James was diagnosed with laryngeal/supraglottis (voice box) cancer a short time ago. Although he hasn't seen an oncologist at this point, his ENT told him he would be having radiation and chemotherapy simultaneously for 7-8 weeks. He is seeing an orthodontist today to have a protective device made to protect his teeth during treatment. This is something is ENT suggested he get done first because he can't start treatment without it. The doctor told him this will be a very tough treatment and he may feel like quitting at times. James is a strong guy and we will give him all the support we can to help him through this difficult journey. At some point, he will have a feeding tube because of the pain of treating cancer in this area and not being able to eat.
To compound the devastation of going through this, James has no medical insurance. He is a single dad and we will be starting a campaign to help him with the huge expenses he will incur through this process.
For those of you who don't know James or haven't kept up with him over the years, here is a little bit about him. James has two daughters - Jestine Gerber 28 and Gabrielle (Gabby)Hopkins 15. He has a lovely lady in his life, Susie McCullough, who has been to all of his appointments with him. This is a truly difficult accomplishment for her. She is a single mother of four and a school teacher and lives about 30 minutes from where James does. James is the manager of a relatively new company, Buy Door Hardware Now. James took a chance and started the business with his step-dad, Ed Nettles in 2012. The company was in the process of looking for employee medical insurance when James was diagnosed. James lives in Blue Springs, MO. with his daughter Gabby.
We will try to keep you posted as James continues his journey. We sincerely appreciate your prayers and good wishes for his cure!
For more information about supraglottic cancer ........
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/852908-overview.
