The first MRI looking at the actual cancer occurred yesterday. We received the interpreted results today from both my surgeon, Dr. Bascom, and my oncologist, Dr. Monticelli. It turns out that there are actually eleven nodes of cancer on my liver instead of the previously thought twelve. It also turns out that this doesn't really mean much. Also, the MRI revealed I have Cirrhosis of the Liver. Unfortunately I didn't do any years of cool rock-star alcoholism to get it... I'm just fat and diabetic. The cirrhosis could go away if I lose weight. Unfortunately between the steroids and my inability, for the most part, to exercise (due to the still recovering surgical wound) I won't be losing any weight any time soon.
Today I also experienced the first combination of my normal, and slightly upped, chemo combined with my Erbitux. So I've had some immediate side-effects. Nothing really new, just quick onset and continued problems which include rashes (kind of like a heat-rash), ridged fingernails, very dry skin, nausea, aches and pains. I'll expect more fatigue to come.
I've had a lot of other firsts and a lot of attention over this last weekends and upcoming events. It's funny because right now I need, but definitely don't want, the attention. I never like a lot of attention. I don't deal well with compliments. But with the Papa's Pizza fundraiser coming up on April 16th I need all the publicity I can get. The thing is, I'm sort of ashamed. I feel like I'm begging friends, family and people I don't even know for money. I'm working. I'm making a (very small) pay check. But the bills are just piling up and we can't cover it any more. I'm ashamed to not be "taking care of my family". I'm a little stupidly old-fashioned that way. (I said I was stupid. Now you don't have to.)
"The suspense is terrible. I hope it will last."
- Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka
If you want to participate in the fund-raiser you'll need a flyer and may download one by clicking here.
God continues to bless me daily with the strength to go to work, the joy to laugh at the stupidest things, and the peace that my family will be ok. I rejoice and am humbled that some of you have been touched by a few of my writings and jokes. Hope that continues.
- If you're looking for a place to donate to my medical bills click here:
- If you're looking for the recent news story on KMTR you can see it here.
- If you're looking for my recent comedy "set" at the Laff-Off you can look below or click here.
This weekend we'll be traveling with the in-laws to Washington for a memorial service. Uncle Floyd passed away this week. He'll be missed dearly. We are sure he is rejoicing in Heaven.
2 comments:
Hang in there buddy. I'm glued to your blog. We plan to attend your fundraiser! If there's something I can do, let me know. As much as people ask if we're related, I feel like we are, or should be. If you aren't already my brother, I'd like you to be.
Hey, Aaron! Lu-Lu here!
I'm bringing everybody I know to Papa's. People who can't come are being directed to your blog, so they can throw down there. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to help out!
I've been thinking over the last few days, about your recent discoveries, in health and life in general... How do I put this? A less faithful person would possibly promote a really negative lesson out of this. There are definitely gifts to be given, and received, from your illness, and someone lacking the appropriate foundation would waste and squander them. So, in a way, I'm glad it's you, but... well, you get it.
I'm glad there is time to spend with you! I fully intend to get some coffee (they do still let you have that, right? :) ) with you and meet your wife soon... if you want!
I'll let you get ahold of me!
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