A little unusual for something like this to happen. A man who begins to take the pill is a drastic measure. Okay, it’s really not that pill, but hopefully it made you laugh. I know I cracked myself up! 

Dave’s mucositis will not heal entirely on its own. He is now resistant to the medication designed to heal mucositis. The reason for this is because he has been on the medicine far too long. Most of the mouth and throat ulcers, which have plagued him for over 10 weeks, have slowly been repaired by the rise in his immune system. But, a few sores remain and the sores will be a revolving issue unless addressed with a different medication. Once again, we are running out of options with medications as this continues to stall his recovery. 

This week, we met with the infectious disease doctor and he suggested yet another clinical study for Dave. The study has two options. One option requires hospitalization with constant IV meds, one of which Dave is not a big fan. The other option is a pill (pritelivir) that he would take daily. This would require us to report to Karmanos every other day in order to measure his progress. The trial could last 28 days, demanding 14 road trips to Detroit. The 130-mile round trip is already becoming old; nevertheless, getting “the pill” is easier on his kidneys and presents fewer side effects than the IV hospitalization option.

The bottom line is the choice was not up to us. It is randomized to which option you will participate. We said a quick prayer as we waited to hear if Dave would be hospitalized or put on the pill. All Saints Day has always been a blessed day for us personally, so we never doubted today would be any different. He was chosen to participate with option No. 2 – taking the pill. He will be one out of 30 participating in this national clinical trial.  

So, he’s on the pill. Hope it works! 🤣