Statement of the guardian ad litem in the Parker Jensen case

STATEMENT OF THE GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN THE PARKER JENSEN CASE

SEPTEMBER 26, 2003

INTRODUCTION

Amidst all of the controversy surrounding the Jensen case, there is one very important issue that is being lost in the fracas. At its center, this case is about one thing: A child's life is at stake. All of the other issues (parents vs. DCFS, alternative medicine vs. traditional medicine, neglect vs. abuse, etc.) although important issues for debate, are secondary to the importance of a child's life.

On September 25, 2003, Dr. (Martin)Johnston received the results of a chromosome test of Parker's tumor specimen. This test has been described as the definitive test for Ewing's sarcoma. This test is positive for a t(11;22) chromosomal translocation which is an absolute confirmation of the diagnosis of Ewing's sarcoma.

We can only imagine how this news will impact Parker and the Jensen family and all of our hearts go out to them today.

Point I. Dr. Johnston has not declared that Parker is cancer free. The CT scan and the bone scan do not reveal any visible areas of obvious tumor. However, there is an abnormality on the MRI which needs to be investigated by an oral surgeon. Dr. Johnston also requested a bone marrow test because in approximately 5% of cases the bone marrow can be the only site of demonstrable metastasis. Also, virtually all patients with Ewing's sarcoma will have undetectable microscopic metastases.

Point II. Dr. Johnston's recommendation for treatment is 14 cycles of multi-agent chemotherapy over a period of 11 months. The recommendation for chemotherapy is not made without due consideration or empathy for the Jensen family. Dr. Johnston is familiar with the effects of chemotherapy, not only in his professional capacity, by in a very personal sense because his own son was diagnosed with leukemia and underwent chemotherapy and radiation for three years. He is alive and well today.

Point III. It is important to point out that if Parker is treated with chemotherapy before the cancer spreads, the cure rate is greater that 70%. However, if the Jensens delay treatment until the cancer spreads, the cure rate decreases significantly. Additionally, once the cancer spreads, the treatment is much more aggressive, and could include bone Marrow transplants and radiation treatment.

CASE HISTORY

1. Dr. Martin Johnston, a pediatric oncologist at St. Luke's Medical Center in Boise, Idaho, was selected by Mr. and Mrs. Jensen to conduct an independent -medical evaluation of Parker's diagnosis and make a recommendation about treatment.

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