Mike’s Story

Site created on November 4, 2018

In October 2018, Mike was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer (adenocarcinoma) with metastasis to several lymph nodes, one area in the left hip bone, and 5 areas in the brain. Although there is no cure, Dr. Raid Aljumaily from the Stephenson Cancer Center in Oklahoma City has recommended a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation for the purpose of prolonging life by preventing the cancer from growing and spreading while maintaining a good quality of life.  Initial treatment will include infusions of Carboplatin (Paraplatin), Pemetrexed (Alimta), and Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) every 3 weeks with one gamma-knife  procedure (radiosurgery) to the head. The battle plan may be modified once biomarker testing on his tumor tissue has resulted out and his first PET/CT and brain MRI has been performed after beginning treatment. 

Newest Update

Journal entry by Charlotte May

Mike had a follow up visit with Dr. Aljumaily today. After reviewing his scans with a radiologist, the area in his upper left lobe was deemed to be inflammation and not cancer progression. Some areas of cancer have gotten so small they are no longer measurable on imaging! Because of this, he did not have a PET/CT performed. Mike is receiving steroids for the inflammation and is taking a much enjoyed "chemo-holiday" in order to enjoy the rest of the holiday season. No treatment until 1/6/19 and his next set of routine scans will be 1/22/19.

We are incredibly thankful for so many things, including:
- Mike can breathe so much better now
- He can eat and taste food 
- More time
- The freedom to celebrate Jesus with family and friends
- A medical team that caught this and acted quickly
- A God who is both good and kind during all of the different roller coaster of emotions
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Mike Stay Connected to Family and Friends

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

Comments Hide comments

Show Your Support

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

SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top