My brother is 41 and was diagnosed last year in March. At that time he had his right kidney removed, however, he was already Stage III and is now Stage IV. Currently he treats with a Renal Cancer specialist at the UPCI (University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute) Hillman Cancer Center. They are very good and having worked in Health Care myself for over 25 years, I did my homework immediately. At any rate, he is now on Thalidomide every day (100 mg.) and Vinblastine. So far the metastases to his lung (via the lymphatic system of course, a lymph node!) is stable. He has received two full cycles and actually we are going back tomorrow for repeat CT scans, which are done every 2 months, to compare to baseline scans and check for status of disease. So far, so good. We all pray a lot and I believe very much in prayer as the Man up above has the final word regardless of anything. They are finding new treatments every day with this devastating disease. I know the side effects are not pleasant for the more aggressive treatment, but if he has to go that route, he is willing to try whatever he must. The Cancer Compass is great as are the people at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Had we been able to travel, I would have chosen them although we do have excellent facilities here in Pittsburgh. This facility is brand new and rated 11th in the country and climbing!!
I would appreciate your input also and I will relay this info to my brother and if it's okay with him, I will give him your e-mail address. Thank you and may God Bless. I will keep you in my prayers.
Sharyn (Yannone) S.