I hope my family and friends are ready for Christmas. We are both ready. And we both are so thankful for that.
I was not expected to make it to this Christmas and that is another miracle. Thank you Jesus for giving me another year. My cancer is still stable and my treatment has been changed to Erbitux every Friday. The drip is shorter just about an hour. The main side effect is acne and a rash. Little did I know, I was gonna visit puberty again, lol....
My fellow fighters, I still pray for you everyday. Keep up the fight!
Believe,
Kevin
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Home again from anudder 5 day stay in the hospital
I was checked back into the hospital last Saturday with severe eating issues and placed back on TPN, basically a liquid food that provided all the "stuff" my body needs to survive.
During our stay we got a 2nd opinion on my stoma and the Doc actually examined it, imagine the concept. He felt it does not need to be redone at this time....answered prayer!!!!!!!
My wound and ostomy site are healing very well to the surprise of my Onc. He still feels there is cancer in my abdomen. While I am recovering we are going to Wake Forrest to explore HIPEC.
Please contine to remember us in prayer as we continue to fight this beast.
Believe,
Kevin
During our stay we got a 2nd opinion on my stoma and the Doc actually examined it, imagine the concept. He felt it does not need to be redone at this time....answered prayer!!!!!!!
My wound and ostomy site are healing very well to the surprise of my Onc. He still feels there is cancer in my abdomen. While I am recovering we are going to Wake Forrest to explore HIPEC.
Please contine to remember us in prayer as we continue to fight this beast.
Believe,
Kevin
Thursday, November 6, 2008
More prayers please....
I went to see the wound therapy doc today for the infection in my abdomen that developed while still in the hospital. The orginal tunnel, thought to be 3cm is now 18 cm deep. I have the funk growing again. A culture was taken today to see what meds I need to be on.
Issue number 2, I am having so ostomy issues. My stoma has pulled away from the skin. I may be facing anudder surgery in the next few days to correct the issue.
Believe,
Kevin
Issue number 2, I am having so ostomy issues. My stoma has pulled away from the skin. I may be facing anudder surgery in the next few days to correct the issue.
Believe,
Kevin
Saturday, November 1, 2008
A new update
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.
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.
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
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Godspeed my friend....
With a heavy heart, I cant believe what I have to type.....
Today Chad Clifton went home to be with the Lord. He never recovered from a heart attack and stroke he suffered last night.
People have asked me how I learned to ride the curves so well. The answer is Chad. I have been working with him for several years at various tracks on the East Coast. He taught me so much in such a short time span.......
The skills you have taught me I promise will be shared with as many folks as I can. You will be missed deeply, but what you have blessed me with will live on......
I have my memories of many phone calls, visits, track sessions, plus the skills he taught me are priceless.
A tribute to you Chad. You may have beat me home, but I will see you again someday.
I have a chemo treatment this Friday and I have been asked to be a pallbearer. Brenda and I will be making the trip to the Atlanta area while on chemo.
Today Chad Clifton went home to be with the Lord. He never recovered from a heart attack and stroke he suffered last night.
People have asked me how I learned to ride the curves so well. The answer is Chad. I have been working with him for several years at various tracks on the East Coast. He taught me so much in such a short time span.......
The skills you have taught me I promise will be shared with as many folks as I can. You will be missed deeply, but what you have blessed me with will live on......
I have my memories of many phone calls, visits, track sessions, plus the skills he taught me are priceless.
A tribute to you Chad. You may have beat me home, but I will see you again someday.
I have a chemo treatment this Friday and I have been asked to be a pallbearer. Brenda and I will be making the trip to the Atlanta area while on chemo.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
This one is not about me.....
I some to you my internet friends and family with a special request. My best friend broke his back last Wednesday in a motorcycle accident. Chad Clifton has mentored me in my motorcycle track days and really has proved himself as a TRUE friend.
Chad had surgery to repair 6 vertebra on Saturday. He has complete use of his legs which is a miracle and answered prayer.
Yesterday when the Doc's got him up to walk, he said he was not feeling well. By the time he layed back down, he was turning blue. He coded and was rushed into surgery. Several blood clots were found in his lungs and legs.
Chad was stable but still in critical condition most of the day. I just received a call that he has taken a turn for the worse. Please, I beg...pray for my friend.....
I am a complete basket case right now.......
Believe,
Kevin
Chad had surgery to repair 6 vertebra on Saturday. He has complete use of his legs which is a miracle and answered prayer.
