Nws from Dr. M.

Sophie and Brendan's three girls are ready for Halloween—most dramatically fearsome, Gracie; and right there with her, Katie; and just a little somber, Sarah. How sweet these girls are and how much we love them. Cowgirl Sarah is pleased to show her drawing at the top.

Dear Friends and Family,

I am writing with the big news that I heard from Dr. M. this afternoon; his nurse practitioner in charge of a drug trial thinks I am a "fit," so we are going in to Mt. Sinai on Thursday for various tests. This trial is one that did not fit me some months ago, but some parameters have changed so that I can probably be part of it. Its effect, if it works, is to help the fibrotic condition of my bone marrow, which would slow down the progress of the cancer. It may not have any effect on my spleen, and there are lots of caveats attached, including what may be deleterious effects of the drug (just think of reading the insert that comes with the drugs your doc wants you to take—only worse). It entails visits to the hospital for infusions every two weeks—and lots and lots of tests, including some I have been avoiding, and some I have had before, like bone marrow biopsy. Dr. M. has done that before, so I am familiar with how he works it. Anyway, I am eager to try anything that can improve my situation.

In addition, it seems we will have no problem finding someone to take Sonia's place±—though in essence no one could take her place. One woman came today—and if her reference checks out, she will be good I think. I liked her right away. Others are coming on Wed.

Laury came over today for a little over an hour, and we worked on the Macbeth chapter. I was amazed that my mind seemed to work; she has drawn material mainly from my book and has been artfully condensing it. She also went for a walk with me.

That's all for today, I think. No use writing about meals because they were quite ordinary, cobbled together from what is on hand.

Love and Good wishes to all,
Bernice