On Friday, December 1st, 2023, Dane was diagnosed with colon cancer. Further scans on December 2nd, 2023, revealed the devastating news that the cancer has metastasized into his liver. Life is simply not fair! Dane is only 37 years old. On December 5, 2023, Dane and Kristin met with his surgeon (who is amazing). A decision was made to postpone surgery until Dane's case is presented to the "tumor board" in the next 5 days. Dane's treatment team and the tumor board will create his plan moving forward. The plan will be to aggressively eradicate the cancer. Dane is young, very healthy (minus the cancer) and so strong, and this makes him a great candidate for multiple approaches. This may mean beginning radiation first or chemo first or surgery, then chemo and radiation. The surgeon, staying a few steps ahead of the journey, has reserved the operating room for December 15, 2023, so that surgery can happen quick if that is the consensus. There is almost a complete blockage, so they are keeping a close eye on Dane. This week we will also meet with oncology.
Dane is considered stage 4 at this time. What does that mean.... Dane has taken the field for the biggest game of his life. Dane WILL knock cancer out of the park with the help of his favorite #77s, #10 and heavy D. Dane’s number one job for years has been to be the very best second dad to Emma, Charlie and Ellie. Three years ago, through adoption, Dane was blessed with the opportunity to become dad to Dawson. From the moment Dawson was placed into Dane’s arms their was a bond that is powerful. Dane will FIGHT endlessly for his 4 children! And there is no doubt that there is no better motivation. Dane is such an Incredible force in the kids world, and cancer won’t come in between them.
Kristin has begun her most important job of her lifetime, as Dane's advocate. All we can say is watch out UCHealth. Please pray for all those that come in contact with her, but in the same breath there will be no better "Joe Torre" or “Aaron Boone” for him. Kristin will 100% ensure Dane gets the very best care, treatment and cure. Nothing will stand in her way.
Our team is so mighty and we are so thankful for the countless people who have signed up to make meals, made generous donations and offered their help. It has brought us to tears. This will be a long season, but Dane is known for his strength and determination. We know this game will be going into extra innings and we will continue to update you as further needs arise. At this time, the meal delivery, monetary contributions to ease this burden, messages of encouragement and hope and visits are what we need most! Thank you for being part of our All Star Team to help Dane win the biggest game of his life!
Dane needs encouraging words, funny messages and sometimes just a big hug. He needs laughter and for his beloved Yankees to have a a better season next season when he’s kicking cancer’s butt.
And to Dane, you are our MVP. We got this, buddy. We do... you are surrounded by so many people that have you covered in prayers and positive thoughts. As you have said more than once... you have this... you can do this and we all believe that you will knock cancer out of the park. You are loved, big guy!
Hi, everyone! I just wanted to let you know that I have made some updates to the Meal Train (the link is copied below or you can access it via the Ways To Help section).
A message from Kristin- "Dane begins chemo today again. He will have 6-8 sessions 2 weeks apart. After chemo he will begin radiation for 5 weeks 5 times per week. After radiation, Dane will have the colon resection. All of Dane’s labs were completely normal this morning, including his liver values. This is amazing.
As daunting as the next 6 months will be, Dane’s ready for this and is in great spirits because he is winning this battle. Dane’s in his zone and ready for his recovery during baseball season. Let’s go, Yankees!"
Dane and Kristin continue to be amazed by their mighty village. When asked by family and friends what they need- Kristin continues to answer prayers and positive thoughts. This is very Kristin. She is slow to ask for help but is learning. Thank you for everyone that checks in on her, too. We are restarting the meal train for a few times per week while Dane receives treatment. This helps immensely considering the 3 older kids have softball and baseball at times 6 days per week, and Kristin is the taxi driver extraordinaire. When she doesn’t have to worry about dinner it’s a life saver!
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