How I'll Win This Cancer Battle

First things first. Bob- I'm praying for you. Many of you know I have stage 4 cancer in my neck having metastasized from my tongue. The prognosis is really quite good, but getting there will be beyond difficult. Next Friday, I have every one of my teeth pulled so the decay is minimized post radiation treatment. The next week I will have a feeding tube inserted through my belly since I won't be able to swallow after a few weeks into the chemo/radio period. This scares the hell out of me: I want to make sure that my cancer surgeon understands all the issues and the 2 solid years of rny healing don't get compromised. Also, will they prepare a vitamin/mineral mixture to pump into me? I may have my RNY surgeon call him. Please, if you have any ideas or experiences, please share them this weekend. This 7 week Ch/Ra therapy will start in mid September. I'll then heal through late November and December. Neck surgery will follow in January. I may get my teeth in Dec. or Jan. I hope to be back on all eight cylinders by early March. Since the cancer has progressed the "big guns" will be employed. UK's Markey Center will provide services. We've met some incredible and caring folks throughout the 2 months of diagnosis and treatment planning. They must have taken lessons from y'all!!! Dave, becoming the new, improved Gumbi!!!

Dave, My heart goes out to you man. I had an uncle that went through what you are about to under take.  It is a tough road but he got through it and lived another 5 years before he died of other conditions.  He was glad he did it and enjoyed those remaining years with family outings and such. Keep us posted when you fell like it and know we will be here, waiting for updates and anything we can do to help.  Proud of your positive attitude and going after this head-on.  The Lance Armstrong book about his battle (I think its the "Its Not About the Bike"  one; not sure without looking it up) was inspriational.   Remember, Bravery  and Courage is not about not being scared, it is about being scared as hell but getting the job done anyway.  You are one brave dude in my book.  

Hey Dx - Help me out on this one if I'm wrong........but.......... I believe that your Bariatric surgeon will likely instruct them to insert the feeding tube into the "OLD" stomach that still functions for gastric secretions and such.  It should not interfere or cause any damage to the pouch.

I agree.  You truly are an inspiration.  I'm proud of your attitude and drive.  My prayers go out to you and your family.  Based on your attitude and drive you will beat this thing. All my best, Brian

Dave, I'm saddened that you have another tough battle to fight after fighting all of the previous ones.  Hang tough, keep the faith, give it 100% and win this one like you have won the others.  To be frank, cancer is a pretty scary word and Stage 4 is even scarier but it can still be cured with aggressive treatment (like you're getting into) in many cases;  you will be one of those "many", buddy. At least your dental bills will be minimal in the future.  I'm pulling hard for you, pal.  Take care. Mike

Dave, So sorry to here about this setback, it sounds like you really have a solid plan in place...You will defeat this, you will!  We'll be here for you every step of the way. Good luck man!

Dave, I too am praying for you. My stepdad just had cancer surgery yesterday and did great. I know you too will do the same. Hang tough...Kathleen

Wow Dave. You've got quite a row to hoe there. My families thoughts and prayers will be with you throughout.

Sounds like a good, solid plan. (Albeit, grueling) You have your work cut out for you, but you're up to it. Your strong, informed, and motivated. Git-r-done! DD  

Dave - I got one thing to say Brother: KICK THAT FREAKIN' CANCER'S AZZ!  Prayers and Best Wishes!
CF