Hello friends!  Oh, where do I begin?  It’s all such an experience!  Coming to an ancient land that has been a journey of hope for many, it’s hard to put into words.  I have waited to post, hoping we would have a definite plan for Daisy that we could share, but it could be another week, as first we have to determine exactly what the spots on Daisy’s lungs are with a radiology specialist and possible ultrasound and maybe another CT.  We have met with Dr. Slavin from the International Center for Cell Therapy and Cancer Immunotherapy, a couple of times and have discussed different options for Daisy’s treatment.  They range from very safe to very risky.  The doctor formulates a very specific personal plan according to Daisy’s previous treatments, current condition, and progress.

The immunotherapies are designed to teach Daisy’s own immune system cells to search and destroy cancer cells, getting every last one.  Dr. Slavin says that since her tumor keeps coming back that her body is not recognizing those cells.  He will be doing a number of things that I will briefly explain on updates as he does them, crazy things with words like “T” cells, “NK” cells, Allogenaeic vaccine.  So far Daisy has been receiving Oncothermia, a new technology that weakens cancer cells through high heat at the cellular level.  It’s painless and doesn’t involve needles or nausea.

There is so much to hope for here, so many things to enjoy.  We are making the best of this crazy life that we know how.  In between doctor visits we are exploring meandering roads, checking out ruins, trying new flavors.  The Mediterranean Sea is so warm and clear!  We are determined to hang out at every beach in the country, as well as every Shwarma stand!  Daisy and Isaiah have a running game of who can find the most feral cats (Jaffa is chock full).  We have fallen in love with so many “Sabras” (native born Israelis), who we have found warm and helpful, and met hilarious people of all ages.  When I asked one old woman with a deep tan, white bikini and matching sunglasses where the bathroom was she tipped her head back, gave a belly laugh, and told me to “make pee pee in the sea!”  Britt has been driving like a local, laying on the horn.  At first we were offended by so much honking, but now, well…  when in Rome!

Thank you friends, for loving us.  Thank you for supporting us and helping Daisy get another chance.  Thank you for praying…

-Kate