Yesterday when the Doc's got him up to walk, he said he was not feeling well. By the time he layed back down, he was turning blue. He coded and was rushed into surgery. Several blood clots were found in his lungs and legs.
Chad was stable but still in critical condition most of the day. I just received a call that he has taken a turn for the worse. Please, I beg...pray for my friend.....
I am a complete basket case right now.......
Believe,
Kevin
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Whirlwind......
1st off, let me say...so sorry between updates. It has been a rather interesting few weeks in Casa de Vman.........
I completed 12 cycles of Folfox with Avastin mixed in for 8 cycles. My fingers and feet have finally succumbed to one of the bad side effects of one of the drugs...they are numb just about all day. It can be difficult to stand, walk, pick up items, even type... This can be permanent...I hope and pray that it will pass...
Most of you hooligans know I have played softball most of my life. I started sometime ,around 12 or 13, something like that. I have had my heyday, being part of a team that finished 6th in the world in Orlando in 1998, many HR's, game winning plays, etc.
My doctors after surgery told me I would not be able to play for 18-24 months and I was mortified. Something such a large part of my life taken away.
On May 6th I actually played in my 1st game in nearly a year. Considering my current treatment last Friday....and my condition, this was nothing short of a miracle. My 1st at bat, 1st live pitch I saw in over a year I ripped a hard single back up the middle. I know it is hard to say, I nearly shed a tear on the way to 1st, it was that moving.
On May 20th, I had my 1st post chemo PET scan. For those that dont know what a PET is...well it is a CT using radio active sugar that is absorbed by cancerous cells/tumors.
Vman takes a deep breath....
My liver is showing a new spot and no growth or shrinkage in the current ones. In both lungs....a have numerous sports that "lit" up on the PET. So it is confirmed...I have cancer in not only my liver but also both lungs.
This is not the news Brenda and I were looking for after 8 months of chemo. I started a new set of drugs Friday May 30th for another 6 months. The bright side...this is not the WORST news either......
The new chemo is BRUTAL. I threw up over 20 times in 2 days. My throat tissue was burnt from the acid I kept spitting up. I could hardly eat and lost 12 pounds in 48 hours. Plus the treatment in LONG. I was in the Cancer Center from 9:45am to 5:00pm.
But, there are MANY positives from this scan. The cancer has not spread past my lungs. Yes I know we are facing many more months of chemo plus a few more surgeries.
Right now I am doing more than surviving...I am thriving. Cancer SURVIVORS in the treatment plan I am on do not play softball, they do not ride at a brisk pace up in the mountains and none that I know of ride at a race pace at a track day.
God is so REAL to me. People say that I am amazing, strong, an inspiration...yes maybe I am all those but my strength comes from ABOVE. I know without God, I would already be dead. HE has blessed me with another 8 months on this Earth.
There are times I feel like "is this chemo really worth the pain?" or "do I really need to continue?" I have so much to be thankful for......I am not ready to throw in the towel and quit. I just am tightening up the laces on my gloves, stepping back in the ring and I will continue to FIGHT this terrible disease.
People have asked, "do you need anything?" The answer is a LOUD yes. Brenda and I covet your prayers. We both know that I am in the battle for my life, my very right to exist. I cannot express what all the calls, PM's, posts from my FAMILY here mean to us. It just helps to know you are not in this FIGHT alone......
Believe,
Kevin
I completed 12 cycles of Folfox with Avastin mixed in for 8 cycles. My fingers and feet have finally succumbed to one of the bad side effects of one of the drugs...they are numb just about all day. It can be difficult to stand, walk, pick up items, even type... This can be permanent...I hope and pray that it will pass...
Most of you hooligans know I have played softball most of my life. I started sometime ,around 12 or 13, something like that. I have had my heyday, being part of a team that finished 6th in the world in Orlando in 1998, many HR's, game winning plays, etc.
My doctors after surgery told me I would not be able to play for 18-24 months and I was mortified. Something such a large part of my life taken away.
On May 6th I actually played in my 1st game in nearly a year. Considering my current treatment last Friday....and my condition, this was nothing short of a miracle. My 1st at bat, 1st live pitch I saw in over a year I ripped a hard single back up the middle. I know it is hard to say, I nearly shed a tear on the way to 1st, it was that moving.
On May 20th, I had my 1st post chemo PET scan. For those that dont know what a PET is...well it is a CT using radio active sugar that is absorbed by cancerous cells/tumors.
