A lot has happened in the last few months, I really dont know where to start.
Brenda, her sister, nephew and her boyfriend headed to FL for a little bit of rr 3 weeks ago. I was not able to eat on Saturday, it felt like my stomach was full all the time.
On Sunday, I had some appetite meds called into Fl from Cancer Center here. They did not help. Brenda checked me into Cocoa Beach Hospital. DX was dehydration and naseua. I was given fluid and meds. They released me to take the cruise.
On Monday we boarded the boat and left for the Carribbean. All week I was still unable to eat.....my stomach felt it was full all the time. Most everything I ate or drank I threw up.
By Thursday I was a basket case. Friday when we got off the ship, we call Cancer Center and was told to double time it back to NC.
After an 11 hour drive, we pulled into the house and I was rushed to the ER. I was admitted right off the bat. No tests could be done due to my body condition. On Sunday, I had a ct scan, Monday a MRI, xray Tuesday and Wednesday.
With 5 docs on my team, none could pinpoint what was going on. Finally my surgeon and the radiologist got in sync. It seemed my colon was blocked with scan tissue. So I met with the surgeon on Thursday and was scheduled for emergency surgery on Friday the 24th.
Once opened up, several blockages were found and corrected. It was a 5hr surgery about the same as the last one. I was finally sent home last night and now I recovering at home.
I think God for the doc's getting together, that blockage was some of the worst pain I have ever experienced.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Back to the beginning....
I have been having some abdominal pains for the last few months. The Docs have sent me to have my bladder scanned and nothing was seen. They followed that up with a flex sigmoidoscopy. Kinda like a colonoscopy just no sedation or as far inside.
A growth of abnormal skin was seen and a sample was taken. The GI doc said it did not look like cancer.....
Last Friday, we got the results...it is cancer, joy, joy......
So what is the next step? Brenda and I are going to Linberger Cancer center in Chapel-Hill for a consultation there on September 25th. We both feel this is my best bet for long term survival.
I am gonna push for as much of this cancer to be removed from my body. There are other options which we will explore as well. Please remember us as we make decisions that will effect the rest of our lives.
Believe,
Kevin
A growth of abnormal skin was seen and a sample was taken. The GI doc said it did not look like cancer.....
Last Friday, we got the results...it is cancer, joy, joy......
So what is the next step? Brenda and I are going to Linberger Cancer center in Chapel-Hill for a consultation there on September 25th. We both feel this is my best bet for long term survival.
I am gonna push for as much of this cancer to be removed from my body. There are other options which we will explore as well. Please remember us as we make decisions that will effect the rest of our lives.
Believe,
Kevin
Friday, August 29, 2008
Stand up to cancer
I just saw a commercial for a nationally televised show airing next week on ABC, NBC, and CBS. The show is titled "Stand up to cancer". Of course, as a cancer FIGHTER, my ears perked up.
I did some quick reading on their site and was blown away. I know there are many here that have been personally effected by cancer. Have a peek at their mission statement:
"Here we stand, on the verge of unlocking the answers that will finally conquer the devastation that is cancer.
We now understand the very biology that drives cancer. With knowledge gained from the mapping of the human genome, we can now target the genes and pathways that are involved in turning normal cells into cancerous ones. We are on the brink of possessing a toolbox full of new, advanced technologies just waiting to be adapted to benefit patients. Right before us, so close we can almost touch them, are scientific breakthroughs in the prevention, detection, treatment and even reversal of this disease.
For the first time we can envision the possibility of stopping cancer in its tracks. But just when science is on the verge of giving us the breakthroughs that can end cancer, the will and the funding to do so are disappearing from the national agenda and from our collective consciousness.
Cancer takes one person every minute. One life in a moment. They are our brothers, our sisters, our fathers and mothers, our husbands and wives, our best friends, our children, ourselves. Every day in America 1500 people die and yet the means to save them are literally within our reach. To wait any longer for someone else to save our lives and the lives of those we love is unforgivable.
Inspired to act by our own personal experiences with cancer, we recognize that we can no longer rely on the current system alone to give us the breakthroughs we need. So, we are calling on the public to help take matters into our own hands, investing in a revolution that will change the way scientist and clinicians work to understand and treat these diseases. Stand Up To Cancer is more than a rallying cry. It is a galvanizing force created to urgently move cancer research forward.
This is where the end of cancer begins: when we unite in one unstoppable movement and Stand Up To Cancer.
How?
