I’m just realizing that we haven’t updated the CaringBridge page since Dad’s surgery was completed over a month ago – So let’s get you all up to speed!

As the title of this post suggests, Dad has been “healing and dealing” the past few weeks. Healing from surgery in order to move on to the next steps in the process of kicking cancer’s butt. By dealing, I mean, dealing with all of us ladies in his life asking “how much water have you drank today?”… “did you take your medicine?”… “are you eating enough?”… poor guy can’t catch a break LOL.
________________________________________________________________________________

On a more serious note – here’s our update:

Following the surgery, we were given a little more clarity as to what exactly they found during Dad’s procedure. A small portion of his stomach, pancreas and one adrenal gland were removed during the procedure. The biopsy results confirmed it was his pancreatic cancer that had returned. Fortunately, he has one of the best surgeon’s around! She was able to successfully remove all the visible cancer – but not without a fight getting through lots of scar tissue.

After receiving the positive biopsy results, his care team conducted several tests to verify the cancer hadn’t mutated or metastasized further. Full body scans determined that all areas were ‘unremarkable’.

Since it has been less than a year from his previous radiation treatment, it would be too dangerous to begin radiating the same area this soon. Radiation too early can cause damaging effects to organs in the surrounding areas. Due to this, it was determined that Chemotherapy would be the best next step.

Dad had his final follow-up visit with his surgeon this week and has been cleared for Chemotherapy. He will begin treatment on March 4th. They will learn additional information about the type and strength of treatment on February 29th when they have a chemo learning session.

The healing process has not been easy but my Dad never ceases to amaze me – he carries on and stays positive through it all. To say he is my real-life superhero is an understatement. He is the epitome of a strong and faithful servant – he never ceases to rely on our Great Physician.  

Please continue to keep Dad (and my Mom) in your prayers for strength, courage and healing.