March 29th

After a lengthy stay at home, Claire returned to Sutter Memorial late Sunday due to a high fever. It turned out she had an infection and has remained hospitalized receiving antibiotic treatment. This is very common for patients who have received high chemo doses for extended periods. It brought back the reality of Claire's ongoing battle. We have chosen to undergo a 9 cycle (12 months) maintenance chemo protocol with the hope that this will keep the disease from growing and or spreading. She has beaten the odd's and with all the continued support, prayer and positive thoughts there is no reason to believe the positive results will end. We have chosen this option -vs- full craniospinal radiation therapy which is considered the standard of care. With much thought, we are looking for the best quality of life results for our Claire. The treatment should not be as brutal on her body but with what she has already undergone we expect some difficult periods. As of today, we expect to begin cycle 1 on Sunday. All of this treatment will take place at Sutter Memorial.

Keep believing in "Super" Claire.

March 21, 2007

I have heard from many that they are awaiting details on Claire's status. I am hoping Shannon will have time this weekend to give a detailed report. I can share with you all that Claire is feeling great, enjoying the health that comes when given a break from the high doses of therapy she has undergone.

Thanks is never enough.

Keep on thinking, praying, and believing in Claire.

I Know I Can

Crosby Loggins and Band wearing Claire's "I Know You Can" bracelet at a recent performance

March 15, 2007

Another quick update for all. Claire is doing well and enjoying life at home. We are about 4 weeks out from her last treatment and again are facing the unknown. As mentioned earlier, we were expecting a 2nd surgery. But as seems to often be the case, we were wrong. Claire's neurosurgeon presented his opinion to Shannon and I on Wednesday. In brief, the risks are greater than the reward. Next week we will meet with the Oncology team to determine the next treatment. It will most likely be a protocol of maintenance chemotherapy for a period of 6-12 months. Claire has beaten the odds so far and we see no reason why her "winning streak" can't continue. Each day, month, year, that we can avoid radiation therapy will improve the cognitive outcome for her. It is our hope that she will overcome this disease without having to undergo radiation therapy. If anyone can be that minority statistic, it will be Claire.

Thanks to all again. Hard to believe 8 months have passed since this began. We couldnt have gotten this far without all the support, prayer, and positive thoughts. Please continue as it has made a difference.

March 1st, 2007

A quick note to Claire's team. Claire returned home last Wednesday. Again showing her amazing spirit, beating another challenge. She underwent her MRI scan yesterday and the results were positive. The questionable enhancement is still there, but with no signs of growth or spreading of the disease within her CNS. That is good news. We will be meeting soon with our oncology team to discuss our options. She will most likely undergo a 2nd brain surgery to determine the pathology of the abnormal tissue/tumor. It still is a day to day battle for her but I sense some light to our darkness. We feel blessed and are so appreciative of all the love, support, and prayer. She is staying true to her amazing spirit with a courage that has never wavered.

Thank you all and KNOW THAT CLAIRE CAN AND WILL.