Working with the top experts in cancer research, Stand Up To Cancer is forging a new way to develop breakthroughs that will end cancer. We?re putting together the best and the brightest minds in cancer research ? those on the edge of accomplishment ? investing in their projects and taking the bureaucratic obstacles out of their way. We are building interdisciplinary ?Dream Teams? of scientists, clinicians, technicians and other experts, who will focus on a specific cancer problem. We?ll track their progress in real time, so that everyone who invests can see how their participation is creating real change.
Funds will be administered by the American Association for Cancer Research, the largest scientific organization in the world focusing on every aspect of high-quality, innovative cancer research. Together with their scientific Blue Ribbon Advisory Committee, comprised of world-class scientists across several disciplines and patient advocates, the most promising projects will be identified."
http://www.standuptocancer.org
Me personally, I believe that there WILL be a cure for cancer someday.
Tonight I started a Team on "Stand up to Cancer" in an effort to raise funds to help in this cause. Team name you might ask....
So Fast, So Clean
Did you expect anything else?
I am asking if you have the means, will you join in this battle to find a cure?
here is a direct link if you would like to help:
http://www.standup2cancer.org/mysu2c/team/view/2474
Please do not contribute just because of me, 1 in 3 people will be effected with cancer in their lifetime. Imagine a cure to remove the thought of cancer.....
Thanks for taking time to read this long post.
I did some quick reading on their site and was blown away. I know there are many here that have been personally effected by cancer. Have a peek at their mission statement:
"Here we stand, on the verge of unlocking the answers that will finally conquer the devastation that is cancer.
We now understand the very biology that drives cancer. With knowledge gained from the mapping of the human genome, we can now target the genes and pathways that are involved in turning normal cells into cancerous ones. We are on the brink of possessing a toolbox full of new, advanced technologies just waiting to be adapted to benefit patients. Right before us, so close we can almost touch them, are scientific breakthroughs in the prevention, detection, treatment and even reversal of this disease.
For the first time we can envision the possibility of stopping cancer in its tracks. But just when science is on the verge of giving us the breakthroughs that can end cancer, the will and the funding to do so are disappearing from the national agenda and from our collective consciousness.
Cancer takes one person every minute. One life in a moment. They are our brothers, our sisters, our fathers and mothers, our husbands and wives, our best friends, our children, ourselves. Every day in America 1500 people die and yet the means to save them are literally within our reach. To wait any longer for someone else to save our lives and the lives of those we love is unforgivable.
Inspired to act by our own personal experiences with cancer, we recognize that we can no longer rely on the current system alone to give us the breakthroughs we need. So, we are calling on the public to help take matters into our own hands, investing in a revolution that will change the way scientist and clinicians work to understand and treat these diseases. Stand Up To Cancer is more than a rallying cry. It is a galvanizing force created to urgently move cancer research forward.
This is where the end of cancer begins: when we unite in one unstoppable movement and Stand Up To Cancer.
How?
Working with the top experts in cancer research, Stand Up To Cancer is forging a new way to develop breakthroughs that will end cancer. We?re putting together the best and the brightest minds in cancer research ? those on the edge of accomplishment ? investing in their projects and taking the bureaucratic obstacles out of their way. We are building interdisciplinary ?Dream Teams? of scientists, clinicians, technicians and other experts, who will focus on a specific cancer problem. We?ll track their progress in real time, so that everyone who invests can see how their participation is creating real change.
Funds will be administered by the American Association for Cancer Research, the largest scientific organization in the world focusing on every aspect of high-quality, innovative cancer research. Together with their scientific Blue Ribbon Advisory Committee, comprised of world-class scientists across several disciplines and patient advocates, the most promising projects will be identified."
http://www.standuptocancer.org
Me personally, I believe that there WILL be a cure for cancer someday.
Tonight I started a Team on "Stand up to Cancer" in an effort to raise funds to help in this cause. Team name you might ask....
So Fast, So Clean
Did you expect anything else?
I am asking if you have the means, will you join in this battle to find a cure?
here is a direct link if you would like to help:
http://www.standup2cancer.org/mysu2c/team/view/2474
Please do not contribute just because of me, 1 in 3 people will be effected with cancer in their lifetime. Imagine a cure to remove the thought of cancer.....
Thanks for taking time to read this long post.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Happy Anniversary to us!!!
Yesterday Brenda and I celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary. I have no idea how she has put up with me for that long....lol. Well actually I do...the Grace of God.
