We have made the decision to withdraw from the MDA clinical trial. The protocol for the study requires a 15 day waiting period before starting/resuming the trial after a minor surgery/procedure. Maggie’s stent placement was classified as a minor surgery. We are not comfortable waiting this long to start treatment for several reasons. Maggie’s CEA (tumor marker) level is rising, and she would not be getting all three study drugs until the first day of cycle 2 (day 29 once the trial starts). We decided to resume standard chemotherapy at Batson. Once we get a handle on tumor growth/spread, we can return to UAB or MDA to consider further trial options. I’ve been in contact today with all clinics involved to alert Dr. Collier (Batson oncologist) of our desire and to have all recent records sent to him related to tests and treatments. We’ll meet with Collier Friday morning at 10:00 to discuss our options and decide a course of action.
We did not make the decision lightly and are unanimous in our opinions that this is the right direction given the circumstances. Maggie is having persistent back discomfort. Given the complications we could face in the days ahead, we all feel more comfortable having her care centered at Batson. We have high regard for all doctors involved in Maggie’s treatment spread across three of the finest medical centers. But when it comes to clinical/hospital care, Batson is second to none and first in our hearts. Maggie is most comfortable there – and that’s the most important consideration.
We are not so much disappointed in missing out on this clinical trial as we are determined to continue pursuing the best for Maggie. We trust in a God who never leads us where He is not already waiting. We walk with certainty and faith in His unfailing love. Yes, I ask why, still. No, I hear no answer. But I do know with everything within me He loves her more who loved her first. And that is enough.
As of now, we’re going to Orlando with OnePraise. Maggie has made a special prayer request for strength and a lessening of discomfort. We’ll be riding on a charter bus – a ten hour drive. She needs a better appetite, good energy level and no back pain to endure the ride, enjoy the trip, and contribute to the mission work. Thank you for prayers for her condition.
Once we have a treatment plan, I’ll let you know. We’ll keep you updated on her status for the trip.
Goodnight.
Praying for a great trip Maggie with lots of energy, no back pain, and a big appetite! Praying for great weather also ?☀️
Praying that you have no pain, and have a great mission trip Maggie. We love y’all, and will see y’all soon.
Prayers for safe trip and comfort for Maggie on this long trip.
Oh, sweet friends! I am sorry the plan did not work out! Melissa and Phil, Maggie is So incredibly blessed ot have you two advocating on her behalf and SO SO involved in every detail of her care! I cannot imagine how exhausting it is, but we will do anything for our children, won’t we? Just like our Father does for us! Our love for our children exceeds our love for our own bodies and most anything in the world!!! I am praying, Maggie, for your appetite, your energy level and NO back pain so you can do the thing you love most….Praising our Savior and Serving Him. I cannot begin to tell you what a hero of the faith you are to me!!
PrAyers continue for God to meet you in every decision and treatment. Love and hugs are sent too you as well.
God bless you all! I’m sure it has been one difficult decision after another to finally settle on an answer. Prayers for you all on that long trip. I admire her strong will to go anyway, she will be a HUGE inspiration to the people there. If you have a chance to download a really great little book “The Red Sea Rules” by Robert Morgan, you may find it helpful in these trying times. Many prayers and uplifting thoughts be sent your way!
Prayers for strength for the Orlando mission trip along w freedom from pain. As always, our Hod is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.
Love y’all!
So thankful for you and Phil’s wisdom and faith. I know this decision has been prayed through and examined from every angle. You know I’m not a patient person and I am all about getting things cranked up to attack those cancer cells. You are prayed for and loved every day…looking forward to having you closer to home and Maggie receiving the specialcare Batson provides.
I continue to pray for Maggie and her loving family. I will pray for Maggie as she embarks on serving our God on the mission trip as well as your meeting on Friday at Batson. I know that your decisions came after much prayer and pleading for mercy. Rest in the comfort of your decision.