Vman takes a deep breath....
My liver is showing a new spot and no growth or shrinkage in the current ones. In both lungs....a have numerous sports that "lit" up on the PET. So it is confirmed...I have cancer in not only my liver but also both lungs.
This is not the news Brenda and I were looking for after 8 months of chemo. I started a new set of drugs Friday May 30th for another 6 months. The bright side...this is not the WORST news either......
The new chemo is BRUTAL. I threw up over 20 times in 2 days. My throat tissue was burnt from the acid I kept spitting up. I could hardly eat and lost 12 pounds in 48 hours. Plus the treatment in LONG. I was in the Cancer Center from 9:45am to 5:00pm.
But, there are MANY positives from this scan. The cancer has not spread past my lungs. Yes I know we are facing many more months of chemo plus a few more surgeries.
Right now I am doing more than surviving...I am thriving. Cancer SURVIVORS in the treatment plan I am on do not play softball, they do not ride at a brisk pace up in the mountains and none that I know of ride at a race pace at a track day.
God is so REAL to me. People say that I am amazing, strong, an inspiration...yes maybe I am all those but my strength comes from ABOVE. I know without God, I would already be dead. HE has blessed me with another 8 months on this Earth.
There are times I feel like "is this chemo really worth the pain?" or "do I really need to continue?" I have so much to be thankful for......I am not ready to throw in the towel and quit. I just am tightening up the laces on my gloves, stepping back in the ring and I will continue to FIGHT this terrible disease.
People have asked, "do you need anything?" The answer is a LOUD yes. Brenda and I covet your prayers. We both know that I am in the battle for my life, my very right to exist. I cannot express what all the calls, PM's, posts from my FAMILY here mean to us. It just helps to know you are not in this FIGHT alone......
Believe,
Kevin
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Well Lookie here......
Last night was another step forward....I actually played in my 1st softball game in 9 months!!! I cannot describe the feeling of stepping out on the field and to have my wife there to witness my excitement was amazing. God is so good to me...allowing me to do something I thought would take a few years to get back too....My performance wasnt that great, I did go 1-4 with 2 RBI's, but for the 1st time seeing live pitches in nearly a year...I will take that.
Last Friday, Michele and her family stopped by on their way to the beach. Thanks guys for the gifts and the visit. I feel like we are part of the same family. Enjoy your vacation, ALL of you deserve it. I cant wait until we can get to spend some more time together.
I am meeting more and more people affected by cancer on a daily basis. I ask that you PRAY for a cure to rid us of this terrible disease. I do have a special prayer request, I have a scan on May 28th to see the progress, read-destruction of the spots left in my liver. Please join with us in this prayer.
Thanks for stopping by.
Believe,
Kevin
Last Friday, Michele and her family stopped by on their way to the beach. Thanks guys for the gifts and the visit. I feel like we are part of the same family. Enjoy your vacation, ALL of you deserve it. I cant wait until we can get to spend some more time together.
I am meeting more and more people affected by cancer on a daily basis. I ask that you PRAY for a cure to rid us of this terrible disease. I do have a special prayer request, I have a scan on May 28th to see the progress, read-destruction of the spots left in my liver. Please join with us in this prayer.
Thanks for stopping by.
Believe,
Kevin
Friday, May 2, 2008
The end of the 12 is in sight....
As I sit here typing, the chemo is dripping into my body. This is round 11 of a scheduled 12. This cycle may be continued for another few, I am not sure yet. I have done extremly well with the side effects and it has shown promising results on what is still left in my body.
The neuropathy has started in my finger tips. I have been blessed to make it this far before it has started. I know God is good to me by allowing me to make it this far. Overall I am doing well with the chemo, although I really just do not want to be here today.
Tonight, I will get to meet one of my internet friends who has defeated this beast. Michele and her family will be making the trip to the coast of NC and is planning on stopping by our house tonight. We have never met, just have be praying for each other since the start of our battle.
Over the weekend, I was able to attend the Busa Bash at Deals Gap. Over 130 Busa's made the trip this year. Being able to spend some time out riding and bench racing with my friends was therapeutic. Thanks to all that hugging my neck, shook my hand and let me know they are praying for me.
This is a shot from our photo shoot on Saturday:
On Saturday, I was able to take a 08 Hayabusa for a spin. With in a few passes, I was already draggin my knees through the corner...
