gOING BACk to CHicago today on a new misssion

Patty & I are GOING back to Chicago today but on a new mission. We will be staying downtown on Ontario St. tonight and then first thing tomorrow morning (8:30 AM) we will meet with Dr. Jeffrey Raizer at Northwestern University about entering a Phase-2 clinical trial using a new experimental drug. You might think that Northwestern University Medical center would be in Evanston. but it is actually located in the heart of downtown Chicago on Saint Clair St. I'll post another update after we get home.

My tumor is still progressing

We spent Tuesday and Wednesday (10/21, 10/22) in Chicago this week at the University of Chicago Medical Center. My brain MRI was on 10/21 afternoon and appointment with Dr. Nicholas was on Wednesday morning, 10/22. The results from my MRI were discouraging as the scan indicated that the tumor is still growing (since August). My next move is to try to get into another clinical trial. There appears to be an interesting one at Northwestern University under leadership of Dr. Jeffrey Raizer, MD. Dr. Nicholas believes that I should be eligible and we will contact Dr. Raizer early next week about entry into this phase-2 trial that is testing a new agent called Azixa from Myriad Pharmaceuticals. Right now and over the weekend many Neuro Oncologists are attending a conference in New Orleans. The good news is that I still feel pretty good despite the discouraging test results. Stay posted for my update next week.

David visits Indy for Sarah's Birthday

Sarah with her husband, Thomas before her birthday dinner.












Phil's son David with his Dad on Oct 17, 2009





















Patty, Phil with daughter, Sarah

David flew up from Atlanta to stay with us in Indy for his sister, Sarah's birthday weekend. It was nice seeing him and having him here for this weekend to share this time with

us and his sister. And since I'm feeling well and my mood is good, all is well. David spent Friday night with his sis and husband Thomas at the clubs in downtown Indy and we all went out to the Shalimar restaurant last night for Sarah's choice of birthday food from India.

For the love of family: Wedding of Erin & Scott in VA

Phil with his dear Aunt Carrie at the wedding reception

















Phil with his cousin Stellie and the reception

The Bride & Groom, Erin & Scott

Phil with his cousin,Carey, the bride's Father

Phil & Patty at the reception

Phil with his cousin Rob

Phil with his cousin Cynthia

For the love of family: wedding in Virginia.

I was fortunate enough to feel well enough for Patty and I to attend my cousin Carey's daughter's wedding in Virginia this past weekend. It was such an absolute joy for me to see my relatives in a time of joy. I was determined to attend this affair and although the travel and long days wore me out, I was so happy to be able to attend and see all cousins there. It was a beautiful ceremony and wonderful reception. I'm sure that you would all agree that there is nothing like the love of family and especially during these difficult times for me. I love all of them with all my heart. I was so happy that we could be a part of this event.