Hello All,

Okay, here are the details about my mom Patti. As most of you know, she was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor inside her vena cava last fall. This tumor turned out to be a very rare type of cancer known as leiomyosarcoma. She also has metastasis to her liver, lungs, and scalp.

Treatment for LMS is basically experimental. What works for one person may or may not work for another. The preferred treatment is surgical removal of the cancer with clear margins. Often, the tumor can not be removed due to location, size, or metastasis. In this case, the patient will undergo chemotherapy and/or radiation. Again, these may or not be effective. Other options include clinical trials for drugs that are being tested for LMS. Because it is a rare cancer, LMS does not get the exposure and, consequently, the research and funding of other diseases. It can efect anyone at any age.

Since mom's diagnosis in October, surgery has been ruled out (at this time). She has undergone six rounds of chemotherapy (Gem/Tax) and is curently involved in a clinical trial in San Antonio with the drug Sorenafib. To this point she has no new growth in either the primary tumor or the mets (hurray).

The type and location of this tumor make my Mom one in a million, but those who know her already know that. She has been a powerful influence in my life and the lives of others. She raised me by example. She always lends a hand to those in need without wanting anything in return. She has touched numerous lives. Since her diagnosis she has learned to cherish each day and not waste any time. She travels and visits family and friends (the grandkids get priority) and just scheduled a cruise in Hawaii for her,and Dad with her sister and brother-in-law.

I am now asking for people to help her and others beat this disease. I have enclosed contact information below and anything will help. Email me with questions, comments and pledges. 

Thanks you for your generosity,

Maki Lloyd

maki@tri4awareness.com