Huntsman Cancer Institute: University of Utah Update

We had Kameron's Telehealth appointment(s) with the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah on Monday for second opinions from their sarcoma team. We met with their oncologist and oncology orthopedic surgeon. The doctors agreed with the diagnosis for Kameron's tumor, the treatment plan, and that the recommended surgical plan here is exactly what they would do if we were to go to Salt Lake City, Utah. Their outcomes, like Boise, are on par with the national average for his type of cancer. We also learned that there are no current medical studies for osteosarcoma that are looking promising (ie: better than the current protocols and standard of treatment) that they'd recommend to Kameron. It was reassuring that we are doing all the right things, but also kind of a blow. It left us feeling like the wind had been let out of our sails a bit. 

We were really hopeful that there was a way Kameron could avoid, what is essentially, a fancy (ie: more extensive) knee replacement. The surgeon there took his time with us and showed us Kam's MRI in detail. There is a less than 4 cm tumor in his right knee, but a lot of surrounding white signal that the surgeon said, "I'd bet my money on, is salt sprinkles of cancer cells!" Those extend into the knee joint itself. In an effort to get ALL the cancer cells and take wide margins, there is (unfortunately) no other way to remove the tumor. Kameron's surgery is anticipated to occur at the end of June/beginning of July. He will meet with the local oncology orthopedist next week to discuss a more definitive surgical plan to remove the tumor. 

Kameron's MRI of his knee. The doctor is pointing to the "salt sprinkles" of cancer below the larger (globular) tumor.

Kameron made it to his high school graduation last night! There were some tense moments that made us concerned it may not happen for him, but he persisted. We will do a separate post on that at a later date when we have photos and more time to share and put words to such a monumental occasion for our guy. I haven't seen him that happy in weeks and that made my momma heart leap for joy! It was a very quick couple days for him at home after his discharge from his most recent hospitalization, family came to town to celebrate this accomplishment, and as of 8 am this morning we were headed back to the hospital and he has been re-admitted for week #6 of chemotherapy. 

Chemo has been hard on his body causing bruises, dry skin, mouth sores, severe nausea and a poor appetite. This is a hardship for a guy who is a self described foodie. Prior to cancer, Kameron could handle anything super spicy. He'd say "not spicy enough" as nothing we could find was ever too spicy for him. Since the chemotherapy, he cannot eat such spicy things. It's kind of like Superman losing the ability to fly. He has lost quite a bit of weight, so once he gets discharged home from the hospital, we need to prioritize staying on top of his nausea and him eating as much as he can tolerate. As Dr. Meeker (one of the team of oncologists Kam has) says, "there is a lot of data that says if you aren't well nourished, cancer cells have a way of coming back. And we don't want that." Kameron is more determined then ever to do what he can to beat this beast.  He has been planning his post-hospitalization menu in detail.

Please keep Kameron in prayer as this cycle of treatment has been particularly intense and grueling. Pray we can keep spirits up, weight up, and that Jesse and I can find moments to get the rest we need in this season. We are grateful to everyone who continues to check in with us, who have come alongside our journey in various ways, who send love & encouragement, and to our family for their recent visit. It has sustained us through some tough moments.  Much love to you all.