She is in my prayers! Believing God is going to give Maggie a comfortable trip and take all care and concern about her making this trip. Love and prayers from Alli’s grandma.
Be safe on your mission trip, and eat up, girl!!! Praying for no pain and a big appetite! Hugs to all❤️
I continue to pray for Maggie, for the family, the doctors, and all involved in her treatment. The road you are all traveling is not easy, but it is wonderful that you have God’s hand to hold on to as you travel.
Our hearts & prayers go out to Maggie, so that she can manage comfortably on the mission trip and bless others as speads the Goid News!! God will honor your desires and use you in a way only you can fulfill. I will pray specifically for you to be able to eat and gain strength . You are an inspiration and your family is there for you with love beyond measure. Continue fighting in Gods power and his triumph will overcome.
Prayers for comfort and strength!
Praying for strength, no discomfort and healing! Love to you all!
I’m praying for y’all and especially for Mags to be pain free, to eat up and get ready to share her heart on mission! She’s got an amazing spirit to share and lead others to the source…the One True God! Love you all!
I know you will feel like you are “home” when you get to Batson. I really feel like it is the right decision. God got you to that point, I know He has a reason. I am praying that Maggie will do good on the trip and not have so much pain. I love you all so much!
Praying for Maggie’s comfort and her strength so that she has a great trip to Orlando.❤️??
Praying
The women of First Jackson are still holding the ropes of prayer for Maggie, and your family. Love you!
Praying and will continue to Pray to Our Lord and Savior. His Word is a River, His Holy Spirit is with us and His Son died that we might live. Praise Honor and Glory be to Him the Most High, He is who I Pray to for Healing, Strength, Mercy, Rest, Confidence, Grace and Peace in this Blessed Child Maggie Hanberry and Beautiful Hanberry Family…. Amen
Praying for Maggie and the two of you as you care for her.
Praying for discomfort to go away, energy, appetite, and a wonderful trip.
Praying for comfort and healing.
Praying still for you all and for comfort in the trip. Praying for direction in treatment as well.
“He loves her more who loved her first. And that is enough.”
I LOVE THAT! I love your attitude, faith, hope and I just LOVE you all and have never met you. I LOVE the Christ I read in you! Continuing in prayer for the trip, the troop and further treatment plans and care teams. ?????????
Our God has Maggie in the palm of his hand..my prayer is for comfort and no pain..
Every step of this journey has been heavy.
We are praying that the burdens will be lifted
That you will all feel ease rest and peace
Maggie, you are always in my prayers. Praying for peace and comfort on the ride to Orlando and activities associated with mission trip. Keep the faith my friends, the great I AM is leading and guiding the master plan.
Praying from WA for Maggie’s appetite, stamina, relief from pain, and discernment in the coming days. Special prayers for Maggie’s parents from parents who were in hospital with oldest daughter 12 years ago this week facing insurmountable odds. She lived and gives God the glory but we hold our breath with each monthly lab visit. Each day is a gift and we are reminded not to borrow trouble. “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” Matthew 6:34 MSG
Enjoy the journey – even the 10 hour bus ride;)
I feel your peace and knowledge that God is in control. Obviously the MDA Clinical Trial wasn’t for Maggie. Romans 8:28. Praying that Maggie has a wonderful trip to Orlando and that all goes smoothly.
“We trust in.a God who never leads us where he is not already waiting.” That really hits home and brought tears to my eyes. Of course, continued prayers for healing and peace and added prayers for comfort and strength for her trip.
I Pray for yourOngoing Strength and Courage Maggie!!!
Praying for extra strength and a decrease in discomfort. Your courage is an inspiration to many.
So proud that she can serve others in the midst of her own pain. God WILL BLESS that! Maggie have a great time. Prayers for relief, comfort and enjoyment on the trip. Continued strength and discernment from the Father through you and Phil!
Blessings
Karen Edwards
Praying for y’all as y’all continue to touch countless lives!!! You are so right…..He is already where you are going!!! Much love and many prayers!!!