Lonnie’s Story

Site created on December 18, 2019

The outpouring of support has been phenomenal -almost too much to keep up with. (See journal entry #1).Thus a friend set up this 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.

The story:

On Nov 10 2019 Kelly and I returned from the trip of a lifetime, 16 days in Peru packed into an 11 pound backpack and a cross body bag. We visited Arequipa, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Chinchero, Machu Pichu, and the floating Islands of Lake Titicaca. 

Upon our return, within a week I was in major GI distress. Thinking I picked up a bug in Peru, I visited a local urgent clinic and received some antibiotics and medication for symptom relief.

Still terribly ill and with lots of abdominal pain, on 12/12 I went to the ER.  A CAT scan and variety of other tests discovered I was suffering from Colon Cancer that has metasticized to my liver.

Admitted immediately and now under the care of a whole battery of oncology specialists, a treatment plan has been devised to address the liver issues (most urgent) with 6 months (or more) chemotherapy to shrink/eliminate the liver tumors, and then surgery later to remove the colon mass.

I expect to be in the hospital a few more days as I finish the first round of chemo and they watch for side effects and tweak the chemical cocktail. 

I am blessed by the presence of so many caring and compassionate people in my life.  This site will help manage and coordinate communications and volunteer efforts going forward.

As many of you know, I have very little energy stores. So have asked for texts and uplifting memes only. Kelly has been on the phone nonstop with those who have called -I am not taking calls at this time. Hopefully the answers to many of your questions will be posted here. 

Thank you and God Bless you.

Newest Update

January 10, 2020 Livestream and service info

Journal entry by Jacquie Fernandez —

Today's Celebration of Life will be livestreamed beginning at 1:15pm CT for those who cannot attend in person. Go to http://www.youtube.com/c/LonnieVanderslice

The service will begin at 1:30pm at Unity of Kansas City North, 1000 NE Barry Rd Kansas City, MO following a 12noon lunch that is open to all. Fellowship will follow the service. Please join us in sacred community as we celebrate our dear Lonnie.
Read More of the journal titled "January 10, 2020 Livestream and service info"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Lonnie Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Lonnie'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 Lonnie

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