Just heard from my Aunt.

"As you may know, Dan has completed three rounds of chemo. Within the last two weeks, the pain has almost been unbearable - literally taken him to his knees. We assumed the pain was the expected pain which comes with bone cancer; however, now his oncologist isn't sure. He has extreme pain in his shoulder, spine, hips and legs. He has almost lost the use of his left arm. The doctor isn't sure if a tumor is pinching a nerve or what. Today he had an extended MRI of the chest, and tomorrow he goes back for another MRI of the shoulder (these are done with and without contrast - haven't a clue what that means!). They are trying to see what's going on in the soft tissue.

He's now taking massive does of pain meds - just about anything that begins with "Oxy!" When I call, I'm not sure if he remembers our last conversation or not. He's really loopy! I laugh and tell him that's why this stuff has such a street value. Even with the humongous doses, his pain is still at a "6." He's not sleeping at night and has virtually no appetite - his weight is down to 148 as of today!!

If I understand correctly, if they discover a tumor which could be reduced by radiation, they might start down that road. The good news is that the chemo seems to be reducing the number of cancer cells. The bad news is this cancer will keep popping up in new places and his "quality" of life lessens with each day. He still is very concerned about Barbara and has even tried to give her some foot massages to help her relax. She is a jewel indeed - often staying awake for hours to use a heated massager on his neck and shoulders to relieve the pain. I'm so thankful that she's in our lives and I love her dearly.

Another round of chemo should start in about a week (August 4 or 5), provided his blood work will allow. The cancer has really trashed his blood, but we're hopeful that he can continue to take it! I've always heard that chemo will either cure you or kill you!!"