Gee Family Update, 1/15/09

Hi everyone!

Let's start with GREAT news. Over the last few weeks my dad has been taking a drug called Sutent, it's a targeted drug that specifically treats kidney cancer. He met with his doctor today to discuss the effectiveness of the medication, "significant improvements in all areas" were the words from the doctor. Praise God!!!!
The medication is having wonderful success on my dad's kidney cancer, in fact one of the masses has shrunk to half the original size! The doctors are very encouraged by the results and have asked my dad to continue the medication and come back for another visit in a couple of months.

Now Jodie, she's been on a drug called Cyclosporine. It's supposed to help her bone marrow recover and start to produce blood cells by suppressing her immune system. But today she stopped taking the drug because it is elevating her blood pressure and causing increased levels of bilirubin in her body. To treat the high blood pressure the doctor prescribed another drug for her, but that has brought on another side effect, severe nausea.
She continues to stay at her mother's during this time. But it's difficult being apart, especially right now since I can't do anything to help her. But we're hoping this measure reduces her exposure to germs, viruses etc and improves her chances of staying healthy.
Jodie has been feeling well otherwise, no fevers, good energy and a good appetite.

Just a few prayer requests:
-Praise God for my dad's improved health!
-Pray that Jodie's blood pressure and bilirubin count return to normal levels
-Pray that the nausea goes away and she's able to rest comfortably
-Pray that our kids continue to adjust well and stay healthy

Thank you all for walking along side us, we praise God for His love and grace.

In His care,
-The Gees