Got the results of the PET/CT scan. Not good. The messenteric mass with 16 SUV and 5.4cm x 8.2 cm increased by almost 300% to 8.4 cm x 14.4 cm and the SUV increased to 20!. Completely encasing my colon (but no significant pain, yet). So we are stopping the Bendamustine and Dr. Cheson gave me 2 options. Since he is the lead researcher in a phase 2 clinical trials study with 2 arms (small cell and large cell), he put my name into Genentech for approval. I was turned down since I have both small and large cell. They were looking to test their drugs against either small or large cell (but not both in the same patient). So here we go with plan B - goal get me into remission to commence an ASCT ASAP. This ones lovely: I will be admitted later today into Georgetown Hospital Lombardi Cancer Center for 5 to 6 days. The protocol involves a Part A and a Part B (developed for fast cell growing leukemia). Believe it or not, Part A involves 5 days (24 hrs/day) of essentially R-CHOP (without the Prednisone). Then Neulasta shot when I get out. Then on day 14 another infusion of Vincristine (really concerned about the neuropathy (remember, I am a bass player - last time it went away after a short while). Then when my blood levels return, I will be admitted again for Part B (Cytarabine, Methotrexate and Leucovorin). This is one cycle. I don't know how many cycles he is looking for prior to the next PET/CT scan. I'm hoping 2 (4 hospitalizations).

I went out yesterday to find pajamas (you can't find mens PJs with buttoned tops - I have a Mediport). So I went to Kohls and bought some inexpensive fleece shirts to where there.

Got my will, living will, durable power of attorney, and living trust material witnessed and notarized last night. Seems like this is a great time to have those in place.

The last time I was an inpatient was 55 years ago, when I swallowed a quarter. A bit anxious about this, but really, at this point don't have much choice, so I am just kinda numb.

I emailed Cheson yesterday to look for clarification about why Part A could be used (especially in light of the fact that I have previously had 4 rounds of R-CHOP). We'll do another cardiac workup for the Adriamyacin, and on the neuropathy side they'll watch for it and limit the offending drugs (Vincristine). Again rationale - fastest way to the transplant! PS He responded to my email in 8 minutes (so far he's been great about that).

Down side: I just got my eyebrowes and eyelashes back. I figure 22 days, and they're gone again. Not happy, but thoroughly understand the alternative.

I stood up with both Docs in the room and said look at me, I'm healthy, I look fine. Cheson responded, if we don't nail this immediately, you will not be ... very fast.

So, it's into the hospital today (as soon as they free up a bed for me). Thanks for all of your support. I am quite sure that this is not going to be fun. But we'll get through!!

All the best,
Dave

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Orig. Stage 3A, Gr 1 fNHL (10/11 W&W 6 mos). Then dx Stage 4, DLBCL w/10 & 11cm messenteric masses (Dx 5/12 w/new biopsy & PET scan). R-CHOP 4x (6/5/12) - failed. Then R-ICE 4x -failed. Now Bendamustine (also failed). 60 yrs. w/lifetime in bodybuilding.