know GOD is up there and listening and although my Faith is being tested every moment, I try to keep my chin up and tell myself there is a greater plan for Gina.
• Gina has had some very challenging struggles through this battle with such a hateful disease. I know she made us all a little bit stronger and helped those she touched to dig a little deeper and overcome many things. I thank all of you for being there - from the words on this post to the anonymous gift cards left at our doorstep. You are all very much appreciated and loved. I know one of my faults is not knowing when to ask for help but I am ever so grateful for all of you that are standing by just waiting for that day. Thanks again to each and every one of you.

I will try to keep the updates coming as often as possible. I thank all of you for being there and the whole family has been here supporting Gina and sitting here with her daily. God bless you all!

What A Beautiful Sound

Riverside Intensive Care Update 01/15/2010

• What a beautiful sound I am hearing while I watch Gina sleeping. The sound of her breathing in such a relaxed state is music to my ears! It has been over a week now since she has been able to sleep for more than a few hours. (finally some peace)
• Well, Gina had a great day in the sense that her pain has been a bit more under control today. The nurses and Dr. McDonald have been fabulous these past couple of days. It is such a fine line between comfort and pain and balancing it all with the right doesage of medicine without overdoing it.
• It seems like Gina has gotten her blood pressure back up, her respiration rate is doing a little better and her heartrate has been pretty calm.
• I worked today, to give my tired mind a rest from all of this, and to just get caught up.
• Today, I am thanking GOD for all the time in my life that I have had with Gina - although I wished I had an eternity. I also asked GOD  why such a loving, caring woman that gave so much of herself to so many people has to endure so much pain and restlesness? I know the answer isn't an easy one to give, so I wait for His humble words to comfort my ears.
• I sit here in the hospital room tonight with my son, Riley, and just watch over Gina like a shepherd does to his flock. Always listening ever so carefully for any sounds of discomfort, watching patiently for any movements that would indicate pain and whispering little words of reassurance in Gina's ears -that I will always be with her, as she is with me, and even the boundaries between Heaven and Earth cannot keep us apart.
• Eventhough her eyes are closed and shes sleeping, I look at my beautiful wife and see those blue eyes and that perfect smile and remember the the first day we met. It was such a connection that words cannot describe how I felt - my heart beats were like drums pounding in the night, and my soul was like a diving into a pool of fire. I have so much love, passion and respect for Gina that it is an eternal feeling and a connection that can never be broken. Thanks GOD for giving me Gina and I pray she no longer suffers and is able to take her many talents and endless compassion and spread her Angel wings over the many tired and lonely souls of the world. I am trying ever so hard to stay strong and keep the chin up for my family, and myself. I also pray that GOD gives me and the rest of the family the strength to get through this.

Thanks to each and every one of you for your kind and loving words. I see new posts from unfamiliar names as well as from old friends. I think this nightly ritual of reading the many beautiful posts has been a blessing to all family members as well as to each other. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. and thank you!

Riverside Update from ICU

Keeping you informed 01/14/2010

• Gina's been having a heck of a time trying to stay comfortable, despite all the efforts of her wonderful nurses and staff these last couple of days.
• I know in my heart the main contributing factor is Gina doesn't want to let go of life (which is I struggle with as well). Gina loves her family, GOD and continues every second to stay strong and fight through the pain.
• I cannot imagine what Gina is going through and how alone she feels as she is so free-spirited and always seems to find good in all she meets or sees.
• I never in my life have met any single person that has the inner strength and determination that my Gina does. I tell her every time I hold her close to me that she is the strongest woman I know.
• I have been trying to tell her that all is okay, not to worry about me or the kids or her family and friends. I know it is a huge burden she is trying to carry and she must fear others doing it all without her. I cannot imagine life without my soulmate there by my side but still find the courage and strength to tell her it will be okay and to just try and relax.
• Gina's had some rough nights and days with the pain coming as unpredictable as the ugliness this cancer has become. I know her pain management consists mainly of a balancing act and all is guided through the careful hands and watchful eyes of Dr. McDonald. with this in mind we all try to keep the Faith and pray to GOD he has mercy for Gina and ease her pain.
• The pain meds Gina is getting makes it very hard to get rest as she has very high doses as it is necessary to try to control her pain. I know it has been hard for all of you to just sit and wait or sit idly by, but as a result of her pain we all feel it is better for Gina to get her rest and relaxation whenever possible.
• They ran some tests to check if Gina was having any type of seizures and they came back negative - so no seizure activity present. That little bit of good news is a breath of fresh air to us all. We welcome anything positive at this point, no matter how big or small it may be.

As always, I thank all of you for your wonderful thoughts and posts. I know that Gina would read your comments and feel a little stronger inside and take comfort knowing she has so many friends and loved ones in her life. I am truly amazed at the new "faces" posted and feel blessed to have good people like all of you in our lives. Thanks a million times over for all of you love and support!

Quick Update To Ease Your Minds

Riverside Intensive Care Unit, WED 01/13/2010

Just wanted to send a quick update to all of you wonderful and loving supporters out there. You have all been such a blessing and it feels so good for Gina, the kids and myself to know you are right there by our sides through those good and now trying times.

• Gina still having a difficult time with the pain; even though our lil angel (Dr Lynn McDonald) has spent many, many tireless hours trying to get Gina comfortable.
• It is no surprise to all who know Gina, that she is VERY strong-willed and has remarkable sense of courage - even with all the meds she has in her to help ease her pain, she will NOT stop fighting and does not wish to let go of life.
• I've always believed that there is a 'special' place in Heaven's gates where people with Gina's strong Faith and loving heart ends up at. I just have a very difficult time knowing that time is now, or close to it and I cannot seem to let her go.
• I do know that Gina is truly the one woman in my life that I have felt makes me complete and has become one with my heart and soul - a true definition of what a soulmate is.
• The doctor met today with us and basically is still trying to turn over each stone to see what can be done to ease Gina's pain and make her as peaceful and comfortable as possible.
• We were told that it could be just a couple of days on Saturday night and now it seems it is still another couple of days or "until the Good LORD calls her home".
• My one and only request to the staff here as well as GOD is to make her last few days here as peaceful and pain free as can be.
• I know in my heart that there will never be another person as special to me as Gina is and I am truly blessed for each and every waking moment I have with her.
• As I sit here in the hospital typing this to you all, the tears are uncontrollably running down my cheeks and yet I take comfort in knowing I was given a slice of "Heaven on Earth" to have by my side such a beautiful woman, both inside and out, to share these last 18 years with.

Please keep Gina and the kids (who are struggling through these difficult times) in you thoughts and prayers. I am so very grateful to have the people I do in my life and owe a great deal of it all to my wife, my best friend and my everlasting soulmate, Gina. I do hold onto Gina and whisper in her ears how much I love her and tell her everything is going to be okay. I also tell her of all the wonderful people that are praying for her each and every day.

--- thanks to all of you

Riverside Medical Center

01/10/2010: Gina's progress and condition

December 2009

• On December 17, 2009 Gina was admitted to ER for pneumonia and had about a week in hospital with antibiotics. She was allowed to go home before Christmas with IV in her port pumping in antibiotics.
• The Home HealthCare staff have been excellent in easing our minds and answering the many, many questions we have. I was shown how to change her antibiotics through her IV and flush her port. After about a week of ported IV antibiotics, Gina was allowed to go on oral antibiotics and no more pumping through her port. (Yay!)
• Unfortunately, as a result of the antibiotics that Gina is taking, she had to be taken off ALL chemotherapy (Avastin IV and oral Tykerb).

Updates for January 2010.

• Oh where to start? Let's see, on Thursday, January 7, 2010, I had to call 911 as Gina was in a lot of pain, hallucinating and falling a lot, and getting very little sleep.
• Just quick note, Gina has been pretty much bed-ridden and needs assistance getting around. Thanks God for recliners as we got rid of our couch and got two new recliners. We figured with help of nurses that all the laying around Gina does in bed is not good for her. So, we decided to lose the couch, get the recliners and Gina could at least sit up, even if reclining, and be with the family. Worked pretty good as it gives her piece of mind being out of room with other family members and sitting upright.
• I've been helping her to eat, giving meds, trying to take care of her as best I could. it never seems like I can do enough to make her comfortable so I spoke to nurses and had to call 911 and have her admitted to Riverside in hopes of managing her pain, making her feel comfortable and figuring out whats wrong.
• Well Gina's been in Riverside for three days now and she had to get moved to Intensive Care Unit last night (Saturday). They have been trying to get her pain under control since she has been crying and moaning for last three days here; even though, shes been heavily sedated.
• I cannot stand to see her suffer so I asked they do what they can to give her some comfort. After speaking to all the family members, it was decided to let her go to ICU. Since last night, it has been a long night, around 1230am - 100am, she was still in pain and fighting the meds. Gina finally, finally got some rest and peace and quiet as is sleeping as we speak.
• I wanted to take a moment to mention a very special angel in our lives right now and her name is Dr. Macdonald. I know in my heart she is doing all she can to ease Gina's pain and make her as comfortable as possible. Thanks to her and all the staff here at Riverside.

