Jim’s Story

Site created on August 31, 2020

For several years now, Jim has been battling neuroendocrine cancer. After surgeries, various treatments, and a clinical trial, the cancer has continued to spread. During the last visit to Iowa in late August, the test showed the cancer having grown further in the liver and bone.
 
Meeting with his oncologist, Jim was provided a few options for the next steps:
 • switch oral chemo medications which could have continued negative side effects
 • explore a very new clinical trial in Houston, Texas in which he could be the recipient of a placebo
 • forego further treatment to fight the cancer and concentrate on quality of life and comfort

While the decision certainly wasn’t easy, Jim and the family chose to focus on quality of life, being comfortable and enjoying time with family and friends.

The family is in the process of making accommodations to allow Sam (and family) and Sara (and family) to stay at the house to socialize, assist with household tasks, and run errands. Hospice care will be coming in several times to provide medical care, help with personal care, and any other needs Jim has. 

We are setting up this Caring Bridge to communicate with everyone in one place and ask for help and support. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.

Newest Update

October 9, 2020

Journal entry by Sara Pertz —

Thanks to all for reaching out this week and supporting the family in Dad's passing. Dad was an amazing man who taught me so much about love, relationships, the outdoors, hard work, and, perhaps most importantly, how to play cribbage.
 
The service will be a small family gathering on Saturday, October 10 at 11:30 am. I will be live streaming the private service on Facebook for others to view - you can view the event link here https://fb.me/e/33xvI9lLZ. 
 
We will be having a Celebration of Life outdoor gathering this Saturday from 1 – 4 pm at Pam and Jim’s to celebrate and honor Dad.
 
Please plan to wear masks and feel free to message Sam, Lisa, or me for any more details in celebrating Dad.
 
--
Sara
Read More of the journal titled "October 9, 2020"
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