Molly, who was the 2nd dog to receive the vaccine in the Mason Bone Cancer Study is not faring as well as we all hoped she would. Here’s an update on beautiful Molly from her mom Jennifer.
On November 27th, Molly had her 2 month appointment at UPenn. Her bloodwork was excellent-completely normal and her physical exam went well. Unfortunately, her 3 tumors doubled in size in just 3 weeks and a 4th tumor has appeared. She seems to be sleeping more and her legs are stiff when she walks. Dr. Mason explained that is a normal symptom. We have one more option and that is to begin the oral medication Paladia. Some Oncologists believe it can shrink tumors.
Molly is asleep next to me as I am writing this. She is exhausted from spending the day in Philadelphia, but she clearly loves Dr. Mason. There was the sad realization that today may very well be the last time they see each other.
Molly was just started on Palladia It is an oral pill given Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. A one month supply cost a little over $600-not cheap. Mark’s cousin, Dr. Cermele had been a resident at RedBank Animal hospital and strongly encouraged us to try Palladia. The chief Oncologist there, Dr. Clifford had conducted a study that showed Palladia can stabilize the size of the tumors sometimes for up to 22 weeks. We will see.
We were saddened to hear that Molly’s tumors increased in size, but we are hoping, wishing, and crossing all our fingers and toes that Paladia will make a difference for Molly. May she be with you for a long time to come.