Dear 1971 Classmates - This is the most recent post in CaringBridge from Karen about our beloved David. Please read and pray with Karen and David. Thank You.
Of all the words you don’t want to hear from scan results, progression must be the the worst. It is the opposite goal of all cancer treatments. And, especially when aggressive cancer is at play. Yet, that’s where we are. Comparative PET results between 2 cycles and 4 cycles of Killer Sunshine chemo, confirms what Dr. Paulson, David’s local oncologist thought: The chemo is being out-paced by tumor growth.
So how do you go from tumor reduction to progression in a matter of weeks - with more chemo on board? His oncologist explained it this way; initially the platinum-based chemo attacks and shrinks immature or “weak” cancer cells (reduction) but the DNA expression of other cancer cells, previously targeted with other cancer treatments, changes, and becomes resistant to the effects of chemo (progression). The PET confirms significant tumor growth, with new tumors on the warpath. In the world of Neuroendocrine Tumors, aggressive NETs are really rare. Treatments are few for reversing significant progression. The platinum-based Killer Sunshine implemented was the best tool in the toolbox for aggressive NETs, but isn’t accomplishing what we all hope and prayed for. Dr. Paulson advised hospice for David. I cannot even wrap my brain around this. Only God in his amazing faithfulness will be able to supply strength for us to walk this path. We only know how to fight, hope and push forward. This is foreign.
David is tired. His body is under attack. I cannot imagine what it feels like to be in his body right now. He’s battling fevers, nausea, fatigue and malaise. Our needs are minimal but I am so grateful we are together. The last 14 years have been so incredible in spite of the stupid cancer. Our intertwined lives are a complete love story. Honestly, cannot imagine life otherwise. We’ve spent 20 years together as newlyweds that are simply grateful every day to be together.
The one good thing life-limiting cancer brings to the table is perspective. It has enabled us to focus on what matters most. We truly have celebrated life, every day. SuperSandlinMan fills up hearts to overflowing. Not just mine. He just has that effect on everyone that knows him. I want to honor him now by simply being present. Thank you all for honoring him with your encouraging words, your prayers for peace and comfort and your love. We are blessed beyond words. And, God is faithful!
Hope and Healing forever. KAREN