Jennifer Mathews: Lowell and Anna Piper have eaten plenty of hospital food over the last three years. They feel fortunate to be able to eat these meals together. Anna had a brain tumor, then cancer cells infiltrated the lining of her spinal cord.
Anna Piper: The only way I can describe it is tough, because I've really had some rough spots, but I'm doing better.
Jennifer Mathews: Anna was given only weeks to live. That was more than two years ago. Doctors say she's alive because of the drug, DepoCyt.
Dr. Surasak Phuphanich: This case is exceptional she is doing well.
Jennifer Mathews: Dr. Surasak Phuphanich who says the drug is injected into the spinal fluid through a reservoir in the head.
Compared to standard treatment, DepoCyt requires fewer treatments and offers a better survival rate and improved quality of life. One study showed 41% of patients responded to DepoCyt, compared to 6% on the standard treatment.
Dr. Surasak Phuphanich: I don't think a homerun for every patient, but at least it keeps an opportunity for some patient.
Jennifer Mathews: Anna has a lot to live for. She and Lowell were married in December, 1953. So this year they will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
Lowell Piper: We're just looking forward to a few more years.
Jennifer Mathews: This is Jennifer Mathews reporting.
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