As most of you know, Cole (17 years old) had 3 surgeries last fall due to the pneumothorax he experienced on his right lung. In June, 2020, during a follow-up appointment to ensure that his lungs were healing/functioning properly, the surgeon saw some areas of concern on the chest x-ray. The family was referred to a pulmonologist who requested a CAT scan. Two nodules (one in each lung) and a tumor (on his upper right lung) were discovered and resulted in a referral to a hematologist/oncologist. The PET-CT scan performed revealed a tumor on Cole's left forearm, also. A biopsy of the forearm tumor was performed by an orthopedic surgeon in Iowa City on August 11 and a lung biopsy was performed shortly after that.
In the midst of all of the appointments and tests, it was also discovered that Cole’s lungs are operating at 60% capacity. He has been diagnosed with asthma and is allergic to most things: trees, grass, dogs, cats, fungus, etc. He is now taking a maintenance drug daily to help alleviate these symptoms.
On September 17th, a final diagnosis of Ewing Sarcoma was received from Mayo. This cancer is rare and aggressive; it is smart and likes to hide in the body. In order to battle this cancer, the treatment will also be aggressive. Cole is facing 9-12 months of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. If the cancer can be eliminated and remains out of his body for 5 years, the recovery rate is 100%.
Cole, Diann, and Mike have decided to remain close to home and seek treatment here in Des Moines. They are confident that they can get the same results here as their doctors will continue to consult with their collegues at Mayo and in Texas. They are very blessed to have such an amazing support network including family, friends, classmates, coaches and coworkers and have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of support that they have already received.
Please refer back to this website frequently for updates. We will be assisting with updates, but I'm certain Diann will be completing journal entries from time to time as well. More information on how you can help will be provided in the near future. In the meantime, please keep Cole, Diann, Mike, and Seth in your prayers.
Informational links
Pneumothorax:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pneumothorax/symptoms-causes/syc-20350367Ewing Sarcoma:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ewing-sarcoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20351071 
