Dave’s Story

Site created on January 15, 2021

Family and Friends: We need to share some news about Dad. He took a turn for the worse after Christmas. We all believed the increased symptoms were Parkinson’s related. Last Saturday Dad was in incredible pain. He was taken by ambulance to MercyOne. After several tests a CT with contrast was done. This scan indicated that Dad has cancer. After several days of testing we received the devastating news that he has Stage 4 Metastatic Melanoma. It originated on his scalp and has spread to his brain, lungs, adrenals, and abdominal wall. After 8 years of fighting Parkinson’s disease, none of us saw this blow coming. We understand that this cancer in not curable. We have an amazing (and large) team of doctors, nurses, therapists and palliative care specialists who are helping “the three musketeers” as Dad calls us (Dad, Lynhon and myself) make the impossible decisions. We all agree his quality of life is what we will fight for. With that said we are going to be starting to use Caring Bridge to give updates and document this journey. As you all know, Dad would want others to learn from his lived experience, especially if it can ease or save someone their own pain. We are eternally grateful for the staff at MercyOne for allowing both Lynhon and I to be with Dad at all times. Lynhon has barely left his side. So whatever your beliefs are please send her some extra love. Your prayers, love and light are appreciated. I know there is so much else to say but it will have to wait a bit. My heart just can’t find the words....

Newest Update

January 21, 2021

Journal entry by Jen Stout —

1/21/21 at around 10:00 am my Dad transitioned from this life.  A profound, gapping hole is felt by all who love him.  Dad didn’t like center stage.  He was happy standing to the side watching Lynhon hosting and organizing, me in a zillion dance recitals and the grandkids in literally everything they have ever done.  He understood that it was important for family and friends to gather together to celebrate him.  He never understood why we would make such  a big deal over him....but we all know how special and amazing he was.  His life and legacy will be honored in a Celebration of Life at a later date when it safe for us all to do so.  I will miss him every day for the rest of my life.
Read More of the journal titled "January 21, 2021"
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