Dear Praying Friends,
First of all, let
me express how much we appreciate your prayers for us. God is good and
we have some good news to share from our consultations Friday morning
at the University of California – San Francisco (UCSF) Comprehensive
Cancer Center.
As you are aware,
the USC/Norris clinical trial was postponed until sometime in August
so I scouted out clinical trials available elsewhere. UCSF is conducting
three separate clinical trials (use of non-FDA approved experimental
drugs) for renal cell cancer. I am very fortunate to be so close to
such excellent cancer treatment centers. UCSF is one of the best and
we were very impressed with the facilities and staff.
After examining
my latest reports, diagnostic scan, and current condition, the oncologist
at UCSF feels that my cancer is slow growing and that because of my
age and otherwise good health and lifestyle, my life expectancy is to
be measured in years, not months. However, he qualified that by stating
that renal (kidney) cell cancer is very unpredictable and things can
change rapidly. At any rate, it was good to hear that news.
Many ask how I
really feel. My constant companions are fatigue and pain. I manage fatigue
by resting many hours a day. I have many physical limitations now and
there are things I simply cannot do anymore. The pain can be very intense
at times but is managed through medications. I don’t have the
stereotypical look of a cancer patient - which is usually baldheaded
with a gaunt appearance since I didn’t go through the traditional
chemotherapy/radiation route. If you see me I look pretty normal, other
than some weight loss. To my disappointment, however, the weight I have
regained has landed in the wrong place: my middle!
All renal cell
cancer trials are long shots. I am leaning toward one in particular
at UCSF, although the USC trial may open up as well. I have some decisions
to make soon but will probably start treatments in early September.
Why so long? It’s mostly my choice. You see, my son Jeremy and
I are planning a special two-week trip in late August/early September
to Hong Kong, Macau, and the Philippines. Jeremy was born to us in Hong
Kong while Becky and I were missionaries in Macau. We left there when
he was very young and he has always wanted to see his birthplace again.
Additionally, there are folks I need to see in the Philippines. We look
forward to opportunities to minister along the way.
I do need your
prayers for finalizing the plans on the upcoming Far East trip. It will
also be a very taxing trip on me physically in my current condition
so I request prayer for strength and stamina. Jeremy is a big guy so
he’ll take care of me – making sure to watch out for me.
Again, we are so
grateful for your continuous prayer support. It means so much to us.
God bless you.
Resting in Him,
Doug Sutherland
