Yaffe rhymes with Coffey

It was good day. Deb was able to finalize switch over to Oncologist, Dr. Yaffe in our follow up appointment today at Cumberland.

Quick Summary
Sandostatin daily treatments were stopped today at Dr. Yaffe’s recommendations based on how well Deb has adapted to the medicine. Yeah! We and especially Deb were so relieved to hear this news. Her monthly LAR injections will be 30mg and switched to every two weeks. This was based on recommendation from Dr. Ahlgren @ George Washington in DC.

Results from recent parathyroid ultrasound and nuclear medicine tests confirmed previous diagnosed thyroid nodule in neck. Will get follow up information from Dr. Lucarini for next step preparation for surgery.

Discussed chemo/bland embolization and hepatic pump treatment options documented in Dr. Ahlgren’s letter. He indicated that the hepatic pump is being used at Piedmont and is good to know that it could be administered locally if we go down that path. It was encouraging that Dr. Yaffe was cautiously open to pursuing these all as viable treatment options after he researches further and discusses with us more next week.

Discussed the microscopic surgery to remove pancreas tumor as recommended from Dr. Kim at Emory. Dr. Yaffe did not immediately understand the value of this surgery since Deb’s pancreas tumor size was much smaller and recommended that we focus on the liver first. More research in this area necessary.

Base on today’s appointment, we are delighted that Dr. Yaffe is on board with us in finalizing Deb’s winning strategy treatment options.

Deb continues to slowly build more strength daily now except for some fatigue in her legs and discomfort in her abdominal area. She is in good spirits and we will continue our walks to help build her strength back. I love to watch her sleep! Today was uplifting to Deb and was wonderful to witness that doctor- patient bond that is so important to her.

Dr. Yaffe, you are wonderful man and is so true what everyone says about you. You bring us a step closer in search for that “John Coffey” treatment.


Shalom and KTS!
Rod and Deb

We love your pictures beautiful Paige :)
All of Deb's little friends: Please keep your masterpiece pictures coming in.

Something special about you and me. Something special about our love..
Randy Newman