At this time, I ask that all friends, family members and loved ones hold off on calling or stopping by Riverside as I just pray she gets some rest and relaxation. the doctor said it looks like we are at the end of our journey and I need to come to terms with all of this. It is true what they say when you finally find someone you love more than life itself, it is impossible to let go just like that. Gina is, AND ALWAYS WILL BE, the love of my life and my eternal soulmate.

I thank all of you for the years of support, caring and unmeasurable love you have shown my wife. Keep praying for a miracle as it is all I am told I have left. The kids still have to be told, except for Jesse so please let me be the one. We are all praying for one last miracle and I cannot accept this all right now. still trying to figure it all out and make sense of it all.

Will keep you all posted. --- love, Bob & Family

Cancer Treatment Centers of America

Monday, October 26th, 2009 Visit to Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA)

• Sunday 10/25/09 we drove up to Zion, IL for a visit to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (or CTCA) to see if we could get some help with Gina's cancer treatment.
• The CTCA uses both traditional and innovative approaches to cancer treatment by treating the whole person - not just the disease.
• Try clicking on link above to learn more about the CTCA. Today (MON) we had 1st visit, met staff, spoke to nurses and doctor and ended day with MUGA (heart) scan.
• We will keep you posted as week goes on. Busy schedule for tomorrow, Tuesday 10/27/09. Gina meets with nutritionist, naturopathy dept., and had MRI, CT scans of chest, abdomen and pelvis and a bone scan - all ending around 9pm.
• We meet with nurses and oncologist on WED at 2pm to see what plans they have for Gina's treatments.

Added CTCA updates:

• Gina had CT scans of chest, abdomen, pelvis and MRI of brain as well as a bone scan. All tests showed Ginas tumors were stable or smaller according to the reports. follow up in January with CTCA.

New Updates for October 4th, 2009

Updates

• Gina had her third round of the Avastin and Herceptin chemo last Thursday
• Still having pain in rt leg and using crutches to get around but spirits are up and hair coming back.
• Gina trying to work on tremors taking the max of meds for the tremors but not as effective as you would think but Gina wants to continue taking them.
• Going to see Dr Nicholas on October 16 and Dr Jimenez on October 6.
• Still trying to get the swelling in brain down but hoping Avastin will continue to help with more treatments.
• Gina's voice seems better but sounds weak as she has been getting really tired with the tremor meds and all the rest too!
• We will keep you posted and keep the prayers coming.

Thanks to all of you.

Dr Sipahi Visit

Results on 09/03/2009

• Gina met w/ Dr Sipahi today and went over her MRI and CT scans from Tuesday 09/01/09
• The good news was that the liver and both lungs decreased in size (Yeah!)
• The bad news was the MRI showed no change or stable in mid-brain region BUT increase in size in rear, left brain area and swelling observed (Boo!)
• Gina stopped taking the Ixempra since it was tearing her up so bad and we do not think she would have been physically or emotionaly been able to do an third treatment of the Ixempra chemotherapy.
• Dr Sipahi switched Gina from Ixempra to Avastin (breaks blood/brain barrier) and restricts blood flow to tumor cells thus causing it to stop growing. Avastin may block the tumor's ability to communicate with nearby blood vessels and may prevent the tumor from connecting to the blood supply.
• Avastin is the one chemo that Dr Nicholas, neuro-oncologist from the University of Chicago Medical Center, recommended. Dr Nicholas said Avastin should help with tremors Gina has been having and help to reduce the swelling in the brain.
• Avastin is given by IV every two weeks - 90 mins 1st dose, 60mins 2nd dose, 30 mins each dose after I believe is how it works.
  
• Dr Sipahi also stopped the Herecptin (Gina has been on for a long time) and switched her back to the Tykerb (An oral chemotherapy drug). Tykerb also breaks through the blood/brain barrier.
• Gina was also given Procrit by Dr Sipahi - for low red blood cell count.
• We are off to see Dr Nicholas at UCMC tomorrow at 0900 HRS so I will let you know what happens when I can
  

New Information

08/25/2009 - New Information on Progress

• Gina saw Dr Sipahi again last Thursday for the second round of Ixempra chemotherapy.
• To be honest with you, this chemo is very, VERY strong and makes Gina very weak, tired and nauseous. We are supposed to do three cycles but not thinking we can.
  
• We tried it since it was supposed to help with the kidney tumors but we do not see or think it is working like it should. Scans are coming up again to see where we are with everything.
  
• Gina wants to go ahead and try the Avastin chemotherapy since it is said to break through the blood-brain barrier and may help with the tremors she has been having. We are not sure what we will do next to try and get rid of that kidney tumor that has been causing so much problems. Maybe embolism - cauterizing the main blood flow to the kidney to essentially 'starve' it and without the blood flowing, kill the tumor cells.
• More later when it comes so thanks for everything you keep doing for us.
• A little late, but whoever sent the anonymous gift card for gas and groceries - we humbly thank you and your families.
  

Jesse (oldest boy) and his wife Kayla, just brought their first little bundle of joy into this world this morning at 1203am, Tuesday, August 25th, 2009. Her name is Elizabeth Rae Denault and she weighs in at 6lbs, 3oz and was 20 inches long! WE ARE OFFICIALLY GRANDPARENTS!

GOD Bless to all and thanks for the support!

Dr Sipahi Visit for Chemo Round #2

Updates as of 08/15/2009

• Gina saw Dr Sipahi for second round of chemotherapy (Ixempra) this last Thursday.
• Dr Sipahi also gave her Zometa for the bones and said will schedule scans in September to see how the new chemo is doing
• The new chemo is VERY STRONG and seems to wipe all energy from Gina's body 8(
• After her visit to Dr Sipahi, Dr Nicholas from UCMC called and said he had been out of office but just talked to Dr Sipahi and came up with a game plan
• They had talked and decided that Avastin would be an excellent chemo to give to Gina as it also helps with swelling in the brain and I believe breaks the blood-brain barrier.
• However, since Gina is still having some bleeding problems suspected to be from the tumor in the kidney, they are going to keep going with the Ixempra to see if it works on kidney.
• Dr Nicholas also said him and Dr Sipahi discussed radiation to kidney. Gina is against any more radiation since she has already had it done numerous times to: both lungs, brain, upper back, and leg.
• More later after this coming Thursday, when Gina goes to Dr Sipahi again for Herceptin treatment (been three weeks already?)
• The steroid (decadron) was reduced to 1/2 mg (YAY!) but we are hoping to get completely off so we can try that trial in Indy (or wherever else they have it)

Trip To Indy on 08/05/2009

We went to University of Indiana today and spoke to fabulous doctor Kathleen Miller

• Gina unfortunately does not qualify for the new Herceptin Clinical Trial because she is still on Decadron (steroid that helps with brain swelling from radiation and tumors in brain)
• It was disappointing for us both but Dr Miller explained the clinical trial is very specific in who qualifies for it
• One criteria is no chemo for 20 days and another was no radiation or brain issues (steroids or changes to brain tumors) within last 60 days
• Dr Miller and her staff were AWESOME - bedside manner, personality and obviously very knowledgeable in Oncology (kinda reminded us of Dr Kelly Nicholas in Chicago)
• Dr Miller agreed with keeping Gina on new chemotherapy (Ixempra) for another cycle and then do scans to see if it is working (next Thursday is cycle #2)
  
• A suggestion was to try new chemotherapy called Doxil which is basically a form of chemotherapy that actually is one of the few that attacks cancer all over the body INCLUDING breaking the blood-brain barrier and getting into the brain to treat those tumors. It sounded very promising as it is structured in a way that it the coating allows DOXIL to evade detection and destruction by the immune system, which increases the time the drug is in the body. The majority of the drug stays inside the liposome while in the blood (at least 90%). Therefore, DOXIL has more time to reach the tumor tissue, where the medication slowly leaks out.
  
• Keeping our fingers crossed that the brain is getting better and we may be able to start the clinical trial at a later date (or that the new chemo now, Ixemra, does it's job and kills those cancer cells!
• University of Indiana was a very impressive facility from the staff working inside, to the building itself (calming, structured and efficient)

More later on where we are at after consulting Dr. Sipahi, Dr. Olopade, and Dr. Nicholas.

