MARCH 2026 Update -
PLEASE NOTE WE HAVE UPDATED THE FUNDRAISING REQUEST
Since our last update, we learned that Brukinsa (zanubrutinib) was no longer effectively controlling Mieke’s lymphoma. We began working closely with specialists at City of Hope to explore next steps and were connected with physicians conducting research on emerging therapies for patients with CNS B-cell lymphoma that has not responded to prior treatments.
One of the most promising options available was a therapy called glofitamab. This drug works by binding T-cells (the immune system’s attack cells) directly to B-cells and activating the T-cells to destroy them. Because Mieke’s cancer originates from B-cells, the goal of this treatment is essentially to eliminate the malignant B-cells along with normal B-cells that may be present.
This type of immune activation can produce a very strong inflammatory response, so the treatment is administered using a step-up dosing approach that gradually increases the dose before reaching the full therapeutic level.
Mieke handled the treatment remarkably well. The first few nights were uncomfortable and she experienced fever during the initial dose escalation, which is common with this type of therapy. But after that early phase she tolerated the infusions very well, and the treatments themselves have gone smoothly.
Unfortunately, about six weeks ago Mieke began dealing with a series of viral infections. She first contracted parainfluenza, followed by rhinovirus/enterovirus, and most recently influenza A. Because the treatment suppresses normal B-cells and affects immune function, the doctors decided it was safest to pause further glofitamab infusions until the infections were under control.
For several weeks Mieke was inpatient at City of Hope while the medical team managed these infections and monitored her recovery. Thankfully, the care she received there helped stabilize things, and we began to see steady improvement.
Mieke has now been discharged and is back home, where we will continue doing everything we can to support her recovery.
When Mieke was previously recovering at home, supporting her care required services such as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), medical transportation, specialized medications, and frequent follow-up visits. Even during that earlier period, these necessary services cost our family approximately $5,000 or more each month. As she transitions home again and similar care becomes necessary, these ongoing expenses are placing real financial strain on our family.
We remain incredibly grateful to the physicians and staff at City of Hope and to everyone who continues to keep Mieke in their thoughts and prayers. Your support continues to mean so much to our family.
— The Inouye Family
Many thanks for your support and prayers!
Dear friends, family, and compassionate souls,
We come to you with heavy hearts and unwavering hope. Our beloved Mieke Inouye, mother, wife, grandmother, sister and friend, is courageously battling Central Nervous System Lymphoma—a fight that tests not only her strength but also the resilience of her entire family. From the initial diagnosis of follicular lymphoma to the recent challenges, Mieke's unwavering spirit has inspired us all.
Mieke's journey has been embraced with love and relentless dedication from her husband, children, and extended family—each playing an invaluable role in her care and comfort. As the battle continues, the financial strain of providing round-the-clock care away from home has added another layer of difficulty to an already arduous situation. While we are grateful that her medical bills are covered by insurance, the cost of being away from home and ensuring Mieke receives the best possible care has posed a significant burden on the family, amounting to over $1,000 per week.
It is with great humility and love that we reach out to our community for support. Our goal is to raise $20,000—a sum that, although only a fraction of the overall expenses, we hope will alleviate the immediate financial strain and provide Mieke and her family with the peace of mind they truly deserve. Every dollar raised beyond our goal will continue to support Mieke's care and enable her family to be by her side throughout this critical time.
We firmly believe that Mieke is not alone in this battle; she has each and every one of us, and that includes you. Your support, whether through a donation, a heartfelt message, or by simply sharing this fundraiser, holds immeasurable significance to us. As we stand united with Mieke and her family, we extend our deepest gratitude to each of you. Your unwavering compassion and support are a source of immeasurable strength during this profoundly challenging time.
Thank you for wrapping Mieke and her family in your love and for being a pillar of hope amidst the storm.
With heartfelt appreciation and boundless gratitude,
Liesbet Bickett, on behalf of the Inouye Family
