Hi Everyone,

This is coming from Dan, and for those who have not met me, I am Michael Lowrie's partner. As all of you know by now, Michael is going through a difficult life challenge with his recent diagnosis of glioblastoma multiforme (brain tumor). As many family and friends have been calling to inquire about his condition, and as he is obviously loved by so many, I have decided that the best way to keep everyone current is by way of a group email. I hope that everyone will understand my intention, which is to share important information, so that Mike doesn't have to repeat the information with each call.

I want to encourage everyone to continue calling and visiting when possible. Mike loves to hear from each of you, and will benefit from your optimism and affection. I just know that he is easily fatigued these days, and will likely be more so in the near future.

As a starting point, Mike has already had surgery to remove the tumor. With this type of resection, 95 percent of the tumor is removed, yet cancer cells always remain. Today we met with the Radiation Oncology Department at UCSF. The doctor explained that prior to beginning his treatment, Mike to need two planning appointments.

The first appointment will likely be at the beginning of next week, and is called a "simulation." At this appointment they will take x-rays and CT scans of Mike's head. They will merge these with the prior images to form a radiation plan. Also at this appointment they will mold a mask of Mike's head which will assist them in planning where to position the rays. The idea is for them to have Mike in the same position everyday of radiation treatment to hit the correct targets.

The second appointment if considered the "dry run." Mike to go through all the paces of a radiation session, yet will not receive any rays that day. He will lie on the radiation table to match up with the computer images.

Mike's radiation treatment will consist of 30 treatment days, which are usually Monday-Friday. Each session will take about 20 minutes, yet the actual radiation takes only about 5-10 minutes.

All of Mike's treatment will run concurrently for 6 weeks. This will consist of radiation, chemotherapy, and Avastin. The chemotherapy is an oral medication, which has proven to be quite effective, and has few side effects. Mike will also participate in a protocol of Avastin, which is another medication which is given by way of an infusion every two weeks. This medication takes away the blood supply to the tumor, essentially starving the cancer.

So far we are very pleased with the medical care Mike is receiving. The doctors have been very thorough in their explanation at each phase. At today's appointment, the radiation oncologist gave us a good healthy dose of optimism. She said that Mike is currently symptom free, and in great health. She has several patients with similar a similar diagnosis who are doing quite well. She stated that what is consistent in each patient who is out-living their initial prognosis is that they are young and healthy like Mike.

Well, this is a lot of information, and I hope I have not overwhelmed all of you. Please keep in mind that I am reporting information as I am being educated at these appointments with Mike. I may not always fully comprehend what is being shared by the doctors, and I'm sure I have my own internal filters working to protect my heart and mind. Please feel free to give out my email address to anyone who is interested in being added to the group.

Thanks for all your love and support.

Dan Cano