Dr Nicholas Visit at UCMC

07/24/2009: trip to University of Chicago medical center to see Dr. Nicholas (neuro-oncologist)

• We saw Dr Nicholas yesterday for follow-up since last brain treatments (the gamma-knife to rear of brain and the IMRT radiation to the mid-brain area).
• Dr. Kelly Nicholas was amazing (as usual) and provided us with promising and insightful ideas
• Dr. Nicholas suggested we try Avastin which one of the few FDA approved chemo therapies that breaks the blood/brain barrier. It was explained that since the brain is such a complex and highly evolved organ that very few things an pass the blood/brain barrier and target the brain specifically.
• Dr. Nicholas also told us that the Avastin would also be able to help with all the radiation done to Gina's brain and aid in healing/swelling.
• Dr. Nicholas and a colleague both examined Gina to see what they could to do to help with the head tremors. They decided the current medication she takes for it should be increased slightly as it seemed to help at initial dosage. The good news is that Gina seemed pleased and/or relieved (like the rest of us) after seeing Dr. Nicholas.
• Dr. Nicholas had spoke with Dr. Olopade about the Herceptin trial in Indianapolis and said they were very good doctors there and would give us straight answers about questions or concerns we have about the trial.(Gina would have to stop all chemo/radiation for around 3-6 weeks before doing the trial so we are undecided what to do until August 5th, 2009 when we go to Indianapolis for the clinical trial consultation.
• Dr. Nicholas also spoke to Dr. Sipahi and is keeping in touch with him and even did some research on the new chemotherapy Gina started yesterday called Ixempra. the Ixempra seems to be very strong so far to Gina and is supposed to help with all metastatic breast cancer in the body, including the kidney that has the tumor that had grown significantly. Gina is scheduled to take the Ixempra every three weeks by IV.
• Gina will have Herceptin next week with Dr. Sipahi and his wonderful staff.

Keep you posted on the clinical trial coming up in August and other appointments.

Radiation Over

07/19/2009 Updates and News

• Radiation to both lungs and the liver are finished. Special Thanks to UCMC and Dr Salama and his staff for their work. Follow-up in two months to see what progress was made. The radiation still continues to work after the radiation is done being given.
• We see Dr. Nicholas (neurology oncologist) at UCMC this Friday (07/24/09) to figure out what is going on since IMRT radiation to mid-brain and the Gamma-knife surgery to spot on rear of brain. Gina's been having speech issues, problems with her vision, and "tremors" (what we refer to when her head shakes back and forth continuously). Hopefully good news is coming and solutions to tremors, speech and vision.
• Gina saw Dr Byhani later referred to him by Dr Sipahi for pains in her right side. The results were very good to hear - no problems with urethra, or bladder. Issued with side pains may be caused from kidney tumor.
• Bad News - Kidney tumor has "grown significantly" and waiting to see what we need to do to fix that and what our options are. KEEP FINGERS CROSSED AND PRAYERS COMING.
• We also go to Indianapolis, Indiana for a consultation on August 5th, 2009. There is a new Herecptin and chemotherapy combination trial going on nationwide and Gina seems to be a good candidate for this new treatment. It sounds like it is a stronger type of Herceptin BUT has chemotherapy attached to it. Was explained the new treatment is the car, the Herceptin is the driver of the car, and the chemotherapy attached is the passengers. When the car gets to the tumor cells, the Herceptin drives into the cell and the chemotherapy "passengers" then get out of the car and attack the tumors right on the spot. A lot more advanced and faster than traditional methods used. We will keep you posted as we know more. The clinic tells us if we can start, when we can start and all the other details.

A special thanks to David, Renee and their family for their generosity. It is so hard for us to be humble and accept anything from our friends but wanted all to know that we appreciate all the prayers, thoughts and acts of kindness that are given to us throughout this struggle. GOD is truly an amazing 'person' who seems to put the right people in your path in life when you need them most. We LOVE and thank you all for your support. GOD BLESS! 8)

-- Bob, Gina and Family

New Surgeries at University of Chicago

MON 06/29/2009

hello to all. we have started new radio-static surgery to both lungs and the liver. radio-static surgery is similar to the gamma-knife surgery gina had before. gina had a mold made of her body and she lays in there while the doctors and physicists perform the radiation treatments to specific areas in her lungs and liver. i have provided a short list of ginas schedules and we already are on our second treatment of six as i type this. keep us in your prayers as gina said this is the hardest and MOST PAINFUL of all treatments so far. i am praying for GOD to guide the surgeons careful hands and give gina the strength and courage to fight (and also the humility to know she has to rest). love you all - keep up those prayers and all the support.

schedule for radio-static surgeries at UCMC

• THU 06/25 liver radiated


• MON 06/29 both lungs radiated


• TUE 06/30 liver


• THU 07/02 lungs


• MON 07/06 liver


• TUE 07/07 lungs

WE WILL BE DONE ON TUESDAY JULY 7TH, 2009 AND CAN SAY GOOD-BYE TO THOSE THREE TUMORS 4EVER! the next step? We are looking into a new type of herceptin trial that we heard about going on Indiana and are considering doing this next to get rid of any other tumors in other parts of the body. If you don't remember, the Herceptin drug has been the one CONSTANT treatment and I think it is doing it's job. if you want to see how it works again then click here How herceptin Works. After watching the video just click your back button to return to this page. We will keep you posted and thanks again for all you guys do!

News from the Masons

06/09/2009

So we have some news for everyone....

• Gina finished her last radiation to her leg yesterday and is also done with radiation to neck/back area. (Yeah!)
• After talking to Dr Schwartz and Dr Olopade, we have been told there is a doctor friend/associate of Dr Schwartz at the University of Chicago Medical Center that may be able to help with liver and both lungs.
• Gina and I met with Dr. Salama at UCMC on Friday, 06/05/09 for a consultation and were glad to hear that Gina can have surgery called radio-static surgery to lungs and liver that has @ 80% chance to get rid of these tumors.
  
• I placed a link for radio-static surgery. In a nutshell, it is basically a very concentrated dose of radiation to specific location of body. The dose is calculated and very precise to give maximum results. There are possible side effects such as ulcers, pneumonia in lung(s) and a possible lung collapse. After talking to Dr Salama, he stated Gina has an air pocket in one of her lungs that the tumor is pressing against. This means, it is possible that the lung could collapse once that tumor is radiated and was compared to ripping a band aid off wound causing it to bleed. The doctor did say that he has done many, many of these procedures and UCMC has been performing them successfully sine 2004! amazing.
  
• We went back to UCMC on Monday, 06/08/09 and Gina was marked and measured for surgery - she had tattoos marked for reference points instead of marker lines and said they really hurt. Gina will hopefully start the radiation (radio-static) in next couple of weeks. We have been told that Gina will probably have three doses to liver and five or six doses to lungs. More on this when we talk to doctor.
• Other than that, Gina is doing well but very tired. Of course, it has been almost two years since treatments have begun so who wouldn't be tired?!?

Relay For Life of Kankakee County is this Saturday, June 14th and starts at 2pm. Please come and support Gina and her teams (The Dream Believers, dream Believer 2, and Dream Believer Kidz) as well as The American Cancer Society. See you there.

More News

MON 05/18/2009

• Gina just had a bone scan done as she was having some pain in her leg and the results were not good - there now is cancer growth in neck and upper back areas and again in right leg.
• We do not feel that the new chemotherapy (Gemzar) is doing anything positive for Gina so we will have to see what Dr Olopade decides to change to next on 05/27/09.
• Dr Schwartz saw Gina today and decided she needs to have radiation to new areas (rt. leg, back and neck areas) and will be prepping for it tomorrow.
• Dr Schwartz is the Radiologist that did both Gamma Knife surgeries and IMRT Radiation to brain.Dr Schwartz also setting up a visit to colleague he knows at University of Chicago Medical Center that can do radio static surgery (like gamma knife, but for organs) to Gina's liver as there is concern of tumor growth in that area as well.
• Gina also having CT scans of chest, abdomen and pelvic areas tomorrow to see how she is responding to the Herceptin, Tykerb and Gemzar treatments.
• There was some good news that her recent MRI scan showed the mid-brain tumor appears to continue to shrink and the one recently operated in rear of brain inactive and shrunk (possibly just scar tissue now)

will keep you all posted on latest news and thank you for your support. Keep those prayers coming!

Back To Dr Sipahi Today

05/07/09 updates

• We went to see Dr Sipahi today and he thinks with Gina having double-vision again, slurred speech, and headaches in back of head we need to go back to Dex (Boo!)
• Dr Sipahi also ordered a bonescan and MRI to make sure no new tumors or growth
• Gina had Gemzar and an Iron Infusion today - Really makes her tired
• This makes it the 5th of 6 Gemzar treatments then back top See Dr Olopade on May 27th.
• Gina still having Herceptin every three weeks and Zometa
• we will be making another appointment with Dr Nicholas at Univ Chicago also

Thanks for all the followers and, especially, for your PRAYERS and thoughtful words.

