Support Registry Update

Next steps

In support of
The Steinhaus Family
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It’s been a rough week, with a lot of developments—maybe an up or two, mostly downs. 

Andrew has been researching clinical trials with open slots that target a different gene mutation (KRAS, present in about 90% of pancreas cancer patients) vs. BRCA (present in a very small percentage of patients). There is a lot of competition to get into KRAS trials, and for at least one promising trial, there are no open slots anywhere in the US. 

We saw his NYU doctor this morning, and this is the plan for now.

  1. Restart chemo on Wednesday. Andrew will take the same drug combo as last year. We were concerned that he was mounting a resistance in the fall, but his doctor thinks growth was isolated and it’s worth retrying. We will watch the bloodwork closely and reassess often. Andrew is worried about the return of cold sensitivity and cumulative neuropathy effects. He already has constant numbness in both hands and feet. 
  2. Continue to look for phase 1 or 2 trials that guarantee the investigational drug, as opposed to a randomized chance to get the drug or do chemo. We were put in touch with someone who works in research at a drug company and is trying to help find different trial options. This is much better than what we can do on our own, but the process is inefficient and difficult no matter who does it. NYU’s phase 1 team is advocating for him, but, again, the process for getting off a waitlist can be opaque, even if you work at a hospital.
  3. If the chemo stops working before finding an early-phase trial, Andrew will enroll in a phase 3 trial where you have a 50/50 chance of getting KRAS drug or second-line chemo. The second-line chemo will make him lose his hair, which he really doesn’t want. The treatment schedule is chemo three weeks straight then one week off. 

Elyse Steinhaus
about 1 year ago

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Comments

Deb Long

Thank you for the update; continuing to send prayers and hugs to all of you. Stay strong Andrew!!
  • about 1 year ago

June Littlepage

Dear Precious Family: The golden prayer bowls of heaven is being filled for you Andrew. Each family member is being remembered, loved, prayed for and cared for. Your lives have touched our lives and your needs and concerns matter. You are heard and you are loved. Thank you for the update and thank you for staying strong in the Lord. Remember the story from Daniel 3:15-28 like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendego we are not alone. Deuteronomy 31 says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you, He will never leave you nor forsake you." Will keep praying and look forward to the day we all meet in person.
  • about 1 year ago

Chris Reynolds

Andrew and Elyse, Praying for you all! God has a perfect plan. As you continue to seek Him in your seach with Andrew's doctors for the best treatment, He will faithfully guide you. I can't imagine how hard this journey is. Your faith shines through and blesses us all. I'm privileged to be praying from GA. May your faith continue to grow as the Lord upholds you with His mighty right arm. He promises He won't leave you and nothing can separage you from His love in Christ Jesus. Wisdom, strenth and peace be yours in Jesus, trusting Him for healing. Prayers and love , Chris
  • about 1 year ago

Mary Alice Cashin

Andrew and Elyse - So sorry you are having to fight this battle. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
  • about 1 year ago

Francesco Deluca

Keep fighting.
  • about 1 year ago

Teri Garner

It is so difficult to go through this convoluted path to healing. My heart feels your hearts. Matt. 4:23 Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness among the people. Praise God Love all Keep faith Hope always
  • about 1 year ago

Debbie Smith

Our hearts hurt for what y’all are going through, especially Andrew. There is still hope, so keep fighting. God has a plan, continue to be strong. Love y’all, Jim and Debbie
  • about 1 year ago

Richard Salsano

The news that seems more negative will always be tougher to deal with. Keep your hopes and spirits up and focus on whatever the doctors recommend as the best course of action. I know it must be scary dealing with recent results but don't let any negativity settle in and impact your approach. You both have shown such strength and resolve and I know you will continue to do so. We are all here to offer whatever support and positivity we can, so take all of that positivity and channel it however possible. Stay strong.
  • about 1 year ago

Joni Woolf

Youall remain in our thoughts and prayers, and encourage you to pursue every possibility. In love...
  • about 1 year ago
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