Folks, I challenge you to evaluate your life. Have you asked Jesus into your heart? Time is short and NONE of us are guaranteed another breath.
Where will you spend eternity?
Believe,
Kevin
The neuropathy has started in my finger tips. I have been blessed to make it this far before it has started. I know God is good to me by allowing me to make it this far. Overall I am doing well with the chemo, although I really just do not want to be here today.
Tonight, I will get to meet one of my internet friends who has defeated this beast. Michele and her family will be making the trip to the coast of NC and is planning on stopping by our house tonight. We have never met, just have be praying for each other since the start of our battle.
Over the weekend, I was able to attend the Busa Bash at Deals Gap. Over 130 Busa's made the trip this year. Being able to spend some time out riding and bench racing with my friends was therapeutic. Thanks to all that hugging my neck, shook my hand and let me know they are praying for me.
This is a shot from our photo shoot on Saturday:
On Saturday, I was able to take a 08 Hayabusa for a spin. With in a few passes, I was already draggin my knees through the corner...
Folks, I challenge you to evaluate your life. Have you asked Jesus into your heart? Time is short and NONE of us are guaranteed another breath.
Where will you spend eternity?
Believe,
Kevin
Friday, April 11, 2008
Vacation pics......and more answered prayer.
Today was round 10, hip hip hooray!!!! I am doing well with 10, just a few more to go. My platelet count was very low for 9, it had dropped to 108. Today it was back at 160. This is nothing but answered prayer.
Now for a few vacation pics.
View from the balcony.
Self pic, arent we cute?
Anudder cutie pic.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co
My "Bucket of Boat Trash"
Our race team is "So Fast, So Clean"........I did find "Fast Clean" in Cancun
Shot of the bay...
Last but not least, us again.....
We are so thankful we were able to sneak away for a few days. God IS SO GOOD to us. I will have a 2 week break to go to the Busa Bash at Deals Gap on the 25th. looking forward to seeing some of my hooligan friends.
Brenda and I still ask for your prayers. This treatment is getting rough each time, but I thank Jesus for helping me every step of the way.
Believe,
Kevin
Now for a few vacation pics.
View from the balcony.
Self pic, arent we cute?
Anudder cutie pic.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co
My "Bucket of Boat Trash"
Our race team is "So Fast, So Clean"........I did find "Fast Clean" in Cancun
Shot of the bay...
Last but not least, us again.....
We are so thankful we were able to sneak away for a few days. God IS SO GOOD to us. I will have a 2 week break to go to the Busa Bash at Deals Gap on the 25th. looking forward to seeing some of my hooligan friends.
Brenda and I still ask for your prayers. This treatment is getting rough each time, but I thank Jesus for helping me every step of the way.
Believe,
Kevin
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
I am such a slacker.....
March 18th....wow, I need to post more. In Casa de Vman things are going as planned. I had round 9 of my chemo cocktail last Friday. The good news, my abdomen is healed and my Onc added Avastin back to the mix. It makes for a long treatment, 5 hours, but I know it is what is gonna make me better.
I am cleared to start playing softball again and I hope to get some batting practice in soon, I am only 3 months behind, lol. There are a few of us that start hitting in January. I dont know how my reflexes will be so I am going to start the season off a few levels below what I normally play.
It seems that everyday I am so thankful for being ALIVE. Cancer may still be in my body but the drugs are working. All the experiences over the last few months have made me a better person. I know that is hard for some to fathom. But believe me when I say.....do not take your life for granted.
Thanks for all the prayers, emails, calls......they mean so much to both of us. We both still have out days that register high on the tear scale(borrowed from Michele and used WITHOUT premission, lol).
I know some are asking for vacation pics....as soon as I can get some time to resize them I will post them up.
Keep in touch.
Believe,
Kevin
I am cleared to start playing softball again and I hope to get some batting practice in soon, I am only 3 months behind, lol. There are a few of us that start hitting in January. I dont know how my reflexes will be so I am going to start the season off a few levels below what I normally play.
It seems that everyday I am so thankful for being ALIVE. Cancer may still be in my body but the drugs are working. All the experiences over the last few months have made me a better person. I know that is hard for some to fathom. But believe me when I say.....do not take your life for granted.
Thanks for all the prayers, emails, calls......they mean so much to both of us. We both still have out days that register high on the tear scale(borrowed from Michele and used WITHOUT premission, lol).
I know some are asking for vacation pics....as soon as I can get some time to resize them I will post them up.