Much Needed Information

WED 04/15/2009

Sorry to all for being behind on the Posts. I wish I could say I have a reason for it, but, I know it is just an excuse either way I say it. I really want to keep everyone up to date with Gina so here is that long overdue information on her progress.

• Gina had fallen a few weeks ago when the family dog accidentally got underneath her legs and tripped her which caused her to fall pretty hard and hurt her right leg to the point that we had to see a doctor. After an X-ray and scan showed a fracture to the same leg the rod was put into, we were told by two different doctors that it was an old fracture (possibly from the surgery when she had titanium rod put in leg). The pain was said to be from the impact of the fall. Anyway, Gina is doing better with that leg but still hurts her.
• All went well with the second Gamma knife surgery to rear brain and the IMRT Radiation to mid-brain is supposed to have decreased in size according to the scans. The rest of tumors have remained the same except for the liver grew a little. With the brain treatments, we had to stop chemo since you cannot do both radiation and chemotherapy.
• Gina's treatment has been up and down. We have switched the chemo after talking with Dr. Olopade to Gemzar (link on this page) and Herceptin and Tykerb (pill form). The Gemzar is taken once a week for three weeks then one week off. Gina will do this for two cycles then have scans to see if it is working on killing those cancer cells. Tomorrow, Thursday 04/16/09, is the last of the 1st cycle and Gina will get a little break for one week. This treatment of Gemzar has been really tough with all the side effects and VERY TIRING for her. It has been 18 months of treatments, surgeries and medications so it is no surprise that Gina's body is exhausted.
• I hate to post this but if it will help Gina to rest I feel I have to do it. She has been very tired and not up to having company dropping by. We REALLY do appreciate the goodwill with meals being offered but we do not need them at this time. In fact, it helps Gina knowing she is able to cook for her family still. The one person that keeps us going is GOD and I thank him every day that I have with my family and know it his HIM that will make Gina cancer free. I just keep praying for the strength and courage until the day comes when Gina is CANCER FREE!

THANKS TO ALL AND GOD BLESS!!! 8)

Almost There!

Updates from 02/23/2009

• Gina saw Dr Schwartz today and he is working on getting a PET scan done (Reminder-a PET scan is scan of whole body from head to knees)
• Some concerns with Gina's right leg, having pain from hip to knee (same leg that was radiated and operated on in Sept 2007)
• Only FOUR more IMRT Radiations to brain (all done on Thursday) <>
• Another Brain MRI to see how Gamma Knife surgery to rear brain and IMRT Radiation to mid-brain has worked (I know it had to attack & completely eliminate cancer)
• Gina also sees Dr Jimenez on Thursday for follow-up to Gamma Knife
• Also, Gina still continuing Chemotherapy every three weeks - consisting of Herceptin, Zometa and Iron Infusion
• Tykerb (oral Chemotherapy) still taking daily

That's all for now but as you can see it is a lot on our plates.

Thanks for those who volunteered to bring or have brought meals but although we appreciate you all SO MUCH, making dinner is one thing that makes Gina feel like she is still needed and contributing to family. I also LOVE her cooking and think she is the best thing that happened to me!

Gamma Knife on 02/12/2009

Ravenswood Hospital Surgery


Gina and I went to The Neurologic & Orthopedic Hospital of Chicago (formerly Ravenswood) today for the Gamma Knife Radiosurgery

• Arrived at 0545 am and checked in


• Started prep for surgery at @ 0630 am


• Dr Schwartz (Radiologist), Dr Jimenez (Neurologist), and Dr Mkrdichian (Nuerosurgeon) were present for surgery


• Dr Jimenez attached the metal frame to Gina's head @ 0800 am - keeps her head from moving while the Gamma Knife procedure is performed (See photo above)


• Gina spoke to Dr Schwartz and Dr Jimenez about procedure and then went for her MRI of the brain at @ 0930 am


• The Gamma Knife Radiosurgery was done at @ 1100 am and took around five treatments
• Surgery seemed to go well and I spoke to Dr Schwartz & Dr Jimenez who both said they felt everything went well and it was a difference between 'night & day' as compared to Gamma Knife done in Sept 2007 to mid-brain area
• The frame was removed and then Gina had a good lunch, and the nurses checked her over and she seemed to be doing good
• Gina & I went home after released from hospital and back into town around 4 pm
• The staff were unbelievably AWESOME at Ravenswood - Thanks for all the extra attention and for your outstanding devotion to your work

Doctors orders are to REST, REST, and more REST to Gina. A follow-up with Dr Jimenez in few weeks and Gina continuing the IMRT to mid-brain in town with Dr Schwartz office.

THANKS TO ALL FOR YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT! We owe a lot to all of you for keeping up with our progress and THANK G-O-D for all his healing touch to our beautiful Gina and especially for destroying the tumor in the back of brain today!

Keep you posted - check out links on page for updated info (including Gamma Knife procedure)

Update on Turn of Events

Dr Olopade Visit on 02/02/2009

• We met with Dr Olopade today to discuss Gina's progress
• Dr Olopade had already talked to Dr Nicholas last week and decided the Gamma-knife surgery and IMRT radiation to the brain are the main priorities now
• In addition to the brain treatments, Dr Olopade advised we keep on the Herceptin every three weeks and start taking the oral chemo you may remember known as Tykerb
• Gina was on Tykerb in late 2007 with the Herceptin when she first started treatment
• Tykerb targets breast cancer cells that have too many HER2 receptors by going into the cell and blocking the HER2 pathways - helping to prevent cancer cells from growing, dividing, and surviving
• Click here for a link to how Tykerb works: http://www.tykerb.com/about-tykerb/how-tykerb-works.html
• After Gina is done with IMRT treatments (20-30 we have been told) and the Gamma-knife surgery, Dr Olopade is going to considering a new chemotherapy called Gemzar or Doxil in addition to the Herceptin

More later, just wanted to keep you all posted. Thanks for keeping up on us!

What A Day

WED 01/28/2009

What a day Gina had today! We started out at Dr Sipahi's office where he drew blood to check levels and they seemed better. Dr Sipahi then said:

• Gina will keep getting Herceptin every three weeks along with Zometa (superglue for bones) and her Iron infusion while doing radiation.
• Gina starts radiation (IMRT) to mid-brain area tomorrow to treat the tumor that had the Gamma-knife surgery on 09/2007
• The radiation will be for five weeks, every day with weekends off and done at the Betty Bridgewater Cancer Treatment Center on RT 45.
• There is another Gamma-knife scheduled for the new tumor that they believe is back of brain on THU 02/12/2009 with Dr Schwartz and Dr Jimenez doing procedure
• Dr Sipahi, Sr Schwartz, Dr. Jimenz, are communicating with each other to get this under control

Gina and I also went to University of Chicago Medical Center to see Dr. Nicholas (he is the neuro-oncologist that we started on this whole journey with -Awesome and extremely intelligent individual). We went over the news of tumor growth and he said the following:

• Dr Nicholas does think the new IMRT radiation and upcoming Gamma-knife procedure to the brain is a good plan.
• After a series of simple tests, Dr Nicholas believes Gina is having her problems (runny nose, watery eyes, gaging feeling, double vision, etc) as a result of swelling in mid-brain and should be better after IMRT radiation.
• Dr Nicholas is having a conference at UCMC and will be showing and discussing Gina's scans and notes with them (panel of other doctors and specialists)
• Dr Nicholas is going to meet with Dr Olopade and go over everything, including his suggestion to try a new chemotherapy called Avastin (link on this page)

We see Dr Olopade this coming Monday, so we will keep you posted on the details and her thoughts and plans for Gina's Victory! Love all of you for standing by us through everything and I know GOD is up there watching over us with angels like all of you helping Gina get better. A SPECIAL THANKS to all the doctors and nurses that are treating Gina - GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

Not what We Hoped For...

WED JAN 21st, 2009

Gina had her scans on this past Monday of the chest, abdomen, pelvis, and the brain. After meeting with Dr Sipahi this morning, she was told some bad news - the tumors have grown.

• The brain now seems to have two tumors - the original one in center of brain is swollen and believed to be causing all of her vision problems, headaches, and slurred speech. This is the same tumor that she had the Gamma-Knife surgery on and controls the areas of brain that perform breathing, seeing, hearing, fine motor skills, etcetera. There is also another smaller tumor in the back of the brain that they are going to do Gamma-Knife surgery on. The original tumor is going to have radiation done, probably starting on Friday. They may have to do five or six weeks, daily, of radiation.
• The lung scans showed two tumors in right lung that seem to be causing Gina to have shortness of breath - probably because it is putting pressure on the heart and taking up space in her lung that does not allow her to take a full breath of air. The left lung has a swollen lymph node (area that filters air). The plan is to start radiation to lungs as well.
• The liver and kidney tumors did not appear to have grown any nor changed from last scans. THANK GOD.
• Dr Sipahi only gave Gina Herceptin today since the Navelbine (new chemo) does not appear to be working well. Since she is starting the radiation, Gina will not be able to have chemotherapy at the same time. This is why they are doing radiation to the lungs also.

