Celia/Everyone
First of all thank you very much for your reply. I wonder if i could just ask you a bit more? The consultant told me Tarceva is only sanctioned for second line use in lung cancer. He also says he wonders if my dad is well enough to have the usual 'chemo regime'. As Tarceva seems to be more effective, easily adminstered and with less toxic side effects than traditional chemo, i am at a losss to know why he shouldn't be allowed it, so far as i can see it's down to NICE guidelines and politics,money. Why should he be given the harsh chemo in the first place and if it doesn't work (and he's well enough) to cope with anymore treatment then he could be a candidate for Tarceva. Tarceva has been filed by Roche for use as first line treament in lung cancer earlier this year, i'm sure in time it will get the go ahead, like it has in other parts of the world, my worry is timescale!
It's unbelievable, he's being denied his rights to a better quality of life. I do feel that the window of opportunity is closing a little each day that goes by. My father has an appointment with the Consultant on Friday 19th June and other than hold a gun to his head and demand Traceva i don't know how to get any further. You mentioned going to my MP do you think this would help put pressure on?
Celia could you tell me what traditional and now 'alternative' treatments you have had for your lung cancer and how you are doing?
Kindest Regards
Craig
