Rusty’s Story

Site created on February 10, 2024

Welcome to our CaringBridge website.  Rusty has been diagnosed with Stage 1 Renal Cell Carcinoma (Papillary Sub type) in his left kidney.  Virtually all Stage 1 kidney cancers are found incidentally, including Rusty’s.  The current plan is for a partial nephrectomy at the end of March/beginning of April.  Rusty meets with the surgeon on March 5th (update: now has an appointment for Feb 16th), and will solidify the surgery date then. We are using CaringBridge to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.

Newest Update

April 9, 2024

Journal entry by Rusty Rea —

Staples came out today!  

Thank you for all of the notes, cards, texts, financial gifts, meals, and support!!!  Hopefully this is a final update.  I got all 24 of my staples out today (I had 4 spots of 3 staples, then one big spot with 12).

The surgeon went over the pathology report and didn’t see anything concerning!  The next steps are regular screening scans every 6 months.

The past two weeks have been bumpy, but as of today I am completely pain free with all movement! I am still on a 5lb weight restriction and will be off work for at least another month.

Thank you again for walking through this with our family- we have been EXTREMELY WELL LOVED!
-Rusty

Read More of the journal titled "April 9, 2024"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Rusty Stay Connected to Family and Friends

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

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