Gina also saw Dr. Schwartz who is the radiologist that worked with Dr. Jimenenz when Gina had Gamma-Knife to brain last time.

• Both doctors (Schwartz & Sipahi) decided to put Gina back on the steroid, Dexamethasone, to bring down the swelling of the brain.
• Gina will be marked tomorrow morning by Dr Schwartz here in town to prepare for radiation to swollen tumor area in the brain.
• The brain is the MOST IMPORTANT area to get back under control so is priority #1 right now.

We are still going to see Dr .Olopade (primary Oncologist) on Feb 2nd, 2009 and Dr Nicholas (Neuro-Oncologist) this coming Wednesday. We will keep you posted so PLEASE pray for us!

Update Time

01/15/2009

Updates from Gina's Progress

• Dr. Sipahi on Wednesdays for chemotherapy - every week Gina gets Navelbine IV & Iron Infusion every third week Gina also gets Herceptin IV
• Gina had Zometa dose again last week since her jaw pain was better (manageable)
• Blood counts better lately (hopefully cause of the "licorice" Iron infusion
• Scans scheduled from Dr Sipahi to check progress of new Navelbine/Herceptin combo
• Feb 2nd we go to see Dr Olopade to see if we change the chemo regimen or keep it up
• Jan 19th, 2009 (this Monday) Gina has a brain MRI
• Jan 21st, 2009 (WED) Gina sees Dr Schwartz (did brain surgery) to go over MRI results

I will keep you all posted when I get more info! THANKS for all your SuPpOrT!

New Year Updates

01/07/2009

Hello to all and Happy New Year from Gina & Family!

• Gina has been doing the Navelbine chemotherapy every week on WED
• The Navelbine is very strong it seems and seems to be extremely exhausting for her
• On every 3rd week, Gina still has Herceptin done - in addition to the "preload" meds, and IRON infusion by IV (this is the long day usually starts at 0830 for blood work and then back at 0930 to see Dr Sipahi before starting chemotherapy which lasts until late afternoon.)
• There seems to be some concerns about Gina having had a runny nose for over a year now and it is undetermined at this time what it is caused from. Note: No over counter or prescriptions have helped her much yet. )8
• We are seeing Dr Sipahi again today at 1045 HRS then we will ask him about getting scans scheduled (MRI, CT or PET) to see what the progress is with new chemo regimen.
• Gina has been having some pains in liver again and vision issues - we are going to get these scans done and go over them with Dr Schwartz (did brain operation) and then set up an appointment with Dr. Nicholas at UCMC.
• We go see Dr. Olopade in Chicago on Feb 2nd for updates.

Thanks again to all of the loyal supporters and caring friends, family and other loved ones that have been praying and keeping in touch! It is amazing how healing it is to know there is such a large support group out there that extends so far out into the community. I THANK each and every one of you personally from the bottom of my heart. Keep up the smiles, prayers and faith - we WILL get through this.

Dr. Sipahi for Chemo Today

11/19/2008

• Gina saw Dr. Sipahi and his lovely "girls" (staff) that do the wonderful things they do each day to make Gina and everyone else feel special.
• Dr. Sipahi spoke with Dr, Olopade and they thought Gina should be put on a new chemotherapy drug called NAVELBINE - Gina will get this instead of the Xeloda pills she was taking at 3,000 mg a day, one week on and one week off.
• Now, Gina will take the Navelbine by IV once a week and it will last around 15 minutes and then another 15 minutes or so for saline to flush out her veins.
• You can click on the links to right in the Information Station to learn more about Navelbine and how it works in the body - The action of the drug is the Inhibition of Mitosis at cell's metaphase (or, I believe, stopping the cancer cells from growing and/or dividing at cellular level).
• We will continue with the Herceptin for as long as Gina's heart can tolerate it as it seems to work very well
• For those of you who did not know Gina is diagnosed at a stage five of cancer so we want to knock this down to a lower number than to a ZERO!
• As far as the "spot" in the heart that was suspected to be either a tumor or a clot, the doctors say it is the tumor in the lung that grew that is showing up in the scan and Dr. Sipahi is calling it new disease so another reason why they are trying the Navelbine now.
• No PET scan yet - we are gonna wait until the Navelbine attacks those cancer cells and then do the PET scan (more later)

Thanks for the loving support and all your goodwill!

Notes on Dr. Sipahi Visit

11/17/2008

• Trip to UCMC for follow-up with Dr. Olopade
• Dr. Olopade was told about heart echo (test) showing a "spot" that might be a clot or tumor and she said she would review the scans with Doctors and get back to us
• We told Dr. Olopade about the lung tumor was shown to have grown by last chest scan and putting pressure on Gina's trachea and encroaching her heart
• Dr. Olopade said she wants to change the chemotherapy and stop the Xeloda since it is not effective in Gina's treatment but keep on taking the Herceptin (IV) form of chemo - that is good since Gina's hands are numb and SO sore from the Xeloda
• Gina did no take the Xeloda today (11/18) since Dr. Olopade is changing to another chemotherapy drug that Gina will take daily (unknown at this time for sure what it is)
• After talking to Dr. Olopade, she thinks we need to have a Pet scan for Gina (shows whole body and any tumor activity in the body from head to knees), waiting for scan to be scheduled
• Gina having Herceptin tomorrow (11/19) and will hopefully know what new chemo is

Keep up the prayers and support - we need your faith and love to get some good news!

Updates on Gina's Progress

11/16/08

• On 10/29/08 Gina had Chemo again w/ Dr. Sipahi and "the girls"
• Gina noticed a small, black spot in between her big toe and the next on left foot so Dr. Sipahi suggested a biopsy to check for possible skin cancer
• A procedure was done on friday, november 7th and the spot was removed and sent to lab while gina had two stitches in between toes
• test results came back as negative for skin cancer (YEAH!) - better 2 be safe i guess
• gina having chest pains for awhile now and chest feels "heavy" so had echo done on heart - results suggest small "spot" on heart, could be clot or tumor so Dr. Sipahi said get to Chicago as soon as possible
• Dr. Olopade notified but she was out of country in Nigeria so appointment set for monday, november 17th at 10:30 am (keep your fingers crossed and say a prayer to the man upstairs that it is nothing bad, maybe just a bad scan). if clot, doctor said gina might need a stint put in.

More tomorrow after we talk to Dr. Olopade in chicago. (sorry 4 the late postings)

In Limbo

• Went to Dr. Sipahi's office to have Herceptin and Zometa on October 8th
• Next "IV" chemo on October 29.
• Taking Xeloda 3000 mg a day one week on one week off - side effects are much more manageable.
• Having scans (CT of chest abdomen and pelvis) on Monday October 27th at Riverside Medical Center. This is to check progress of the tumors in the lung, liver, and kidneys.
• Going back to see Dr. Olapade on Monday Nov. 24th
• Gina is now working 2 days a week at Dr. Brown's office, this is a wonderful opportunity for Gina, as it gives her a real sense of independence.
• This month is the 1 year anniversary for the benefit, we think about that AWESOME day often, all the work that went into that day, and the support from so many people still helps us get through the days that are challenging with a smile on our faces!!

Thanks again to all that have supported us through our journey to victory!

Meet the Girls at Dr. Sipahi's Office

TUE, SEPT 16th, 2008 - Another Round of Chemo

• Visited Dr Sipahi office for Chemotherapy
• Had Herceptin again and Dr Sipahi said also having Procrit & Zometa ("super glue" for bones) again 'cuz of leg pains where surgery was
• Supposed to get Zometa every other Herceptin treatment (every six weeks), now changed to every three weeks
• Dr. Sipahi going to check with dr Schwartz to see if more radiation can be done to leg but thinks maxed out doseage already
• Gina's HFS (Hand, Foot Syndrome) which is caused by the Xeloda is VERY painful lately - hands and feet very red, swollen and starting to crack! 8(
• Going to order more scans after the next Herceptin chemo on October 7th to see progress of the Xeloda and Herceptin is having

Cross your fingers, bow your head and help me to ask GOD for good news that my wife Gina will be cure! I pray to GOD every day in my heart that he will give me the rest of my life with her.

Thanks to all those who have been supporting us through the months, past, present and future, and keep on praying for the day we hear She is all cured! 8)

Dr. Sipahi visit for treatment

Gina saw Dr. Sipahi and the "girls" today on Tuesday, August 26th, 2008.

