Life Update

[Bryan]

 I’m not really sure where to start, but I need to let a few things out. I’m not one to post my issues on regular social media outlets at all, but I feel safe here. I’m a very private person and prefer to keep it that way, but what has been going on honestly has me in pretty rough shape.

About 3-4 weeks ago my son let us know that he had been experiencing a lot of abdominal cramping and back pain. He said it had been going on for a couple of months and felt like something was pushing into his back. We thought perhaps, it was the bed or the way he was sleeping because some days were better than others, but we were mistaken.  Fast forward a couple of weeks, he got himself coverage and was able to be seen. We were hoping it was something simple, but they found a mass on his tailbone and then a couple of days ago, we found out it was cancerous.

So, he has Osteosarcoma. Thankfully the mass is only about an inch in size and not much has spread at all. The doctors feel quite positive about this, and after he goes through surgery Friday, he will be going on an oral based medication to fight off the rest of it. The doctors think they can remove 90-95% with the surgery and believe the medication will take care of the rest.

But the truth is, I’m heartbroken and scared. I don’t know how to handle all of this. What do you do when you find out your own child is suffering from a disease like this? I’m trying to stay positive, but keep going back and forth. I’m fine for a while and then I break down. He’s only 25 and should not be experiencing this. I am confident he has a strength to get through it, but that doesn’t change how frightening it is.

I haven’t talked to many people about it at all and I probably won’t. I just don’t like bringing other people in. I think this situation is one of the reasons I felt pulled back to the Temple and want to bring it back to life. Some of it has to do with a strong need to keep myself busy right now, but for the first time in a long time, I actually have time to work on a few things. I just feel bad for being absent for so long.

Anyway, that’s my current story. Like I said, he has surgery Friday morning and then we will go from there. I’m going down to see him early next week, so at least I’m looking forward to that. It’ll be nice to spend some time together.

All in all, I still don’t know how to handle all of this and maintain my composure, but all I can do right now is take a lesson from him and stay as positive as possible.

[Bryan]

Thanks, Els. I appreciate that.

[Elspeth]

Sending all the very best wishes for a full, and swift recovery for your son.

[Linda Mann]

Most likely radiation, which is actually easier on you, then the chemo.  Whoever is driving, and this is important, make sure there is something he can throw up into.  Radiation on the spine sometimes has that effect.  After the first time I was always prepared.  Let me know how things go.

[Arachnifauna]

That's good news...so happy everything went well..and safe travels to you. Hugs.

[Bryan]

Thanks, Linda

As an update, he went through surgery this morning and is already back home. He's pretty sore and has another scan next week. He's going to start his treatment too, but might have to do something other than the oral route. We don't know yet. I'm just glad he's back home. 

I'm leaving to go down there Monday, so will be there for at least a week and a half to two weeks.

[Arachnifauna]

 Maybe some Home Healthcare even. You can do it for however long he needs.

[Linda Mann]

Someone needs to be with him, you or his wife, with docs appointments, and keep a notebook for paper given, and write down questions you have.  Always ask staff and docs questions. My late husband hated when I did this.  He kept telling me I should be quiet, of course that didn't stop me.  I asked about meds, side effects, different ways to approach cancer.  Nurses are better at answering these, I have found.  Docs have so many patients, they run from one to the next.  Nurses are always there, they see what really goes on.  

     He should be able to qualify for rehab in his home, or at rehab.  He will need THC or the gummies to help with nausea, even with oral meds.

Your Monthly Gift Gives Hope | American Cancer Society

Almost all cancer bills can be underwritten.  Start here, talk on phone and have paper and pen to write stuff down.  This will help with rehab, services, ways to pay bills, etc.  It's what I did.

Holler if you need anything.

[Bryan]

Thanks, Bill. I appreciate that and you're right. It is all we have. 

[Bill Walker]

My prayers are with you and your son! In times like these faith is all you have.

[Arachnifauna]

You are very welcome. Take care 🙂