For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

Saturday, July 23, 2011

CML Medications and Research

This is fascinating stuff! The ability to create targeted cancer drugs is due, at least in part, to knowledge about DNA and genes acquired from the Human Genome Project. The article doesn't mention him, but Francis Collins, MD, Director of the National Institutes of Health, was the head of the Human Genome Project and arguably the most intelligent person of our time. His TED talk giving his Christian testimony is no longer available online, but I found this interview that reflects Dr. Collins faith, intelligence, and personality.

I am taking Tasigna (Nilotinib), one of the second generation drugs discussed in this article. (Gleevec, the drug discussed in the above link, is the first generation drug.)

Being personally affected by cancer (or another disease) makes one aware of the urgency of research to continue to develop better treatments. On October 15, 2011, my family and I, along with as many friends as would like to join us, plan to walk in the Raleigh Light the Night Walk to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  All the funds raised in this event will support research on blood cancers.  Many of the drugs developed for blood cancers have been approved to treat other cancers as well. You can support or join our team at this link.  Scroll down to allocate your donation to a specific team member.  Thank you for supporting us in whatever way you can, whether by donating, walking with us, praying for us, or offering encouragement.

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