What do I know about cancer trials? …not much. Any knowledge I have was picked up watching countless episodes of medical dramas on TV back in the day so, yeah, not a lot of valuable info in this noggin.

I do know that people decide to participate in clinical trials for many reasons. For some, a clinical trial is the best treatment option available when standard treatments are not working. These patients are willing to face the uncertainty of a clinical trial for the possibility of a better result.

Others volunteer for clinical trials because they know that these studies are a way to contribute to treating colorectal cancer. Even if they do not benefit directly from the clinical trial, their participation may benefit future patients.

Clinical trials have certain rules called “eligibility criteria” that help structure the research and keep patients safe. The result is that not everyone who volunteers is chosen.

Why all this talk about clinical trials? Hold on to your grab bars, cause this roller coaster is taking a turn.

Hans and I met with a professional at Fl Cancer Center today to discuss a clinical trial they are participating in. The study is to test an investigational drug called DKN– 01 in combination with the usual standard treatment for patients with advanced colorectal cancer. Investigational means that the drug being tested has not been approved for routine clinical use from the FDA or local health authorities.

Here’s the skinny.

Patients with certain cancers have been shown to have high levels of a protein, called DKK1, in their tumors. This pesky protein has been shown to suppress the bodies immune system They attack cancers and help spread the cancer cells outside the tumor to other parts of the body. What a baddie!!!!The Experimental drug blocks DKK1 and has been shown to slow the growth of some cancers in laboratory studies.

If I decide to put my name in the hat, I’ll have to give blood and have a physical exam. I’ll have to be selected.

If I don’t get accepted, I can continue on with more chemo minus the experimental drug (which may or may not have done anything for my condition).

Or I can stop treatment. Honestly, before speaking to Dr Berry by phone this afternoon, I was leaning towards this option. Stopping will result in eventual tumor growth and blockage. Resources like Pain management centers and Hospice are available to help with the pain and I will check into that too. Sooner or later, all paths lead to the same destination so I may as well be ready.

Hans and I have the weekend to decide on whether or not to join the trials. I’m holding off judgement till I see how I’m feeling in a few days. I feel so much better now that Gutz had been drained. I’m eager to see if my quality of life improves. It’s all a race against an invisible clock.