Hello everyone,

I personally wanted to give you all an update on my battle with appendiceal cancer.  On Wednesday March 20th I completed my 12th chemo treatment, and on Friday March 22nd I had my second CT scan. Monday March 25th, Michelle and I met with my doctor to go over the results of the second scan.

My first CT scan was done after my third chemo treatment and much to our surprise, the treatments had helped to bring “significant shrinkage” to the cancer cells.  Michelle and I were very happy for that very good news. But the first 3 treatments were very difficult and took a toll on my overall health to the point that my doctor decided to reduce the dosage of chemo for a while.  I was so very thankful that he did, because I was in rough shape.  The last 3 we’re back to the heavy dosages, but I was in better health, and they were easier than the first 3 treatments.

The second CT scan gave us some more good news.  Once again, the treatments caused “considerable shrinkage” to the cancer cells, and my doctor felt confident enough to put me on what they call maintenance chemo from now on.  I will be doing this type of chemo every 2 weeks for duration of my life. The goal is to keep the cancer from growing or advancing.  They will monitor my numbers and watch for any spikes. I am still considered in stage 4, but am fortunate to have such good results from the chemo treatments. We will take any good news considering what we were facing back in August.

I could write pages and pages thanking everyone for their support, but I am going to try to keep it short. 

First, my wonderful wife Michelle. What a gift from God she is.  A true angel on earth. She has been by my side 24-7 for the last 8 months, putting up with very late nights, trips to the emergency room, trips to St. Cloud, helping me with my ileostomy bags, doing tons of laundry, keeping the right food in the house, and supporting me when things were overwhelming for me. Honey you are my ROCK…thank you so very much for…everything you do, have done, and continue to do for me.

Second, my daughter Haley. She too has been by my side each and every day since my diagnosis. Thank you honey for being there for me during my time of need. I am so very thankful for you, and so very proud of you. 

Third, to my siblings, their spouses, and their family members. The unbelievable support and unconditional love by ALL of them. I am so very grateful for each and every one of you. I am once again truly blessed beyond imagination. Thank you all very much.

Forth, Michelle’s whole family. I am so thankful to all of you for your support and concern for me. I especially want to thank Haddie and Hazel for coming to visit me in the hospital and the hand made “get well” cards they gave me. And a special shout out to Tom, who lost his battle with cancer in November. I sure miss my hunting buddy.

Fifth, to the wonderful staff at the Monticello Cancer Center. They have made my journey of chemo treatments bearable and they truly are health professionals. I can tell that they honestly care deeply about all their patients. Thank you all for what you have done and will continue to do for me.

Lastly, to the hundreds of people praying for me. From extended family members, friends, current coworkers, former coworkers, current employers, former employers, church organizations, really so very many, I wish I could personally thank you all for your concern, your prayers, and your unconditional love and support. Thank you all so very much. 

I am a true believer that God hears all our prayers. He has played a BIG part in my battle with cancer. I know he has been by my side each and every day, and even during some of my most difficult days. I felt his arms wrapped around me giving me peace that I am not fighting this alone. This journey has brought me closer to him and has solidified my belief that he is in total control. He has known me before I was even born, and he knows my future, and my trust and faith in him unwavering.

Thanks again to all and God Bless

Sincerely 

Matt

Michelle and I wish you all a Blessed and Happy Easter! ♥️