If there is anything that changes your perspective of your life, family, friends, work, the little things, the big things, the everyday things, and your future, it is receiving a shocking medical diagnosis. We have been in a daze for the last three weeks taking all this in and gaining a better understanding of the steps ahead, and now we are ready to fight with the support of our loved ones!
In mid-December, Brian was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic colon cancer. His cancer started in the right side of the colon at the cecum and has spread to his liver and abdominal lymph nodes. Many people have asked about his symptoms since he just turned 49 and has yet to have a colonoscopy. He had absolutely no symptoms until mid-November when he had some upper abdominal pain and what he thought was heartburn. After an ultrasound, a few CT scans and biopsy, the results confirmed cancer.
Chemotherapy will begin on Wednesday, January 12 at M Health Fairview at the University of Minnesota. The plan is to have chemotherapy every two weeks for the next 2-3 months and then have another scan to see how it is working. His chemo will include a 4-hour infusion at the clinic and then a 46-hour “take-home” pump.
Brian will be immunocompromised and at high risk of getting Covid and other viruses. Therefore, we will be taking extra precautions. If anyone would like to visit us, they will need to be vaccinated, boosted, and then take a rapid test right before. We hope everyone can respect our decision.
We are incredibly fortunate to have the absolute BEST family and friends. All the expressions of love and support have been helping us get through each day. Many people have asked how they can help. Some friends are coordinating a site for this and we'll include that information on this site in the near future. Thank you. We love you all. Now onward to take control over the F’ing cancer and heal Brian!!
Thank you to all who attended Brian's Celebration of Life on Friday. I wish there would have been a chance for us to speak to each and every one of you individually. It was incredibly heartwarming to see so many people whose lives were impacted by Brian. He would have loved all of his favorite people gathered together and sharing stories. ❤️
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