This year was a bit different than last years anniversary......
Last year I was preparing for my 1st every colonoscopy. The very next day.....our lives were changed forever. As most recall, two tumors were discovered in my descending colon. Surgery was scheduled and the whirlwind began.
One year ago today, about maybe 8pm...Brenda and I bowed on our knees and layed this issue at Jesus' feet......immediately, His response to me...."I WILL take care of you son....".....
Fast forward to today and that response is STILL holding true. My cancer is stable and I am living a relatively normal life. Thank you Jesus!!!!!
And while I am at it...I have been in various levels of pain since my crash on the race track in November. My left lower abdomen/groin area sometimes feels like I have a pulled muscle... On my last CT, a thickening of my left bladder wall was noted. I was sent to a urologist to have a specialist have a gander.
After a brief chat, and him telling me that cancer can "hide" in the bladder....he suggested a scope to see exactly what was going on, if anything. I am so thankful that my bladder inside is normal, no sign of cancer. More answered prayer..... He believes my pain is associated with scarring of my colon and the thickning on the wall is due to the scarring....
I hope all my fellow fighters and Survivors are doing well. Thanks for stopping by and stay in touch!
Believe,
Kevin
This year was a bit different than last years anniversary......
Last year I was preparing for my 1st every colonoscopy. The very next day.....our lives were changed forever. As most recall, two tumors were discovered in my descending colon. Surgery was scheduled and the whirlwind began.
One year ago today, about maybe 8pm...Brenda and I bowed on our knees and layed this issue at Jesus' feet......immediately, His response to me...."I WILL take care of you son....".....
Fast forward to today and that response is STILL holding true. My cancer is stable and I am living a relatively normal life. Thank you Jesus!!!!!
And while I am at it...I have been in various levels of pain since my crash on the race track in November. My left lower abdomen/groin area sometimes feels like I have a pulled muscle... On my last CT, a thickening of my left bladder wall was noted. I was sent to a urologist to have a specialist have a gander.
After a brief chat, and him telling me that cancer can "hide" in the bladder....he suggested a scope to see exactly what was going on, if anything. I am so thankful that my bladder inside is normal, no sign of cancer. More answered prayer..... He believes my pain is associated with scarring of my colon and the thickning on the wall is due to the scarring....
I hope all my fellow fighters and Survivors are doing well. Thanks for stopping by and stay in touch!
Believe,
Kevin
Monday, July 28, 2008
Stable!
As most know, I had a CT scan last week. Originally scheduled for the 25th but moved up until the 23rd. The results you may ask....one word......STABLE!!!!! Thanks be to God.
Now you ask, what does stable mean. Well my liver has 5 spots(more on this later), 3 stayed the same and 2 shrank just a bit. The nodules in my lungs also shrank just a tiny bit. The tech that read my scan said this cancer is stable.
Back to the 5 spots.....in September 2007, I had my 1st PET scan. Just a refresher...a PET uses radioactive sugar to note activity in cancer tumors. On this 1st PET test all 5 spots showed activity. At the Cancer center, we compared the PET from September to my last PET in May. Only 2 spots are showing activity now. The other three are still there but not active. Yet more good news.
I know we are still in for the long haul. I am still standing strong battling this cancer with strength from Jesus. Please continue to remember many of my friends that are effected with cancer.
Thanks for dropping by,
Believe,
Kevin
Now you ask, what does stable mean. Well my liver has 5 spots(more on this later), 3 stayed the same and 2 shrank just a bit. The nodules in my lungs also shrank just a tiny bit. The tech that read my scan said this cancer is stable.
Back to the 5 spots.....in September 2007, I had my 1st PET scan. Just a refresher...a PET uses radioactive sugar to note activity in cancer tumors. On this 1st PET test all 5 spots showed activity. At the Cancer center, we compared the PET from September to my last PET in May. Only 2 spots are showing activity now. The other three are still there but not active. Yet more good news.
I know we are still in for the long haul. I am still standing strong battling this cancer with strength from Jesus. Please continue to remember many of my friends that are effected with cancer.
Thanks for dropping by,
Believe,
Kevin
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Just more info...
I hope all my family and friends are doing well, thanks for stopping by. Everything is well in Casa de Vman. Chemo is still taking its toll on my energy, mind and body every 2 weeks, but God is still allowing me to do many things most cancer SURVIVORS do not do.
