So here is a first effort, let's see what comes of it.
Most of you have been in the loop, some of you may not have been. In Mid-November we had the misfortune to receive a diagnosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer. I had been having some difficulty swallowing starting in late August, let it go for 7-8 weeks and then a phone call with my cousin Bev had me going in to see the doctor. The diagnosis came quickly and thunderously.
After interviewing an Oncologist and a surgeon who left us rather disspirited, we met with Dr. Gold at the Swedish Cancer Institute here in Seattle. He gave us a committed sense of mission and a hopefulness that drew us to him immediately. I started five weeks of aggressive radiation and chemotherapy on Dec. 11th and wrapped it up on Jan. 17th. A PET scan on Jan 9th showed significant shrinkage and, just as important, no new occurrences. We had three weeks to rest and heal from the treatment, (including a week to Whistler, British Columbia for some snowboarding, ski school for the boys, swimming and lots of food.)
As successful as the treatments were, the next step is surgery. Monday the 12th, we go in for a significant surgery. (Are there any insignificant ones?) Doc says 3-4 days in ICU, probably 2 weeks at the hospital, then some changes in lifestyle to get used to.
Check back for the latest if you would like to, send us any e-mail addresses to add to this list, post something, send us a link, or just ignore the whole thing and go outside to enjoy the sun.
14 comments:
And all the strength I can send (and everyone else I know) is heading your way.
Now, about that picture... Where's Shannon? Oh, she's the leg's behind Molly-girl. Methinks you need to get one of those professional pictures up right away.
Dave:
We have only spoken a few times, but you know that all the strength I have is being sent your way. I have been there and I know how hard it is, but also how good it is coming out on the other side. All will be well. Blessings.
Paul.
As tough as the road has been it's great news that there is shrinkage (of the tumor, I mean!) and no new occurances! Now, for the tough part ... surgery. Doesn't sound like a cake walk, but you've leaned your shoulder into the tough task ahead and will struggle through it. The 5 of you are never far from our thoughts and we send all our prayers and best wishes your way. My PET scan came back clear again so there is proof that you can survive stage 4 cancer. I did a less formal version of your blog because I found that after the ravages of chemo left me with little energy to talk to even my closest friends, Jeff & Jake, but I had a lot to say and be thankful for. The computer gave me the ability to keep everyone up to date and allow me the rest I needed. Take the rest you need and know that we're in the corner with you.
All our best to you, Shannon & the kids ... love ya buddy.
Cryss., Jeff & Jake
Dave,
All the best to you and your family and our thoughts are with you, both tomorrow and throughout the long days of recovery that will follow. Thanks for sharing what is a very harrowing experience with everyone and we're with you all the way.
I expect a full recovery because we have a great group of returning soccer players to whip into shape this fall and they need you out there on the pitch to inspire and motivate them.
Peace and Blessings to McGeoy's
The Bates Family
Hi bud Stand firm, walk tall and know we are all on this journey with you every step of the way! We love you.
Your family north of the 49th and your brother from a different mother :O)
Dave & Shan - I know that today is a big apex in your life. I've thought of nothing but you today and am sending every positive vibe I can across the US to you. You know Darran and I are behind you 100% and will help any way we can while your family is going through this. Just remember... Short term pain for long term gain. Hugs and kisses to you and your entire family. I know they are all there with you.
We'll be out in either April or July. Looking forward to having a cold one with you then. Love you tons!
Cindy & Family
Dave,
Prayer warriors have been lifting you and your family up since the first day you told me about the cancer. How excellent it is that the treatment is working.
Rick
We are with you today, sending love and good energy and healing vibes to help nudge you even a little bit on your journey back to health. We are with you tomorrow. We are with you the day after, and,and, and... Much love and very gentle hugs. Duane and Navina
Dave:
Have you read Lance Armstrong's books? His advice is to learn all you can learn about cancer, work with the doctors to make a plan, and put every ounce of energy you can into fighting like hell (and through hell!) I'm praying for you, and pledge to play some sand doubles volleyball with you at Alki!
-Bob Bergeron
Thank you so much for creating the blog. I know how many people want to stay up to date with your progress, but appreciate the time you need with your family now.
We've been thinking of you a lot since November, but especially today. Sending all of the positive energy we can your way.
Let us know if there is anything at all we can do to help with your journey to recovery.
We look forward to the next bowling night or other fun activity.
Love, Kelly, Tracy and Declan
Dave & Shannon and my Little (Big! Big!) Cousins:
Thank you for this to keep us updated. Thank you also for your pictures, they represent everything you have that will help you through: family, love, strength, and unity. My best wishes are with you for a successful surgery and recovery.
Tristan
Dave lets hope that the shrinkage was kept to the tumor. Our prayers are with you today and in the coming weeks of recovery. We send out love and all our strength to you. As Courtney says, "we love you big much"! We're here whenever you need us, for any reason...Much love to you brother Dave
I have no doubts that you will fly thru this. Your strength absolutly inspires me. I cant help but to feel agony for what you have been through,will go thru... Nobody is suppose to hurt my siblings. Yet, I cant help but to acknowledge all the love and support that is here for you, which is a testiment to you. Ill see you this week. Love you, and Shannon, and the whole family just for being who we are. I just wish I didnt live so far away.
Wow. Dave, I first became aware of this when I heard from your mom at Christmas time. What horrible news. I wish you and the family all the possible strength in the world pulling through this.
Thank you so much for creating and maintaining this blog to keep everyone posted. Staying tuned...
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