Kevin’s Story

Site created on July 25, 2022

 Earlier this past summer, Kevin began to suffer from severe headaches. These headaches persisted for 3 days. On June 22, 2022, Kevin visited the ER to see what was going on. Doctors ran some tests, and the CT scan and MRI revealed a mass deep in his brain. 

Kevin was then sent to the University of Chicago where he awaited surgery. Thankfully, many kept him company throughout these days. Now, COVID protocols are still in place in Chicago, so Kevin was allowed two visitors a day; however, everyone knows you can't keep a Bultema down, so he was permitted to visit with others at a local Starbucks - yes, Kevin had in-and-out privileges at the hospital. Some of the nurses went so far as to encourage him to cover his IV port so security wouldn't get suspicious. Still, even with welcomed family distraction, the waiting and anxiousness of it all was difficult. On June 27, Kevin underwent surgery to remove as much of the tumor as was safely possible, and began his recovery. We praise God for preserving him through the surgery and for giving his body the strength it needed to begin to heal. 

In the weeks that followed, the pathology report on his tumor became available, and the doctors informed him of his diagnosis - Grade 4 Glioma - an aggressive brain cancer. Doctors are prescribing a rigorous treatment regimen consisting of the following: 6 weeks of radiation and low dose chemotherapy (5 days/week), one month off, followed by a high dose of chemotherapy accompanied by an electrode treatment headset he needs to wear for 18 hours a day. The second phase of his treatment is scheduled to last 6 months. 

Treatment will begin soon. Meanwhile, Kevin continues to make progress in his recovery from surgery. Each day we see glimpses of the "old Kevin," but his occasional fatigue, shortened work days, and some lingering side effects are a reminder that the road ahead is long, and marked with uncertainty. 

Kevin, Jen, and the kids covet your prayers during this time. As treatment progresses, updates and any needs the family might incur may be posted here. Again, thank you for your prayers and concerns. 





Newest Update

Thank You!

Journal entry by Michael and Kimberly (Bultema) Deckinga —

Dear Family & Friends, 

We want to thank everyone so much on behalf of the family. You really showed up this weekend for Kevin's visitation and funeral. We were utterly overwhelmed by the love and support you showed us. From start to finish, Kevin's visitation was a packed house from teachers and staff from Crown Point Christian School and Illiana Christian High School to the basketball, volleyball, and baseball teams that arrived in the Illiana busses, to our church family - both from Lynwood United Reformed Church and so many other churches from across the region. We have been so humbled and encouraged by the care and concern you have shown us this past weekend and over the last nine months. The Lord has used you tremendously to uplift our spirits and strengthen our faith. 

On behalf of Jen, the kids, and the extended family, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. 

Read More of the journal titled "Thank You!"
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