A Catch-up Entry

After having the pathology report from my family doctor, I had a follow-up visit with the Urologist on Wed, Oct 7. He also reported the same thing about the pathologist's report, but also stated that I would need a CT Scan in order to fully determine any incidence of cancer. I was scheduled for the scan on Friday morning, and an appointment with an Oncologist on Fri afternoon.

Allison & I went to the CT Scan at the Pioneer Valley Hospital that Friday. I had to drink some 'constrast' drink, so that the CT would show up properly. It wasn't too bad. The IV the nurse gave me went quite well also. I also had a chest xray. We were done by 9am, then waited a few minutes for a copy of the scans.

We were hungry so we got off the freeway at 123rd South and found that the Gandolfo's there was giving away breakfast sandwiches. We bought drinks and had free breakfast. A nice old guy (nutty) sat by us and told us all about his travels, etc.

After we left there, we got a couple of calls. They were from the kids and also from Dr. Hibbert (the Urologist). He was calling to tell me that the CT Scan showed that there was actually some cancer in some lymph nodes and even a small spot on my lung. We weren't sure fully what this meant, but I was not very happy for the next 2-3 hours until we got to visit the Oncologist. His name is Nathan Rich. He actually lives two blocks down the street from us in the next ward. He went to school with Dr. Hibbert and he's very good. (Note: we found out he's VERY good!)

Dr. Rich was very thorough. We met with his nurse practitioner first. She explained what they had found, which we knew. Dr. Rich then came in and spent a fair amount of time with us, explaining the treatment. I will have to undergo Chemotherapy. It will be a week on, two weeks off, and that will happen a total of three times. Basically, I start Oct 26 and will be done Dec 21. I will have an IV daily the three weeks, and then another one every Monday. The drugs are powerful, I will lose my hair, be sleepy, nauseous, etc.

On Sat, we went to meet with Dr. Forbes and reviewed everything with her as well. We feel very positive about the need for the treatment and the outcome. I'm not thrilled, but I'm optimistic. I met with my manager at work, first thing on Monday morning and I will be able to work from home for the whole time. I'll do remote work, as well as some needed training, etc.

We finally had a chance to talk to Winston in depth about the whole thing. He is quite upbeat, as are all the kids. I will not go to work, church, or anywhere, except to the hospital for treatments. I will be in isolation so as to not get any of the respitory illnesses running around now. In fact, Dr. Forbes was able to get us the H1N1 flu vaccine (swine flu) which is unavailable.

Allison and I went to the temple on Thu night. We discussed and visited in the Celestial Room what this all means. I told her, I feel strongly that this is just a small blip. I will come through this with flying colors. It won't be fun, but once I'm through, I will be able to be a much better disciple of Christ, will understand and appreciate his love more fully, and have better empathy for others.

I have set some lofty goals while I'm in isolation: write to the missionaries in our ward. Write to those in our ward who need exra support right now. Write letters to those whom I home teach and expect them to reach and grow; specifically the children. Write more in my journal. Discuss and learn of Christ's atonement and suffering. Read the weekly lessons in Sunday School, Priesthood, the hymns we are singing, etc. I want to be able to help others and show them that the Lord loves us all and is mindful of all of us at all times and in all places. This is my handcart trek; though not near as hard has the pioneers had it. I expect that I will have to be carried forth by angels, as well as by my lovely sweetheart (the best angel I know!).

Allison is such a rock. She is abit weary and today I gave here a blessing of comfort and strength. She is too kind to me and I want to make sure that all is well for her as we progress forward. I love her more than I could have ever imagined. I pray for her and the children constantly and know that they will be strengthened as well.

More to follow...