Feb 7 / 8 2011 will be remembered as the days which forever changed the lives of Teresa, myself and all those close to us. While not feeling well since December 25th, what the doctors discovered was wrong was not on my list of possibilities or suspected ailments. The shocking news confirmed with a CT Scan and a biopsy is Advanced Stage 4 Rectal Cancer. Thank fully no real prognosis, just "you have it and it maybe treated, 5 years ago we would have said nothing we can do, but with advances in Chemotherapy in the last 5 years there is hope."
Time to go home from the hospital and digest this diagnosis. (4 blocks from the hospital)
By the time we arrived home Teresa and I were well underway going through the stages of Grief. The final stage, acceptance would only be a couple of hours later. Some tears, big bear hugs and a few laughs got us there quickly. Together we have been faced with a challenge, we accept this challenge and will do whatever it takes to overcome the challenge. The only thoughts we have now are:
when can we start treatment? and what do we need to do to prepare?
Friday Feb 11 we met with the Oncologist at the Allen Blair Cancer Center here in Regina. During this meeting we were advised of the Treatment. I really like the shortform name: Folfiri (full-fuery) which includes the FU 5 treatment. (great names - agree?) There will be other possible treatments as well Avastin and we are inquiring about Eloxatin. http://www.avastin.com/avastin/patient/crc/avastin/benefits/
The additional treatments have been noted to have outstanding effects when combined with the above noted treatments and fighting this form of Cancer.
Now we wait for a date to have a Port surgically implanted for IV access. This will replace the need to poke my arm every 2 weeks for treatment. Once this is done then treatments can begin. Treatments will occur every 2 weeks for 4-6 months to start, after 3 months a CT Scan will provide progress updates. Each treatment will consist of 3 appts. 1 for Blood work, 1 day (6-8 hours) receiving treatment and then a 3rd appt to remove a take home IV bottle which is a 48 hour treatment.
While waiting though - the preparation begins. Need to ensure I keep a strong immune system, energy levels high with proper food intact and a great frame of mind. My upcoming posts will bring you how I go about this task and stories which accompany this journey through our new chapter in life.
Look out Big C - here comes the stubborn Frenchman Big JTee.
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Jason, I wanted to say thanks for sharing information. I know that it must be incredibly difficult to face this challenge. I agree the names are great; the best part is seeing your sense of hunour and determination shine through. You, Theresa, and those who care for you will be in my thoughts and prayers. Deb Gill
ReplyDeleteKat passed me the news. You and Theresa are in our prayers. While tragic, I am glad to see that you maintain your spirits and quick wit. You know you have a great support unit in the family. We will be following your journey close, (even if we are far away).
ReplyDeleteRon McClain
You brought a tear to my eye and smile to my face. What an excellent output to vent and and share your frustrations and milestones. You are a strong man and with Teresa by your side, you will conquer this Jay!
ReplyDeletexo Teresa and Rich
Wish I can go through the stages as fast as you two...still in a couple stages...mostly anger...but have accepted it as I cannot change it. I wish I was closer to be a pain in your asses...thank you for sharing this you guys...though miles are between us, it does not feel like it.. <3
ReplyDeleteJay, another fabulous idea! Your always thinking outside the box. What a fantastic way for you and Teresa to share your thoughts and progress with everyone.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear that you are in good spirits Jay and with Teresa and the support of family and friends your in good hands.
I want both of you to know that I love you guys very much and that your in my thoughts and prayers.
See you guys soon!
cuz,
ReplyDeletethanks for blogging-it will help keep the news honest and true
the first thing i thought when i find out the news is you will survive! why? cause you are strong and family... this family has been through so much in life that this is just a blip in the spectrum of life... we know you will have your up and down days, the days you beg GOD to change things, the "why me?" , but you are strong, and you have this fantastic wife standing there beside you!!!
as grandpa always said i would be fine after my accident(even though i didn't believe him at the time) and he was right! and he is looking down and saying to you that to you....
i will add you to my prayer list LOL, i love you
kat