You may have noticed I used the word "survivor". I am already a survivor. I BELIVE in my heart God has more work for me to do on this Earth. I am just, no wait....WE are just going through a little trial....please continue to remember Brenda and I as we are battling this disease on a day to day basis.
There are some awesome new chemo drugs coming down the pike in the next few years. please pray for their continued success in trials and a speedy FDA approval. One that is showing a 95% stabilization rate.....Some great news for CC!!!!!!
Lots of prayer requests:
I just found out tonight my friend Michele has 2 spots that showed up on her brain. I know this is a shock after being NED for nearly 6 months.... The doc DOES NOT believe it is cancer....but still a serious condition....
Patti at our church is facing the start of her colon cancer journey, she was just DX last week.
Continue to remember The Clifton Family with the loss of Chad. I still miss you more than words can say. I know you would not trade what you are experiencing now for nothing...... I just know you are watching over me and I hear your voice somedays as clearly as your are right beside me.
There are many people at the Colon Club needing prayer. Some dealing with bad news, deaths of loved ones, bad scans, chemo not working, etc.
Remember me next Friday, I will be having a CT scan to see the progress of the new chemo. Please pray for total destruction of the nodules in my lungs so I can be cleared for a liver resection.
Before I end this post....can I ask you all a question....
Do you know Jesus as your personal Savior? If not...dont wait...none of us are guaranteed anudder day on this Earth.
Believe,
Kevin
You may have noticed I used the word "survivor". I am already a survivor. I BELIVE in my heart God has more work for me to do on this Earth. I am just, no wait....WE are just going through a little trial....please continue to remember Brenda and I as we are battling this disease on a day to day basis.
There are some awesome new chemo drugs coming down the pike in the next few years. please pray for their continued success in trials and a speedy FDA approval. One that is showing a 95% stabilization rate.....Some great news for CC!!!!!!
Lots of prayer requests:
I just found out tonight my friend Michele has 2 spots that showed up on her brain. I know this is a shock after being NED for nearly 6 months.... The doc DOES NOT believe it is cancer....but still a serious condition....
Patti at our church is facing the start of her colon cancer journey, she was just DX last week.
Continue to remember The Clifton Family with the loss of Chad. I still miss you more than words can say. I know you would not trade what you are experiencing now for nothing...... I just know you are watching over me and I hear your voice somedays as clearly as your are right beside me.
There are many people at the Colon Club needing prayer. Some dealing with bad news, deaths of loved ones, bad scans, chemo not working, etc.
Remember me next Friday, I will be having a CT scan to see the progress of the new chemo. Please pray for total destruction of the nodules in my lungs so I can be cleared for a liver resection.
Before I end this post....can I ask you all a question....
Do you know Jesus as your personal Savior? If not...dont wait...none of us are guaranteed anudder day on this Earth.
Believe,
Kevin
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Just a little update.....
1st I wanted to thank God for allowing Brenda and I to make the trip to Atlanta for Chad's funeral. Over 75 of my extended family at the R1-Forum and a couple of other boards made the journey as well. We spent Saturday night at Rob and Leigh's house with most of them. Everyone seemed to share many stories. What a moving night talking about "Chad Fun". I still miss you Chad....deeply. I know you are at Jesus' side. My brother in law, Mike was taken from us in nearly the same way. Mike taught me so much about riding and Chad picked up where Mike left off.....I wonder what those 2 are chatting about? So Fast, So Clean for life!!!!!!!
I am dealing with the death of my closest friend by thinking about ALL the good times we have shared over the years. The hardest thing, we talked several times each day and there are times I pick up my cell to give him a call.....
If you have time, go to www.youtube.com. Punch in Chad Clifton and there are a few tribute videos that have been made. I shed many tears everytime I watch them.....
The new chemo is going well and I seem to be tolerating it better that FOLFOX. I have my next scheduled scan on the 25th. Please remember us both in prayer. I am ready for massive improvements in my DX.
Thanks for stopping by.....
Believe,
Kevin
I am dealing with the death of my closest friend by thinking about ALL the good times we have shared over the years. The hardest thing, we talked several times each day and there are times I pick up my cell to give him a call.....
If you have time, go to www.youtube.com. Punch in Chad Clifton and there are a few tribute videos that have been made. I shed many tears everytime I watch them.....
The new chemo is going well and I seem to be tolerating it better that FOLFOX. I have my next scheduled scan on the 25th. Please remember us both in prayer. I am ready for massive improvements in my DX.
Thanks for stopping by.....
Believe,
Kevin
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