Wednesday, April 6, 2011

A Bump in the Road

In January, Jessica Blaylock (my masseuse) found a lump on my leg. I waited a month before I saw my physician. She referred me to Dr. Vetto, a surgical oncologist, who ordered an MRI - then a biopsy - then I waited two weeks for results.

I had hoped it would be a lipoma but on March 28th, I found out I had cancer. The diagnosis is stage 2, soft tissue sarcoma. The tumor is 6.7 cm.

Sarcoma is a rare cancer that affects about 10,000 people each year. There are 50 different types of sarcomas. The good news - it is caught early, it has not metastasized and Oregon Health and Science University specializes in treating sarcomas. Aside from the tumor, I am the healthiest I have been in 10 years; I ran two marathons in the last two years. I am well-prepared to deal with this "bump in the road." I will go through 6 cycles of chemotherapy, radiation treatment and surgery.

I appreciate the supportive thoughts, prayers and positive energy that everyone has sent to me and my family. This unwelcomed guest is on its way out of my life.

5 comments:

  1. You can do this Mike! You are in better shape than most people I know. With your health and humor, you are well armed to defeat this. Know that you have a trusty team in your corner who are ready - willing - and able to provide any assistance you need along the way. We love you!
    xoxoxoxo

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  2. You've proven how strong and determined you are many times over. Roger and I are there for you with all our love, prayers, good thoughts and evergies coming your way. I know there is a bright ray of healing light around you 24/7 just because of who you are as a person. Love you honey!

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  3. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I know you have a wonderful support system, but please know you can call on me any time for any thing. I will be there.

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  4. We're sending positive energy your way from Washington. Stay strong and positive, as is your nature.

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  5. Dear Mike and Julie and Rylan and Jacqueline, we are there with you, too! Each morning I do a meditation for you, thinking about all the strong things (including strong-hearted things) you have done in your life, and how that is just momentum for getting over this bump in the road. You´re da man! Sending you love and added strength every single day, Carmen and Jennie

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