I have spent many hours in head and neck waiting rooms over the years, waiting to be called back into the exam room. While admittedly on the outside looking in, I cannot help but notice what other head and neck cancer patients appear to be dealing with, particularly quality of life issues. This also helps me realize how fortunate I am.
Having said of all of that, it is difficult to write the following. I had a biopsy performed on May 11, because I was concerned with some intra-oral changes. The biopsy was positive for squamous cell carcinoma. The CT on May 16 showed a large tumor extending into, or at least very, very close to the maxillary sinus. During my visit with Dr. Loree, my H&N surgeon, and also with the oncology team, treatment options were discussed. My wife, Dr. Beth Reilly was with me for this visit. I have decided to begin with immunotherapy and chemotherapy. We both believe this to be the most appropriate plan. I had my mediport placed on Tuesday, May 30. My first infusion is on Monday, June 5. Three rounds are planned, with the last infusion on Monday, July 17. A rather aggressive surgery is likely after the immuno/chemo is finished. The surgery will leave me with a large surgically induced defect in my mouth, one that will require an large obturator (removable) to close the defect.
I am sure that none of us would ever wish a cancer diagnosis upon anyone. I am also sure that if you receive a cancer diagnosis, and IF you are fortunate enough to emerge on the other end as a cancer survivor (huge if), and finally, if you allow yourself to realize that a cancer diagnosis can in fact bring gifts along with it, there is “the gift of cancer.” I know without question that cancer has enriched my life in ways I never would have dreamed possible.
At this early stage of the journey, I still plan to ride this year. I don't know how realistic it is, but I will ride if at all possible. Even if I cannot ride this year, the fundraising efforts will not stop.
This year I am riding in honor of Caitlin Pietz. Please click on the link below to learn more about this amazing woman, someone I am so proud to call my friend.
https://www.empirestateride.com/breast-cancer-caitlin-pietz-story/
https://give.roswellpark.org/site/TR/SpecialEvents/General?px=1012735&pg=personal&fr_id=1810
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