About Me

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Bakersfield, CA, United States
Hans was a busy, happy, sweet and fearless three year old when he was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. He fought his disease like a "gladiator" for nearly 6 years. Hans was an animal lover to his core. He was 'guarded' at home by his three cats, Black, Orange and Cotton. He also had his Golden Retriever, Honey, to keep him company. Hans enjoyed swimming, biking, gardening, grilling (he had his very own grill!), horseback riding, playing video games, building Legos, and flipping between Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network and Animal Planet. Hans loved all members of his family and he was a loyal friend. He had to go through a lot of treatment in his life. But Hans powered through it. His attitude was let's get this done! His motivation was always to get back home, to his family, pets, favorite foods and pool.

Wednesday, October 05, 2011

MIBG, MRI done, CT tomorrow

We've been down in LA for two days. (Thanks for the hospitality Aimee!)
Hans has had an MRI, labs and an MIBG scan. We'll go back tomorrow for a CT scan too.

We've got some pretty good news. Stable bony disease in about three spots, spine, pelvis and head with great improvement to the head from the midsummer scans. We are concerned about some very bulgy lymph nodes at the neck that are suspicious for disease.

We'll be moving off Irinotecan/Temodor, not because Hans progressed on it, but because it wasn't doing enough.

We are debating our options. We are looking at some of the NANT trials and are strongly considering an antibody/immunotherapy.

We have about a week and a half to make our decision. Hans will possibly have a BIOPSY of the lymph nodes on Monday. We are considering some other options like radiating the spine. Unfortunately, you can't often use radiation while on a trial.
We're working on all of that.

Ultimately we are thankful that we didn't get bad news today. We are thankful that Hans still has "a lot" of options.

Hans is looking forward to some good family time. Grandma Kathy is coming down next week:)

7 comments:

The Nusbaums said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
The Nusbaums said...

Lara,
So thankful to hear the news of stable scans. I know you, Kevin, and Hans' team will work to provide him the best treatment options available. You are all in my thoughts and prayers!

Charon said...

Hi Lara,
Happy to read of stable scans. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way. I know it's tough making those treatment option decisions but it sounds like you have some great doctors there and you will be able to get Hans on a new plan soon. Enjoy your family time this weekend.

Much love to you all,
Charon

Anonymous said...

So Glad that there is no progression of the disease. Will be praying for you guys as you decide on the next step.

Hope you all get to have a lot of play time for the week!

Love, Claire

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful family you are...
Glad to hear the scans turned out okay and that you get to have some 'down' time at home for a bit. Kath is so looking forward to her visit down there. You'll all have a good time, I'm sure. Hans & your whole family, as always, in my prayers! Wendi R.

Anonymous said...

Great news!

"Team Hans" continues to make well-informed, wise decisions!

Grandma Kathy is excited about her upcoming visit! I know everyone will have fun and enjoy her creativity and loving attentions!

Thinking of all of you from afar with love, hugs, and prayers!

Aunt Susy

Anonymous said...

Erin and Grammy Pati are sending this note to say "Hi" to all of you guys in California. Love, Erin P. Maxwell