John Bear is Away

The word for day is Daratumumab (pronounced dah-rah-TOO-moo-mab, in case you want to work it into conversation).

The many kind remarks are truly appreciated, and I thank you all. \

Here is what'a up. Just before last Christmas, I had a bone marrow biopsy, which found that I have multiple myeloma, an incurable but quite treatable form of bone marrow cancer. As mammy of you will know, the future of cancer therapy lies very much in the direction of immune system therapy, and the good news for people like me is that there is a quite new Swedish breakthrough called 'as you have guessed, Daratumumab. The clinical trials were going so well that the FDA put it on fast track to market, and I benefit. One 6 to 8 hour infusion a week. And they continue to use the previous treatment of choice, Thalidomide (of all things), a daily dose of that as chemo. (I had to sign a pledge that I am not pregnant.)

My oncologist says that when one gets myeloma at my age (that would be 81), the odds are pretty good that something else will get me first.

Thalidomide (trade name Revlimid) has many side effects other than terrible one for which it is famous, and I am suffering from low energy and, most annoyingly, blurred vision. But I shall continue to look in here regularly, and respond from time time to time, and I wish you all well. Yeah, even those guys.

 

John, you have many people sending you good vibes, thoughts, and prayers. Pick whichever or all of them that you like. Stay strong, treatment is miles better than it was even just a few years ago.

 

Glad to hear from you, John. I didn't want to say much, figuring that was for you upon your return. Welcome back--and not just here.

 

Hi John
Just wanted to let you know a story from Australia. I was a young detective from the wrong side of the tracks slogging my way through a distance learning degree with a local highly structured uni.
Could not meet the assignment dates etc because people would inconsiderately get murdered, raped or robbed or all the above.
I saw a small ad in a newspaper about your book. I bought it and enrolled in the University of the State of NY. Graduated with a bachelors and now have three Masters Degrees.
I was doing my Doctorate but had bowel cancer and had a significant fight on my hands. Recovered and now cancer free.
Best of luck with the treatment regime. I know how it feels. AND Thank you!!!

 

You know I read a lot of biographies. Multiple times has it come up that not too many years ago, diabetes was a terminal diagnosis. Now, while not an ideal state, it's managed and can be managed for decades.

It's crazy to me that cancer is, in some cases, joining that club as well.

I hope your treatment goes well and your side effects are few. We look forward to your company for years to come.

 

Get well, Dr. Bear! I, too, owe my DL pathway to this man.