• Herceptin treatment, Procrit and Zometa given.
• All seemed to be good with blood work - red blood cell count even went up!
• Dr. Sipahi said he doesn't argue with "Chicago (doctors)" and okay with treatments.
• Gina told him about bone pain in right leg so Dr. Sipahi ordered an X-Ray for the leg.
• The X-Ray came back okay - nothing appeared to be out of the ordinary. Good News! Why the pain then?!?
• We asked Dr. Sipahi about Gina not taking Coumadin anymore and he did not think she was still taking it, so said to try stop taking it
• Gina is also taking Iron supplements every other day - to help with swelling of hands and feet from Xeloda side effects. Very PaInFuL for Gina and she keeps them lotioned up constantly.

Trip to Dr. Olopade

Gina and I went to see Dr. Olopade on Monday, August 25th, 2008 in Chicago.

• Dr. Olopade decided to change Gina's dose of Chemotherapy with the Xeloda - still taking four 500 mg pills in morning and same at night BUT, one week on and one week off, instead of two on and one off.
• Considering changing doseage down to 225 mg pills instead of 500 mg; however, only wants to change one thing at a time to see what happens.
• We asked her if Gina should still be taking Coumadin since we saw on Xeloda video that not recommended since they counteract each other (thus making treatment less effective). Dr. O said to stop taking the Coumadin now since it is for blood clots.
• Dr. Olopade suggested seeing her every other month now unless needed.
• Gina still doing IV chemo - Herceptin every three weeks, Zometa ("super-glue" for bones) every six weeks

Keep prayers coming this Xeloda not as easy as we thought. Gina gets very tired and sick feeling with Xeloda for a couple hours after each dosage.

New Chemo Started

Gina's Latest Updates!

• Gina was unable to finish her last chemo round of Taxotere-Carboplaten-Herceptin due to neurothapy (nerve damage).
• Gina started new chemo consisting of Xeloda pills and Herceptin IV treatments - still taking the Zometa every six weeks and Procrit every three weeks.
• Back to see Dr. Olopade and UCMC staff on Monday, August 25th, 2008 to find out how long the new chemo regimen will last.
• The new Xeolda chemotherapy is two weeks on and one week off - so very tiring and less time in between to rest (*like she rests 8)! )
• GREAT NEWS ! - with the new Xeloda pills we should all be seeing those lovely locks of hers again! (This chemo does not cause hair loss -- YEAH!)

The next chemo, Herceptin, will be on Tuesday, August 26th, 2008 here at Dr. Sipahi's office -- we just love him and those lovely girls working there.

Round Ten of Chemotherapy - Incredible

Gina at Dr. Sipahi office today for tenth round of Chemotherapy!

• Gina had Procrit and Zometa both today.
• All three types of chemo - Taxotere, Carboplaten and Herceptin
• Very hard this time - but we all know what a strong minded person she is and that she will rise above it all and kick this cancer out of her system!
• I Thank GOD and all of you for the support, e--mails, Blog posts, phone calls and friendly "Hello's" when we see you out and about.
• The shot is tomorrow and then Rest, rest, rest for Gina.

Keep you all posted on this site! Thanks again for all of your love and support!

Gina's Results from Latest Scans

Trip to Chicago to see Dr. Olopade

• We saw Dr. Olopade on Monday, July 7th, 2008
• After reviewing the latest scans from 07/03, Dr. Olopade said that the T-C-H (Taxotere, Carboplatem and Herceptin chemo therapy) was doing a good job of shrinking the tumors.
• Dr. Olopade said that Gina is her "miracle girl" - as no one else has had more than six chemotherapy treatments with the T-C-H combo because it leads to nerve damage.
• Gina did Round #10 of the T-C-H chemo so Dr. Olopade is going to use her records as an example to the other doctors at the hospital.
• Gina has been having some numbness (or tingly feeling) in her fingers on and off and sometimes in her toes.
• Keep the prayers coming and say a special prayer for Gina's recovery as each new chemo treatment gets harder and harder for her to recover from. (I love her and would do anything to keep her from feeling any more pain or discomfort!)
• The GOOD News is that the tumors in the lung, both kidneys and liver have shrunk as well as no change to the brain (still unchanged in size and shape since shrinking @ 75% from the Gamma Knife surgery!
• Dr. Olopade said will try two more T-C-H chemo treatments and then change the regimen to something different (probably keep the Herceptin going though since it works so well!)

See the How Herceptin works video link on left side of this website to see how it works on cancer cells!

Nine is a Lucky Number

Round Nine of chemo today 06/24/08

• Gina had #9 of Taxotere, Carboplatem and Herceptin
• Also had Procrit so could have Herceptin
• Shot tomorrow at Dr Sipahi
• Scans set for 07/04 weekend then off to UCMC on 07/07 to see Dr Olpade to see what's next since not likely will keep having same chemo

Thanks for all for the support and PRAYERS! they definitely work.

New Update

Round Eight of Chemo on Tuesday.

• We saw Dr Olopade and Dr Peabody on May 19th, 2008
• Dr Peabody (bone doc) said all looks well - had X-ray on leg, calcification on hip, see him annually from now on and to stay on the Zometa ("super glue" for bones)
• Dr Olopade said should only have six of these chemo treatments; however, since all is going well, wants to do two more (unless Gina shows signs of nerve damage)
• Gina had more CT scans of pelvis & abdomen - all looked well
• Scans showed slight decrease in all tumors or stayed the same
• We saw Dr Nicholas (brain doc) who said all seemed fine with brain, vision still an issue but since brain tumor is located in area that controls all motor functions vision will be affected until tumor is gone
• Dr Nicholas said appears Ginas memory is getting better
• Tuseday is chemo again (treatment #8) with Zometa

(click here to learn how Zometa works: http://www.us.zometa.com/info/therapy/zometa_infusion.jsp)

Round 5 of Chemotherapy

Trip to Dr Sipahi office for Chemo #5

• Met with Dr Sipahi who reviewed the latest scans from Thursday (CAT and MRI)
• He said all scans shows either a reduction or no change in tumors
• The tumor that showed up on scan in left kidney was there before and appears to have shrunk a little bit
• Gina also has a cyst on her ovary - follow up w/ Dr. Yalamanchilli scheduled
• No Procrit (as all blood clots appeared last time)
• No Zometa ("super glue" for bones) this treatment
• Dr Sipahi asked how many more chemo treatments and he said he does not know if they will ever be stopped - maybe take a break from chemo, but, that's all
  

Round Four of Chemo

Dr Sipahi Visit @ Riverside Medical Center

• Trip to Dr Sipahi's office for fourth round of chemotherapy
• Follow up w/ Dr Sipahi went well - looked at recent bone scan which showed an improvement from original scans in femur.
• No other new bone cancer in the body was detected! (yipee!)
• Since Gina's kidney function is doing much better, Dr Sipahi increased level of Chemo and added new medicine (red blood stimulator) called Procrit
• Had to take Zometa again - "super glue" for bones
• At Dr Sipahi's office from 0930 until around 4:30 or 5:00 pm for treatment
• Dr Sipahi had his lovely staff members schedule CT scans for chest (lung), abdomen (liver) and pelvis (kidney) for Thursday March 27, 2008 - to coincide with MRI of brain that Dr Schwartz ordered (also same day)
• We wanted to take a moment to let all out there know that all of the "girls" at Dr Sipahi's office are God's little angels and have always treated Gina (and myself) wonderful and really go that extra step to make us feel so good.
• We will be off to Chicago again to see doctors Olopade and Knight on April 7th they will take a look at the new scans to see how much the chemo is destroying those cancer cells.

Bone Scan at RMC

Gina went with her mom to Riverside Hospital this morning for a bone scan to check how things are going and rule out anything else (Gina's been having some chest pain).

• Bone Scan with contrast (dye injected) @ 730 am
• Bone scan complete @ four hours later
• Gina called and they said everything looks good!
• No new growth shown but a "little movement" in leg that had the surgery but all still looked good from scan

Keep those Heavenly connections open by continuing to pray daily for my Gina as she is the best thing that God has ever given to me and I know he is going to make everything right again! We love all of your support and, believe me when I say, it really, REALLY helps to know so many out there are thinking about us and encouraging us to stay strong and kick this cancer in the A@*!

Round Two of Chemo

Dr Sipahi office

• Gina and I visited Dr Sipahi today


• Dr Sipahi increased Chemo because he said her kidney functions are better.


• The blood test results were good - just need to increase iron and calcium intake.


• Gina had all three chemos - Taxotere, Carboplatem and Herceptin - and is doing fine.


• The new port seems to be working great and it made things a lot easier for her.


