Article Re My Mom In The "Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network" - 1260010

Thank you for this article, Laya. I have wondered why Tarceva is not used routinely outside of a stage 1V setting, and this article helps me understand a bit. There is just so much that is not known about the mechanics of lung cancer.

Alas, this is why I favor a cautious approach in extrapolating findings from stage IV disease into a different setting. Still, it's fair to remind ourselves that absence of proof isn't proof of absence, and in the real world we need to make the best decisions we can with limited information, relying on our best judgment to fill in the holes. In other words that are more concise, "hindsight is 20/20", as you said.

I'll also say that despite my general caution, I have certainly favored treatments outside of their proven clinical setting when it seemed appropriate and the patient was well informed of the lack of a clear best approach. We all just do the best we can.

If it provides any comfort, your mother's case provides a very instructive proof of principle that will lead to a better understanding of the biology of lung cancer. No small task.

-Dr. West

Laya,

Thanks for sharing that article, difficult as it is. All I can say is your Mom exerted her uniqueness all through her life and expressed it even in her illness - so much so as to be written into journals. Her case opened up questions whose answers will save lives. I'm just sorry she and you had to have this journey (that we're all on...). And I thank you for all the knowledge and experience you shared with GRACE through it all.

Hugs,
Jazz

Laya,

Thank you for sharing the article. I understand how you feel. Although progress in treating lung cancer never seems to move quickly enough, the knowledge base is expanding every day and I often wish that some of that knowledge had been available during Liz's illness. But we made the best choices we could with the information that was available at the time, and I am heartened to see members of GRACE community and others who are on their cancer journey benefit from continuing advances in lung cancer care.

Sending my best wishes for peace, my friend,

JimC
Forum moderator

Laya, I too want to thank you for sharing this with all of us, I'm sure it was hard for you. She's making a difference in LC and leaving a legacy for others. Always think of you and hope you're doing well.
Take care, Judy

Laya,

You and your Mom have shared so much with the LC community and even in death, her case is still offering information that will continue to advance the science for those that come after.

From someone who is walking the walk with this terrible disease, I only hope, when it is my turn, that something is learned to help those that come after.

The goal, of course, being that some day those that come after do not have to endure the terrible course of this disease.

Thank you for all you have shared with us and all that you continue to share.

Peace and love to you and yours,
Lembird

Laya, I'm a firm believer our loved ones never leave us and I know your Mom is very proud of you for all the support you have continued to give all of us still dealing with Lung Cancer! I thank you for sharing the article too! Lorrie