Keep in touch.
Believe,
Kevin
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Hope
What a word. For many years, I used it without ever considering the FULL meaning of the word. I am so thankful I still have hope and the desire to continue attacking this disease with everything I have got. As my fellow fighters know, treatment can sometimes get harder, and that is the cold hard facts of chemo. I just want to say round 8 was my best yet! Thank you Jesus for allowing that to happen. We are both so blessed.
On Friday, we did discuss options when my cycle is over. It looks like I am gonna switch to the oral version of 5FU with an infusion of Avastin every 2 weeks for 6 months or so. Onc wants my mets to be as small as possible before RFA. I am not looking forward to more chemo, but I know that is my road to recovery.
Vacation update....just a little bit of good news. Vacation Express has issued us a large credit to our credit card for all the issues we experienced in Cancun. It is so nice to see customer service still alive and working.
We cannot say it enough, thanks for all the prayers, calls, email, cards, etc. Both of us know, I am still in a battle for my life. Yes progress is being made, but I have along way to go. I have put 100% of my Faith in God for complete healing. To all my friends and fighters, keep up the fight and never throw in the towel.
Believe,
Kevin
On Friday, we did discuss options when my cycle is over. It looks like I am gonna switch to the oral version of 5FU with an infusion of Avastin every 2 weeks for 6 months or so. Onc wants my mets to be as small as possible before RFA. I am not looking forward to more chemo, but I know that is my road to recovery.
Vacation update....just a little bit of good news. Vacation Express has issued us a large credit to our credit card for all the issues we experienced in Cancun. It is so nice to see customer service still alive and working.
We cannot say it enough, thanks for all the prayers, calls, email, cards, etc. Both of us know, I am still in a battle for my life. Yes progress is being made, but I have along way to go. I have put 100% of my Faith in God for complete healing. To all my friends and fighters, keep up the fight and never throw in the towel.
Believe,
Kevin
Friday, February 29, 2008
Back from Cancun and a CT scan....
Brenda and I returned from Cancun this week. We spent last Friday night in Atlanta after eating at a South African restaurant with some of our Hooligan friends. After a great meal and some sleep, we were off to Cancun.
Our 4 star hotel turned out to be the worst we have every stayed in over our many travels through the Bahamas, Mexico and Caribbean. We got to the hotel, the Great Parnassas around 6:30 PM, checked in and were told the hotel was over booked and they were sending us to a comparable resort, the Great Solaris. Come to find out this is a 3.5 star hotel....
After the taxi ride, unloading the luggage and checking it with the bellhop, we proceeded to the front desk. I presented the certificate from the Parnassas. We were promptly told there was no rooms here either. Needless to say we were fit to be tied. The Manager then sent us to the GR Solaris where we finally got a room sometime after 9pm.
Sunday we returned to the Parnassus to check in, we had a room, woo hoo! After getting to the room, we noticed the A/C was not working. The bellhop told us they are working on the A/C and it should be fixed within the hour. So off to town we went.....
Back to the room around 10 to still no A/C. I am so furious. Brenda called the front desk to tell the staff. A person was sent to check on the unit. He said he fixed the unit and the temp will drop within the hour..... We waited and the temp actually went up. At 11pm room temp was 81 degrees!
After more complaining we were sent to a room with 2 twin beds and no jacuzzi, quite a few rooms below what we payed for. Needless to say the A/C worked and we were both beat. Bright and early we were both back at the front desk. After speaking to the front desk manager, we were upgraded to a different suite. Finally something was going our way or so we thought.
After getting into the room, 2 hours after we told it would be ready, the room was good. We went back to town and arrived back late. Both of us were ready to soak the night away in the jazuzzi(be quite Michelle!) After getting the tub full, adding bubble bath and getting in..the tub was broke! One more call to the front desk and someone was sent to fix the tub....after that we were both fed up and just went to bed.
The next day, we spent the day at the beach and pool, so relaxing. We came in around 4 to get ready for dinner. Brenda jumped in the shower and no cold water, only scalding hot water. One more call to the front desk. We were told that they were coming to check. After an hour I called back and was told that there was an issue with the cold water system. I blistered the guy for being lied too and not told this an hour ago. Later that night, the jacuzzi was just what we needed. Learing from experience, we checked and it was broken again, one more call to the front desk, some one was there quick and fixed the tub.
These are just the big issues we had, I will not bore ya with the small ones. Needless to say our travel agent, Vacation Express and Elite Tours have all filed a complaint with the hotel. I will keep you guys posted on the out come....
