CHP Retiree Steve Walker, ID 6375 battling serious illness
Hello family and friends,
We had an appointment with Dr. Chen, Radiation Oncologist, at the City of Hope Wednesday. Dr. Chen informed us that he discussed Steve’s recent AFP test results with Dr. Chung. They have determined that the oral chemo medication is no longer effective on his liver cancer and told him to cease taking the medication immediately. This was a surprise to us after our recent CT results showed little change in the tumors from the previous CT in November 2011.
Steve’s AFP levels have been as follows; Sept. = 140, Oct. 27 = 172, (Started Chemo), Nov. 22 = 200, Dec. 6 = 233.7, Jan. 3 = 239.3 and Feb. 7 = 272.5. (It is better if the number is going down.) We continue to pray the AFP level will drop or at least not increase anymore. (Normal levels would be below 10)
The doctors have also determined that this is the appropriate window of opportunity to move forward with the Therasphere treatment option. Steve will have the blood flow mapping angiogram on Feb. 27th and his follow up appointment with Dr. Chen will be on or about March 7th. At that time we will know if Steve qualifies for the procedure. If he does the procedure should take place some time about March 15, 2012.
Dr. Chen explained the Theraspheres could have some very serious risks. He said if Steve qualifies for the treatment and they proceed with it we need to understand that once they inject the Radioactive Theraspheres there is no way to get them back out of the body or stop their process.
Steve continues to feel well and still has no symptoms of illness other than some increased fatigue. He is pain feel and has had no apparent side effects from the oral chemo medication.
We will continue to keep you apprised of any developments and we greatly appreciate your prayers for wisdom for the doctors, discernment in the decisions that need to be made and the love and peace of God throughout all of this for Steve and the entire family.
The outpouring of love and support from you in this difficult time has been such a blessing and we thank you all. May God bless each of you and all those you love,
Sandi, Steve, Sarah, John, Laura and family
Source: Tom Fitch
UPDATE March 1, 2012
Hello family and friends,
We met with Steve’s Radiation Oncologist Dr. Chen today. It was a good appointment. Dr. Chen said the radioactive particle test showed Steve only has 2.8% blood flow between his liver and lungs. This is very good news as it means Steve qualifies for the Theraspheres treatment.
His first treatment is scheduled for March 15th 8:00am at the City of Hope. Following the treatment Steve will need to remain at home for one week with limited contact with the family and friends due to the radiation exposure. For Steve’s safety they will only treat one lobe of his liver at a time.
He will have a follow up appointment about one week after the Therasphere treatment with blood tests to check his liver function. He will then have a second treatment around the end of April to treat the other lobe of his liver.
Here is a link to a site with more detailed information on this treatment if you would like to know more.
http://www.nordion.com/therasphere/patients_us/about_therasphere.asp
We are excited about this opportunity to move forward with this treatment plan and will update you again following his treatment on the 15th. We greatly appreciate your prayers for the love and peace of God throughout all of this for Steve and the entire family.
We thank you all for your continued love and support. May God bless each of you and all those you love,
Sandi, Steve, Sarah, John, Laura and family
Retired CHP Chief Don Menzmer, ID 3937 Hospitalized
Date: March 8, 2012 2:56:00 PM PST
Kay Menzmer said that Don had a stroke Sunday night and is in Folsom Hospital. He will be moved today or tomorrow to a re-hab facility downtown Sacramento operated by Sutter Hospital. The stroke effected both sides, the left more than the right and he is having difficulty speaking. All signs are encouraging, and he is in good spirits. She will provide an address
once he is moved so friends can visit or send cards.
If you want to call Kay direct her cell phone number is (916) 296-0527.