• Lots of Rest and back tomorrow for shot

Post Surgery

Port Surgery @ Riverside Medical Center

• Gina had her port put in by Dr Brockman this morning
• Dr Brockman told me all seemed well with it (we even were ahead of schedule with surgery - around 9:10 am instead of scheduled 10:30 am)
• The port will help to ease pain with Chemo Therapy IV injections
• Gina also had the shot on Wednesday last week so, once gain, she is wearing her Superwoman cape and staying strong with a smile on her face against all the adversity she has been up against!
• Doctors and nurses both stressed many time for Gina to rest, Rest, REst, RESt, REST!

Keep those prayer lines coming they are working and getting our Gina healthy and kicking that cancer in the A-@#! Thanks again for all your support and Love!!!

New Chemotherapy Begins

Chemotherapy at Dr Sipahi Office

• Gina at Dr Sipahi office today for new Chemotherapy treatments
• Dr Sipahi reviewed Dr Olopade's notes and agreed with treatments
• Gina asked Dr Sipahi about getting a port put in and he said it would be okay
• We told Dr Sipahi that Dr Brockman had the port surgery scheduled for this Monday (January 14, 2008) and he said to go ahead with it (Gina's veins do not need any extra stress from all the new IV treatments she will be getting, so I agree that she should have the port put in)
• Gina had first dose of the three new Chemotherapies by IV at Dr Sipahi's office
• Gina also had the Zometa, "super glue" for bones, since she was getting IV already
• Dr Sipahi and Dr Olopade have Gina scheduled for Neulana (shot) on Thursday (01/10/08) that helps with side effects from Chemo

Visit with Dr Olopade and Dr Knight

Trip To UCMC with Dr Olopade

• Dr Knight from Chicago called and wanted to see Gina a week earlier than scheduled based on latest scans
• We met with Dr Olopade at the University of Chicago and she decided to take Gina off the Tykerb and Xeloda (chemo pills) now that her brain tumor appears to be under control (it had shrunk 75%)
• Dr Olopade changed Chemotherapy now to IV form and is using a combination of: Herceptin (had one dose before the Tykerb), Taxotere and Carboplatem
• The new Chemotherapy is VERY strong so it will unfortunately make Gina pretty sick and tired. (We will be giving her LOTS of extra love here at home to compensate)
• Dr Brockman is going to put a port in Gina to help with all Chemo treatments with IV
• Dr Olopade said Gina on Dexamethasone again for three days during Chemo treatments (before, on and after the treatment) to keep down swelling in the body
• Gina's white blood count good and she is in Good health and spirits (that's my tough-as-nails Gina though)
• Gian will be on new Chemo for 6 treatments (@ 18 weeks), one every three weeks and see Dr Olopade every second cycle (6 weeks) to see how her body is handling the Chemo

Keep up the Prayers and Thanks to all for your support!!

Trip to Dr. Sipahi Office

Follow Up with Dr Sipahi from Recent Scans 12/19/07

• Met with Dr Sipahi who has really been doing some research on Tykerb and Xoloda.
• GREAT NEWS!!! Our Christmas prayers have been answered now that the scans showed the brain "tumor" has been reduced by 75%! ) The kidney cancer cell has also been reduced in size! 8)
• Both the lung and liver have increased in size a little - the liver went from 3.6 to 4.2 cm and the lung went from 3.0 to 3.2 cm (I think it is because we are still early with treatments of Xeloda and Tykerb)
• Another good note is that the lung is no longer a round mass; but, it appears it has been broken into a "C" shape (probably because it is being attacked with a vengeance by the chemo pills, don't you agree?)
• Gina also had her Zometa treatment again today ("super glue" for the bones) so she's a bit sore in the joints right now BUT looks as beautiful as the 1st day I laid eyes on her!
• We are going to continue with the Tykerb, Xoloda and Zometa as we are just starting the 3rd round and are hopeful that it is kicking the @#@! out of those bad cells!
• We are going back to see Dr Sipahi for blood work on January 10, 2008
• We are also going back to see Dr Olapade and Dr Knight at the University of Chicago on January 14, 2008 (I will keep you posted)

Take care and keep up those PRAYERS as they are stronger than any medicine!

GOD BLESS TO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR WARM THOUGHTS, NEVER DWINDLING PRAYERS AND LOVE AND SUPPORT THAT HAVE GOTTEN US THIS FAR!

Trip to University of Chicago

12/17: Follow-Up with Dr Olapade and Dr Knight at UCMC

• Follow up after completing the 2nd round of Chemo pills - Tykerb (brand new) and Xoloda. The doctors complemented Gina several times about how good she looks, especially since the last visit! Gina has stopped taking all other prescription medications EXCEPT for the chemo pills.
• All of us here at home agree with the doctors diagnosis that Gina is doing and looking WONDERFUL! In case you haven't seen her doing so, Yes, Gina has been driving for a few weeks now (so you do not have to call me and ask if I knew 8) !).
• The next step is scans CAT or MRI to see how the chemo pills are doing (I believe that GOD has been erasing away all the negative and replacing it with SUPER health cells).
• Gina is also still doing the Zometa IV ("super glue" for her bones) every 3rd week here in town at Dr Sipahi's office

More to follow later!

Dr. Knight Visit at UCMC

Monday, October 29, 2007 trip to University of Chicago Medical Center (UCMC)

• Met w/ Dr Knight and, get this, a Dr. Gina M (for Mauer) because Dr Olapade was out of the country trying to get back.
• The plan was that since Gina's Breast cancer is HER2 positive, we are going to start two new types of Chemotherapy - in a pill form.
• The first one will replace the Herceptin IV she was starting to get and is called Lapatinib (Tykerb) and is five tablets taken daily at once.
• The second chemotherapy pill is called Xeloda and is taken three pills at a time, twice daily
• Both types attack only the 'bad' cancerous cells and attach to them and destroy them - without harming the good cells (like traditional Chemotherapy does)

Also had another MRI of her brain, as it has been almost two months since the Gamma Knife Radiation so we had the scan with and without contrast (dye) injected.

• A follow up with Dr. Nicholas is scheduled for this Thursday, November 1, 2007, which just happens to be All SAINTS Day - GOD's presence again working for us! 8)

UCMC Visit

Monday, October 29, 2007 Trip to See Dr. Knight

• Met w/ Dr. Knight and Dr. Gina Mauer (Gina M just like my Gina) who said they have a plan for treatment.


• Since they are HER2 positive breast cancer cells, we are going to start two new treatments of Chemotherapy - both pill forms


• The first will replace the Herceptin IV treatments we were going to get every three weeks and is called

Dr. Olapadpe Visit

Dr. Olapadpe and Dr. Knight (Dream Team) at UCMC on Oct 8, 2007.

• Dr. Olapadpe was truly a blessing from above - she is world renowned and a very uplifting person to be around


• Dr. Olapadpe was accompanied by Dr. Knight and they said there were many backup plans they could do if one type of treatment doesn't work


• Gina was told that she has HER2Positive breast cancer and it is a stage IV (but all breast cancer that comes back is labeled that way, no matter where it comes back at)


• Waiting on pathology slides from Riverside from original breast cancer in 2002 for treatment plan from Dr. Olapadpe


• Started Herceptin - a new breast cancer drug that targets HER2 cells and keeps them from growing! (see attached video clip) Herceptin is basically an IV that is given every three weeks, and, for Gina, lasts around 90 minutes, with little to no side effects!


• Also, started a "monthly" IV of Zometra (a.k.a. "super glue for the bones") lasting about 30 minutes.

Benefit at VFW

Gina Mason Benefit on Saturday, October 6, 2007 from 4 pm - 10 pm

• Held at VFW in Bradley
• U-N-B-E-L-I-E-V-A-B-L-E !! (No words can quite capture the emotions or inspiration that you guys gave to Gina and our family)
• This was a truly awe-inspiring event that gave Gina's spirit a lift and showed her (and the rest of us) just how many people are out there supporting us each day through prayers, kind words, gestures and gifts.
• In my entire life, I have never witnessed so many people come together just to show how much love and support they have for us! There were so many beautiful baskets, thoughtful donations and supportive volunteers that made this night a truly unforgettable, life-altering event for me and my family. THANKS TO ALL and GOD BLESS! 8)

I hope you all had a chance to see our tiny Thank you message in Sunday's paper (10/21/07).

