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Over the summer of 2022 at our sanctuary on the Au Sable River, Steve began having significant difficulty swallowing food. After being very active with kids and grandkid visits and construction on the addition to the cabin, Steve’s weight began to plummet in late August. Due to our change in residence from Minnesota, we were between health insurance coverage and doctor oversight. This forced us to visit the ER in Grayling in early September because of his dehydration and malnutrition.
The ER visit revealed a large growth in his esophagus. Doctors were able to perform an endoscopy later that week. The pictures revealed the extent of the growth and blockage. Biopsy and CT scan results confirmed late stage esophageal cancer with additional spread to his gastric lymph nodes and liver. Since then we have been exploring treatment options and procedures; coordinating among multiple locations and experts.
Steve has received a few IVs to maintain hydration and metabolic stability. As of this time, Doctors are recommending a feeding tube. This will be implemented at the Traverse City Munson Health Cowell Cancer Center. Additional care recommendations include chemotherapy and radiation. Due to the cancerous spread to the liver it is highly unlikely he will receive esophageal surgery. A PET Scan will be performed on October 5th and a follow up with the oncologist is scheduled for Friday, October 7th. We’re looking forward to a productive treatment plan.
Steve is in good spirits and claims to have “excellent” mental health. His jokes remain cheesy and inappropriate. He wishes for nothing more than a large glass of ice water, however, he dreams of Burger King cheeseburgers with lettuce, tomato, and onions, with extra mayo. He has extensive plans for the addition to the cabin but is very concerned about the prospect of someone driving over the septic tank in the midst of winter. He wishes to share a beer and the beauty of the Au Sable river with everyone he knows. Cheers!
Steve had a successful surgery on his liver on Friday March 15th. The tumors on his liver had grown in the weeks waiting. This was unfortunate to hear, however the good news was that because they had grown, the surgeon was able to complete the ablation on both tumors. While in surgery, Steve had a partial lung collapse. He was quite sore afterwards, but still managed to make all of the nurses laugh.
Summer and family were able to visit for a week. "Bapa" took a few naps with the grandkids and even built up the energy to walk outside with them a few times.
He is continuing the same chemo regimen every other week, with blood work and a hydration IV each week. He will be meeting with his oncologist tomorrow.
We continue to be thankful for time together, memories made, and all of the love and support from friends!
***TOMORROW, APRIL 11th, IS STEVE'S 71st BIRTHDAY!! Send him a message or give him a call. ***
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