Cancer

Men, we are very lucky guys. I've been away from the locker room action lurking for awhile. I believe very strongly in this forum and have had opportunities to meet some of you personally. I had my two year anniversary last month. I feel great but... I'm in the middle of a month long diagnosis regarding cancer. I have a sqamous carcinoma, about 5.5 centimeters, on the left side of my neck. I also have suspect tissue on my tongue. Wed. I had tissue samples taken from my throat, tongue and tonsil area. There's a 95% chance the neck growth is secondary to another in my body, potentially my tongue. At a minimum, I will have radiotherapy followed by healing then surgery over a 5 month period. If I have a primary tumor elsewhere (real potential), I'll have chemo while I receive radiotherapy. I'll be sick for awhile, but the chances of a good outcome are there. Thank God I got this now instead of 20 years prior! One of my good friends is the former Director of the Markey Cancer Center at UK which rates as Kentucky's best. He's providing great counsel. I've got "Cadillac" insurance, in addition to a cancer policy, that allows for two opinions (and treatment plans) which I''m getting. I'll analyze them with help and make decisions on one or a hybrid of both within the next month. Treatment will probably begin in Sept. so I may have the holidays to heal before surgery after the New Year. I'll beat this: after all, I'm in the best shape I've been in since my mid-thirties. I'd ask that you send light my way and keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I'll post more as my diagnosis and plans become more defined. I've had my share of scans, excisions of tissue, and needles in the neck, but it has really not been that bad: the hard stuff is coming. Colonel Dave

Thoughts and prayers are with you my friend!  You're right, you will beat it...you've come too far and have worked too hard.  In fact, all you've accomplished in your winning battle over obesity is likely God's way of preparing you for the task that lies ahead of you. Dave, you are a true southern gentleman, a great Colonel Sanders and not too bad on the dance floor.  Best wishes as you forge ahead. Keep that winning attitude...it will serve you well.  If you feel a bit down, feel free to lean on us here as we're sure to provide you with what you need whether it's a laugh, a word of encouragement or a kick in the behind. Cards Fan

Dave, I'm terribly sorry to learn of your health problems and impressed by your attitude. I'm sure I'm only one of many guys who will be thinking of you, wishing you the best, and praying for you. We'll do what we can from afar. Best to you.

hang tough my friend, we're here for ya....carbonblob

You'll be in my thoughts and prayers.  Great attitude.  You'll beat this thing without a doubt. Looking forward to hearing your good news down the road, Brian

Best wishes and good luck.  Thoughts and prayers are being sent your way.

Thoughts and prayers for sure. You're the man. You can beat it.

Dave

My thoughts and prayers go out for you and your family. BobM.

I'm in your corner, Dave. People beat cancer everyday. Why not you? Your strong, healthy, and it sounds like you have a great team behind you. All very encouraging. Time to open the "whoop-ass" and send that cancer demon packin'. DD

Dave, Thanks Heavens you’ve got the resources the throw everything at it. Do So. I have So Many Friends who are Long-Term Cancer Survivors/Victors. Know that there will countless Mississippi Prayers headed your way By Sunday Morning. Tonight you certainly have all of mine. Keep us posted and keep your spirits up While fighting through the treatments and surgeries. Best Wishes- Dx