I am treatable

I spoke with my new oncologist and after reviewing my case he determined that he had several treatment options for me. I was glad that he didn't just turn me away. I think his plan, if it works, would significantly improve my health and would put me back in a position where my cancer would be more manageable and that I would be able to go back to my normal routine of going to work and doing all the things that come with being a husband and a father.

There are some risks involved. I have some tests that I have to take and pass in order to even attempt this aggressive treatment. I really don't want to go into too much detail as to what we plan to do, since I have yet to take these tests. So far, I am very impressed with the knowledge and experience that these doctors have with my specific cancer. I am also pleased with the fact that I will be able to do my treatments in Alabama. I'll be able to do my chemo treatment in same facilities that I have used in the past and recuperate in between treatments at my home. I only have to return to Texas, every few months to be evaluated and discuss the next move. My new oncologist and my long time oncologist will work in tandem during this process. I just wanted to give everyone a quick update. I'll try and provide another update just as soon as I get the results back and hopefully prepare to begin treatments.

2nd, 2nd Opinion

I just wanted to give everyone a quick update. I'm feeling pretty good. My appetite is back and I'm eating everything I can. I'm getting stronger each day. This week, I was walking for the first time in about a month.

For the most part, I've been pain free. Recently had some pain in my side (ribs). I have some medicine that is helping but I plan talk to my doctor a stronger prescription.

I was recently able to visit my relatives on my mom's side of the family.Prior to this visit, I really didn't know when I was going to get to see them again. I had a great time. I hope I'm able to visit with them again soon.

Well, in the near future, I hope to get another opinion regarding my condition. I would like everyone to continue to pray for good news. For the last three weeks, I have had a real good feeling about the whole situation.  I feel that I'm definitely in God's hands and that regardless of what the doctors say, I will be taken care of. I love my family and my friends and if there is a possibility where I can get healthy again, I definitely want to go for it. If that isn't the case though, I want to spend as much time with my family as possible.

I've really enjoyed being able to continue to work. When I'm working, being sick is the furthest thing from my mind, which is a great feeling. I really appreciate my coworkers' patience in allowing me to work in this capacity. I am blessed to work with such great people. I also wanted to tell my team members thanks for the gift last week and that you guys should be getting something from me this week ;) .

Thanks and God Bless,

Randy

P.S. - Thanks. Mrs. S. for the great brownies.

Leaving the door open

After a lot thought, research, and prayer, I decided to go on and get a second opinion from the facility in Texas. I am definitely content with being on Hospice as I am now. I was watching a sermon and the message prompted me to try and leave the door open for a miracle (not to say that a miracle can’t happen in other ways) . I have always believed that when you pray for something, you go after it with everything you have and then allow God to do the rest. That’s the way I’ve always operated. So I did some research and found that the facility in Texas has treated my cancer more than any other facility in the country. Before, I was solely wanted to go there because I heard they were the best. Now I know they are the most experienced with my cancer, whereas the previous facility I went to for a second opinion was less experienced with my type cancer. This way I know I went all out and consulted the best.

Quality of life is very important to me. Unless this facility, is pretty confident that can get me back to where I’m cancer free, I will return home without further treatment. I do not want to undergo endless chemotherapy treatments, which will slowly deteriorate my body, for little to no gain. I have no problem coming back home and continuing Hospice and enjoying life with family and friends. I also will not undergo any experimental trials that risk shortening my life in any way.

Currently, the chemotherapy I just had, has left my body, my hair is growing back, and I’m currently able to eat regular foods again (though my taste buds are slightly off). I getting stronger every day. I’m happy. After I gain more weight and the rash on my face clears, I plan to visit with family and friends. Especially my friends at my job, I really miss them. I also would like to personally thank one of my mom's co-workers who has consistently and on an almost weekly basis made me some of best cookies I have ever tasted (for over a year now). I hope to be able to meet her soon.

I already have an appointment scheduled in Texas. I don't want share dates online, but I will update everyone on how things go as soon as I can.

Thanks everyone for your thoughts and prayers.