Medical Update

I heard from the surgeon at IUPUI. The news was not what I wanted to hear, but at least the tumor is operable and can be removed.

Unfortunately, they will have to remove my bladder, my nerve bundles (which effect male erectile function), possibly some muscle in the pelvic area, and possibly a section of my colon.

Since the surgery would be so drastic, they want to do a biopsy on the chance that the tumor could be treatable with chemo. This is a slim chance so I'm not getting my hopes up, I'm preparing myself mentally for the reality of how my life will change from this surgery.

I was initially upset, but now I am resolved to fight like hell. I look back on the wonderful people I met at the conversation with Lance, the RFTR 2004 and find strength from their experiences with cancer.

I'll keep my blog updated, and send out e-mails as things develop.

Unfortunately, this probably means I won't be able to be an advocate for LIVESTRONG day. I still plan on waiting to the last minute in case it works out that I can attend. I was really excited about the opportunity, if there was a way I would be there. I'll just have to do it next year.

Help with travel to Indy

We've got our flights covered!

Peloton Project - LAF Fundraising Update

Something AWESOME has happened in the last 48 hours! Recent donations have made a huge impact in my fundraising!

Current amount raised: $1,640

2005 Fundraising Goal: $7,500

I'm just $5,860.00 away from my personal goal!

I've sent personal thank you's to each donor, their contributions mean a lot to me and will make a difference for cancer survivorship!

To make a secure online donation to the Lance Armstrong Foundation in my honor click here.

LIVESTRONG --- Andrew

P.S. -- Can you tell I'm just a little excited with all the exclamation points. Reminds me of a Seinfeld episode.

Interesting article about pediatric cancer

I saw this article in USA Today It discusses the benefits and risks of treating young children with chemo and radiation. Specifically about the tough decisions parents face.

I would gladly undergo more surgery, chemo, radiation, you name it than to have to face having to see one of my children go through it. Having experienced treatment myself, it truly breaks my heart to think of a young child being put through it.

What Condition My Condition is in

Well, I met with Dr. Langerak today after he was able to consult with Dr. Einhorn/IUPUI. Looks like I'll be making a trip to Indy again for another surgery by Dr. Foster. Once they have removed it they can run a full pathology and get a final determination on what exactly we are dealing with. The people at IUPUI are literally the best when it comes to urological cancer, and I trust my medical team (Tulsa and Indy) that this is the best approach.

This surgery obviously is not on my list of things to do this summer, but there are many positives that I can focus on.

-It is in the same basic location as my previous tumors
-No organs have been compromised
-Brain is unremarkable (For once that's a good thing :)
-My chest clear
-Abdomen show physiological uptake in the liver & urinary organs (normal) NO focal area to promote malignancy
-No evidence of nodal disease in the abdomen or pelvis
-Since this is basically the same surgery as my previous two, there will be no new incisions and I'm an old pro at the recovery

My next steps are to get the CTs and PET scans to Dr. Foster. Once he has time to plan his surgery he'll schedule a date for the surgery and an appointment. At that time, I'll work out the logistics of either flying or driving to Indy, finding childcare for my three little ones, and a hotel room for Amy during the surgery. I really have been blessed with a great support system of family and friends, wonderful benefits at work, and a management team that is understanding and supportive.

As always, I'll keep updating my blog and sending out e-mails so everyone will know "What Condition My Condition is in"

LIVESTRONG -- Andrew

P.S. If there is any way possible you can bet that I'll still be in DC for LIVESTRONG day to advocate for my fellow survivors. If not I'll be there in spirit with my fellow survivors and do my best from home.

May 1st - May 8th is National Cover the Uninsured Week

http://covertheuninsuredweek.org/

Current Status

45 million uninsured Americans

8.4 million uninsured children

This directly affects the survivability of cancer patients. It is common knowledge that if cancer is detected early the survivability rates are much better. If 45 million people are uninsured, how are they going to receive proper care?

Background on the Issue in Oklahoma

701,000 people are uninsured in Oklahoma. That's 20.4% of the population. Learn more about the issue of the uninsured at covertheuninsuredweek.org.

I think the manner with which a nation treats it's poor and underprivileged is a direct reflection on that's nations character.

Hello Everybody

For all you Simpsons fans, imagine Dr. Nick for the post title.

I just wanted to say that I really appreciate all the supportive e-mails and comments I've received from my friends and family. I'm just taking it "one day at a time" right now and trying to stay focused on the positive.

My original goal of writing this blog was to give everything a view of what it is like to live as a cancer survivor. I think I have accomplished that pretty well. What surprised me was how much I have gotten out of this process as well. I've decided to start working on a book to document my experiences and lessons that I have learned. I think it will be equally rewarding for me and hopefully those who read it will learn new empathy for cancer survivors.


I'll update the blog after my doctor's appointment to let everyone know the plan.

LIVESTRONG