Kevin’s Story

Site created on April 16, 2023

Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.

In February, Kevin received a diagnosis that no one ever wants to hear - kidney cancer. The road to this diagnosis began in January when he visited his primary doctor due to concerning weight loss. Blood tests were ordered and revealed a low hemoglobin level, which led to tests including a CT scan. The results of the scan were alarming as masses were found on both kidneys and nodules were present in his lungs.

Early in March, Kevin met with his cancer doctor and unfortunately, was confirmed to have stage 4 cancer. Although a biopsy of the kidney was attempted to determine the cancer type, the cells obtained were already dead, necessitating a biopsy of the lungs. The biopsy results confirmed that the cancer originated in his kidneys and had spread to his lungs.

A port placement in March has been a great help to Kevin, as it is so much better than being poked in the arm for IV's and blood draws. He has had multiple blood transfusions. His treatment plan includes IV immunotherapy every three weeks, of which he has already completed two sessions.
Prior to his diagnosis, Kevin was working full-time as a maintenance worker for an apartment building while also holding a part-time job at Do It Best Hardware. However, he was forced to quit his job at the hardware store in January and reduce his hours at the apartments to half-days due to his health. Currently, he has taken a leave of absence from work altogether, as his pain and low energy levels have made it too challenging to continue working.

Newest Update

2023 Reflections and Gratitude

Journal entry by Tina John —

As I reflect on the challenges of 2023, undoubtedly the most trying year of my life, I find it essential to express my gratitude for the following:

  • Appreciation for the flexibility shown by my workplace, allowing me to accompany Kevin to numerous appointments and stand by his side during hospital stays.
  • Profound gratitude to my work family for their unwavering support throughout the year. A special acknowledgment to those who orchestrated and volunteered at Kevin's fundraiser.
  • Thanks to everyone who contributed to Kevin's fundraiser, whether through donations or attendance.
  • Heartfelt appreciation to The Goodman Group, Kevin's employer, for the Hy-Vee gift cards that provided groceries when we needed it the most.
  • A deep sense of gratitude to my parents, who traveled back and fourth several weeks, providing support, and assisting with the children's transportation to school when I couldn't leave Kevin alone.
  • And to others who generously offered their time to give my kids rides to and from school.
  • Gratitude for the thoughtful gestures of providing meals and restaurant gift cards, relieving me of the burden of planning dinner during challenging times.
  • Appreciation for Open Arms, which provided meals for the family.
  • Thanks to the Angel Foundation for offering gift cards and arranging a memorable swimming event for the girls.
  • Acknowledgment of the dedication and care provided by the doctors, nurses, and staff who attended to Kevin during appointments, hospital stays, and his time on hospice at home.
  • Appreciation to my children for their support and contributions in handling various household tasks. And being there for each other and me for emotional support. 
  • Appreciation for my sister's efforts in organizing Kevin's memorial.
  • Recognition of the crucial benefits from Kevin's workplace, including short-term and long-term disability, providing a source of income during his inability to work.
  • Thanks to Kevin's sisters and other family for visiting, especially Katie, who was here almost every day during his time on hospice.
  • Gratitude to friends from Preg.org, with whom I've maintained connections since my pregnancy with Sammy, for coming together to offer financial support after Kevin's passing.
  • Friends and Family who called to check on me and listen when I needed someone to talk to.
  • The Goodman Group for sponsoring our family for Christmas gifts.
  • Jessica for giving us a puppy at a time when we were seeking something to uplift our spirits and bring joy into our lives.

Reflecting on 2023, there are likely other moments and gestures that have missed. I want to you to know that I am thankful for each and every one of you, appreciating the support you offered during the challenges of the past year. Your contributions, no matter how small, have made a meaningful impact, and I am truly grateful for your presence in my life.

Read More of the journal titled "2023 Reflections and Gratitude"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Kevin Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Kevin's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Leave a comment of support for Kevin

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top