Update for July/August 2018

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog updates. Since my diagnosis last November, I have been greatly encouraged by all the prayers, notes of support, outpouring of gifts and expressions of love and friendship that have been shown to me and my family. Having cancer is really tough on me physically and emotionally, as well as on my family, but you have been a great encouragement to us in the midst of this journey.

Now for a little update. The summer seemed to fly by, but we were able to enjoy a lot of time together as a family making many memories. We took several trips to the beach, did a lot of fishing, and just enjoyed being together with family and friends. We were also able to have a big gathering at the beach with 25 of my family to celebrate my 43rd birthday.

Because of the kindness of friends, Jen and I were able to have an anniversary getaway at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville. We got to enjoy a spa day, have a nice dinner, and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains. Almost 20 years ago, I took Jen up to the Blue Ridge Parkway to ride and hike, and that is where I asked her to marry me. So, on the way home we hit the Blue Ridge Parkway and re-visited different spots that reminded us of that day.

On August 11, I went and had my first PET scan to see if there had been any growth or progression with the cancer. Jen and I met with my doctor on Monday, August 13 to discuss the results. We received news that we expected, but not what we wanted. The cancer has spread to my abdominal wall, liver, colon and adrenal gland. I now have a large tumor behind my belly button. This means that I now officially have stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

That afternoon Jen and I met with our pastor to talk about what we are now facing, as well as to discuss options and treatment possibilities. My doctor was honest with me and told me that my situation is “not good.” As we talked, my pastor asked me, “Well, what do you want to do?” I didn’t hesitate with my answer — “I want to go to Amsterdam.” For the past two years I have been a part of a mission team in Amsterdam, but I hadn’t made plans to go this year. But now I wanted to try to go and join the team. 

I had made the decision a couple months ago to get my passport renewed. I knew that might seem odd considering that there is some uncertainty with how much the cancer has grown and spread. But I felt like I needed to do that. I’m glad I did! Because of some incredible generosity, I was able to be a part of the mission team this year. It was such an amazing time with this team, and I was able to share my cancer story, as well as my hope in Christ with many people.

Before that trip, Reese and I took off to the Outer Banks with some of my co-workers to fish. Sometimes those trips are more about the fellowship than the fishing! We didn’t come back with a big catch, but we did return with a lot of good memories.

So, what is next for me in this cancer journey? Well, you can pray for us as we have some decisions to make. I have been invited to participate in a clinical trial. Jen and I are still weighing out our options and trying to figure out what is best for me and the family.

Other than that, we are taking it day by day. My energy level has been good most days, and I’m able to work some. Activities with the kids, church and friends keep me busy. Life has been good this summer, in spite of this cancer.

Here are some ways that you can pray for me:

• Discernment concerning the invitation to participate in the clinical trial
• Energy to maintain a normal family rhythm
• Wisdom to know how to balance my responsibility at home, work and church
• Humility to receive from others that are gracious and kind to help