Other than the issues with the hotel, we had a great time. Both of us needed some time away just relaxing and this vacation accomplished it! I do have a few pics and I will get a few posted up soon.
Now for some GREAT news. I had a CT scan today and 4 lesions in my liver shrank by more than a third. Keep in mind, there were 6 to start with, nothing was seen on the 2 smaller ones. The nodules in my lungs are stable and not growing. This is nothing but answered prayer. We both thank God for answering this prayer.Keep in mind this is without Avastin, I should be back on it in maybe 4 weeks.
Round 7 went well today and after meeting with the Onc, I am now a candidate for RFA as long as the shrinkage continues. Thanks you all for the prayers, calls and emails.
Believe,
Kevin
Our 4 star hotel turned out to be the worst we have every stayed in over our many travels through the Bahamas, Mexico and Caribbean. We got to the hotel, the Great Parnassas around 6:30 PM, checked in and were told the hotel was over booked and they were sending us to a comparable resort, the Great Solaris. Come to find out this is a 3.5 star hotel....
After the taxi ride, unloading the luggage and checking it with the bellhop, we proceeded to the front desk. I presented the certificate from the Parnassas. We were promptly told there was no rooms here either. Needless to say we were fit to be tied. The Manager then sent us to the GR Solaris where we finally got a room sometime after 9pm.
Sunday we returned to the Parnassus to check in, we had a room, woo hoo! After getting to the room, we noticed the A/C was not working. The bellhop told us they are working on the A/C and it should be fixed within the hour. So off to town we went.....
Back to the room around 10 to still no A/C. I am so furious. Brenda called the front desk to tell the staff. A person was sent to check on the unit. He said he fixed the unit and the temp will drop within the hour..... We waited and the temp actually went up. At 11pm room temp was 81 degrees!
After more complaining we were sent to a room with 2 twin beds and no jacuzzi, quite a few rooms below what we payed for. Needless to say the A/C worked and we were both beat. Bright and early we were both back at the front desk. After speaking to the front desk manager, we were upgraded to a different suite. Finally something was going our way or so we thought.
After getting into the room, 2 hours after we told it would be ready, the room was good. We went back to town and arrived back late. Both of us were ready to soak the night away in the jazuzzi(be quite Michelle!) After getting the tub full, adding bubble bath and getting in..the tub was broke! One more call to the front desk and someone was sent to fix the tub....after that we were both fed up and just went to bed.
The next day, we spent the day at the beach and pool, so relaxing. We came in around 4 to get ready for dinner. Brenda jumped in the shower and no cold water, only scalding hot water. One more call to the front desk. We were told that they were coming to check. After an hour I called back and was told that there was an issue with the cold water system. I blistered the guy for being lied too and not told this an hour ago. Later that night, the jacuzzi was just what we needed. Learing from experience, we checked and it was broken again, one more call to the front desk, some one was there quick and fixed the tub.
These are just the big issues we had, I will not bore ya with the small ones. Needless to say our travel agent, Vacation Express and Elite Tours have all filed a complaint with the hotel. I will keep you guys posted on the out come....
Other than the issues with the hotel, we had a great time. Both of us needed some time away just relaxing and this vacation accomplished it! I do have a few pics and I will get a few posted up soon.
Now for some GREAT news. I had a CT scan today and 4 lesions in my liver shrank by more than a third. Keep in mind, there were 6 to start with, nothing was seen on the 2 smaller ones. The nodules in my lungs are stable and not growing. This is nothing but answered prayer. We both thank God for answering this prayer.Keep in mind this is without Avastin, I should be back on it in maybe 4 weeks.
Round 7 went well today and after meeting with the Onc, I am now a candidate for RFA as long as the shrinkage continues. Thanks you all for the prayers, calls and emails.
Believe,
Kevin
Saturday, February 16, 2008
This is a first....
I actually went to work today for a few hours. We are moving into our new office and I felt I need to be there for a bit to get stuff prepared for the Monday rush. Plus I had to reset my remote access program so I can work for home for a bit.
Thanks for all the calls and prayers, there is no way I could or better yet no way Brenda and I can make it through this trial without the Love of our Savior.
Believe,
Kevin.
Thanks for all the calls and prayers, there is no way I could or better yet no way Brenda and I can make it through this trial without the Love of our Savior.
Believe,
Kevin.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