Dr. Swale Appointment

Dr. Swale @ Riverside for Eye appointment on Oct 4, 2007

• After discussing Gina's vision problems (double vision, blurriness) she was referred to opthamologist (Dr. Swale)
• New eye glass prescription for those big, beautiful blue eyes with prisms in glasses that allow her to see more clearly with less problems

* Radiation starts today and continues every day (except weekends) for nine total treatments by Dr. Schwartz office. The girls there were GREAT! 8)

Bone Scan of Whole Body

October 3, 2007 @ Riverside Medical Center

• Dr. Peabody from Univ Chicago Med Cntr ordered a whole body scan of all bones
• Riverside did scan by injecting Gina w/ dye @ 8 am then did scan later at 11 am
• Dr. Peabody said should be only @ 3 more weeks on crutches and all looked good

Radiologist Visit at Riverside Annex

TUE, October 2, 2007 - Visit with Dr Schwartz

• Mark Gina for Radiation treatments to leg and discuss how many treatments (possibly 15, or 3 weeks worth)
• Dr Schwartz said a total of nine radiation treatments to be given to right femur area

Follow-Up with Dr. Peabody at UCMC

Monday, October 1, 2007 @ 1400 HRS

• Met w/ Dr Peabody for follow-up from leg surgery
• Staples are finally out (all 27 of them) and it was virtually painless
• An X-Ray of right knee was done to check the swelling and some bruising where Gina said she had some pain there - all looked good from X-Ray and no cancer or anything out of ordinary was seen on scan
• Dr Peabody said USE BOTH CRUTCHES for @ 3 more weeks and gave "hands-on" demo of proper use of crutches
• A Follow-Up w/ Dr Peabody in @ 6 weeks
• A Bone San was ordered for WED, OCT 3, 2007 @ Riverside to make sure no other things show up (PET scan only went to lower thighs)

Back to Chicago to see Oncologist

Going back to UCMC to see what they can do to kick this in the butt!

• What more can I say... but, the man upstairs has sent us yet another miracle - an Angel by the name of DR Olopade! (8)
• This is the heavenly gift we have all been waiting for - DR Olopade is a WORLD-RENOWN LEADER in Breast Cancer and has numerous awards for devoting her life's work to this cause. (Featured in October Ebony magazine and numerous scientific journals)
• 30 years of research on Breast Cancer and Professor of Medicine and Human Genetics
  Director at University of Chicago Medical Center
• Gina (and the rest of us too) feel that this has been a truly Blessed day as DR Olopade has given us a feeling we haven't felt in over three to four weeks - HOPE!
• Her approach is very aggressive and compassionate and she is going to check not only the new biopsy from Gina's femur surgery, but, also, the biopsy from the breast cancer from 2002.
• We have a follow-up appointment in two weeks (Oct 8th) and should have a plan on what specific type of cancer we are dealing with and how to treat it!

Keep your PRAYERS coming and THANKS to all who have been with us along the way!!

Trip to Chicago Med Center

University of Chicago Medical Center 09/21/07 @ 1000 HRS

• Back to UCMC to check on "bruising-like" areas on back of right leg (where surgery was)
• Dr Peabody, Dr Angeline, Dr Avedian ALL met with us and said "bruises" are just from surgery and Gina's leg looks really good
• Removed surgical bandages and saw no abnormal swell ling and NO BLOOD CLOTS (Yeah!) 8)
• Gina had four incisions on right thigh from surgery with a total of 27 staples to close them
• Worried a little about losing blood from surgery and Gina being anemic so Dr Peabody had us check blood in lab - All blood tests came back good!
• See Dr Peabody again in a week (OCT 1) to discuss Radiation treatment and remove staples/check healing progress

Thanks again, from all of us, to all of the staff at UCMC - especially DRS: Peabody, Angeline & Avedian!

Leg Surgery Day

Surgery at University of Chicago Medical Center (Mitchell Bldg) @ 6AM

• DR Peabody and DR Angeline performed Bone Biopsy @ 0800 HRS
• Unfortunately, Carcinoma (cancer cells) were present in right femur 8(
• Gina then had a steel rod surgically placed into middle of right femur bone - four incisions on leg and then stapled closed
• Gina gets to go to Recovery room around 1530 HRS
• Family met with DR Peabody after surgery and he said operation went well - Gina has very STRONG bones w/ no fractures and very solid. DR Peabody scraped some Carcinoma from bone area and said Radiation/Chemotherapy would be administered for remaining cells
• Stayed over night and Gina went home next night after some Physical Therapy with her crutches (Of course she lived up to her image and was tough-as-nails)
• Next Follow-Up visit on October 1st w/ DR Peabody

The staff were Excellent (once again) and very professional and efficient! Thanks to all staff for your hard work and dedication! 8)

Visit to Dr. Peabody

Dr Peabody Visit at University of Chicago Medical Center for Advanced Medicine @ 1300 HRS

• Met with Dr Terrance Peabody and his associate, Dr Angeline @ 1300 HRS
• Once again, nothing more to say about visit other than UNBELIEVABLE!
• Upon arrival (10 minutes early), we were treated with utmost professionalism in a personal, "family" atmosphere
• Dr Angeline (note the last name starts with GOD's helpers) met with us first in doctor's office BEFORE scheduled time and our X-Rays and scans of Gina's leg were being looked at right away by the Radiologist
• Dr Angeline took Gina's personal information and then told us what to expect from visit
• Dr Peabody came in, followed by Dr Angeline and a visiting doctor and showed us the X-Rays and scans
• Dr Peabody said something showing up around outer bone of right femur and said it could be from Gina getting hit with that softball line drive in June OR could be the cancer starting
• Dr Peabody suggested we have an operation that would give him a biopsy sample which they could check in THEIR OWN LABS within @ 30 minutes and tell if cancer or not
• If not cancer, close up incision and send us home; If cancer present, then insert steel rod through hip bone into middle of Femur to strengthen it and secure with pin on each end, monitor Gina overnight and send home sometime Friday
• Dr Peabody had us scheduled for surgery THIS THURSDAY ALREADY at 6 AM!
• After surgery, if cancer was found, follow-up with Radiation

Visit to Dr. Sipahi

DR SIPAHI visit @ 1230 HRS

• Not the news we were hoping for today but we will get through this!
• The Liver Biopsy results came back as there being a tumor in the Liver
• DR Sipahi also believes that the scans are showing a very small spot on outer kidney and in right lung as well as the right femur bone.
• We are going back to University of Chicago on Monday to see DR Peabody about the leg
• DR Sipahi thinks we might need a steel rod put in for strength, although Gina is not feeling any pain in her leg right now.

Keep up those wonderful prayers and kind words because the FAITH in God and all of you is stronger than any medicine will ever be!

Thanks for everything to everyone and GOD BLESS!

Gamma Knife Surgery

The Neurologic & Orthopedic Institute of Chicago (Aka: Ravenswood Hospital) -Gamma Knife Radio static Surgery on 09/06/2007

** Let me start by saying you have all been nothing short of A-M-A-Z-I-N-G with all of your thoughts, kind gestures and mainly PRAYERS! The Love & Support we feel is one of the main reasons I believe Gina will not only be better, but completely cleansed by GODS Hands of any illness! -- Thanks so, So, SO MUCH (Bob)

• The surgery started this morning at @ 6 AM with consultation by DR Jimenez (Truly Gifted surgeon who was guided by Gods Hands)
• Next, came the installation of a metal frame that had to be attached to the skull to prevent movement during procedure (Very painful for Gina, but she is fine now)
• Next, another MRI on site with three surgeons (DR Jimenez- neurosurgeon, DR Schwartz - Radiologist and DR Levan - Physicist)
• Finally - GREAT NEWS!! The surgeons only found one tumor, turns out the other "activity" was an enlarged blood vessel.
• Planning for @ 3 HRS
• The actual Gamma Knife Radio surgery procedure (@ 1 HR) - all went well and doctors confident they killed all bad tumor cells (@ 1 PM)
• RECOVERY - Post Surgery (eat, rest (nap), and monitor activity - GINA, of course, passed with flying colors and gets to go home now (@ 3:45 PM)
• HOME SWEET HOME for Rest/Relaxation

Let me finish tonight's thoughts with the following comment - ALL of the staff from the receptionist and nurses to the three very highly recommended and skilled doctors were not only warm and personal but gave us all their full, undivided attention the whole day - Truly a rarity in today's fast-paced, you're-just-a-number-to-me attitude of most service providers! THANKS again for all of our loving friends, family and especially to the man upstairs who truly does guide our souls to the right places if we let him in! GOD BLESS to all! 8)

Dr. Sipahi Visit

Follow-up Visit to DR Sipahi 09/05/07

• Go over results from Liver Biopsy and discuss actions for treatment
• Dr Nicholas said Dr Sipahi should be prescribing Herceptin and some type of Chemotherapy

Dr, Peabody Visit

DR Peabody visit at University of Chicago's Center for Advanced Medicine @ 1 PM

• Consultation about right femur to discuss options to treat
• Expert in Bone treatments

The First Step....

Visit to Ravenwood Hospital on 09/06/07

• Gamma Knife Radiation @ 6AM
• Three Doctors - DR Schwartz (Radiologist), DR Jimenez (Neurologist), DR Levan (Physicist)- all plan and perform surgery together
• End Result? - NO MORE BRAIN TUMOR!