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View Full Version : **UPDATE 4/29** In Need of Prayers



HndrdPrcnt
11-14-2006, 08:08 PM
Intercot Friends -

I am writing to all of you in need of prayer. In early October I returned from the most amazing trip to WDW. It was truly a trip that can only be described as having God's hands all over it. Unfortunately, what we returned to was life changing.

Before I had left for the trip, I had gone in to the doctor with some complaints of "flu-like" symptoms that were not going away. Test after test led to yet other tests. Finally, right before leaving, I had one more test called an E.R.C.P. I told my doctor not to contact me while I was on my trip and set up an appointment with him for right after I returned.

My wife and I went to the doctor upon our return to be told that I had pancreatic cancer and had 6 - 12 months to live. We were in shock and I immediately had to lay down to keep from passing out. We asked what options we had, but my doctor told me that I should go home and "enjoy the time you have left with your family".

Well, I did not take this so well and I was not going to take this as the final word. We went to an oncologist who shed a little light on our situation telling us that he wanted to run more blood tests and also have me do another test called an OctreoScan. At the same time, we researched for pancreatic cancer specialists and found one at UC Davis. We made an appointment to see him for once we got the results of the OctreoScan.

Good news!! It was found that I have a much more rare of pancreatic cancer that only about 5% of people with pancreatic cancer get - a neuroendocrine pancreatic cancer. This form is still serious, but yet treatable through a radical surgery where the head of my pancreas, my gall bladder, about 1/4 of my stomach, my duodeum, lymphnodes around my pancreas and a few other parts will all be taken out and then my entire digestive tract will be reconstructed. It is an 8-hour procedure and it scares the living hee-bee-geebies out of me. However, with my faith in God, I know that I will get through it.

To learn more of this or to send some words of encouragement, you can check out my home page that is listed on my profile.

I appreciate your support & prayers!!

God Bless!

SurferStitch
11-14-2006, 08:17 PM
Oh my goodness!!

While you still have something very serious, I'm so glad to hear it is much more treatable. I'm so sorry you had to go through the shock of hearing such terrible news. At least you didn't stop there, and you pursued other answers. Good for you!!

Best of luck! You will be in my prayers. :angel:

mamacatnv
11-14-2006, 08:20 PM
To my neighbor to the West:

My prayers are with you and my God's hand guide the Surgeons.

Here is some :pixie: :pixie: since that never seems to hurt either.

Jeff
11-14-2006, 08:28 PM
I will keep you in my prayers.
God bless you!

Darbylew
11-14-2006, 08:42 PM
Here comes some prayers and pixie dust from Florida.
:pixie: :pixie: :angel:

MsMin
11-14-2006, 08:48 PM
It sounds like you have what you need, a loving family, friends, faith and hope. I will keep you and yours in my prayers while you fight this battle. While I am saddened by the news I'm hopeful that you can beat this.
:pixie: sending a little southern angel :angel: to help watch over you. Do keep in touch. :hug: to you and yours :pixie:

KEYONNAH
11-14-2006, 08:50 PM
I'll keep you in my prayers. Ifeel bad that I've been worrying about my problems. This makes me realize that my problems are trivial compared to your situation. Just keep yourfaith in God. He can do miracles if you believe.

TiggeRia
11-14-2006, 09:02 PM
Sending lots of prayers to you and your family. Please keep us updated.

twanner
11-14-2006, 09:10 PM
Sending prayers to you and your family.

pogo
11-14-2006, 09:32 PM
God bless you my friend and your family for having to deal with this. I work with a lot of people with Cancer and you have all the things needed to survive and thrive.

First you have a wonderful faith for when things really get tough.

Second you have a beautiful family for the moral support you will need.

Third you have a great support network of friends to help your family through this.

Fourth you have your Intercot family !

You will have many more trips to WDW with your family because of your faith, family and friends will lift you up and see you through this. :D

MissStyles
11-14-2006, 09:49 PM
just keep thinking positive.............it's amazing what your thoughts can create. you will certainly be in my thoughts........... :tink:

LizLovesDiz
11-14-2006, 10:05 PM
Your faith is what will keep you going ! I just prayed for you and for your family,God Blees You All !!!

Beast_fanatic
11-14-2006, 11:02 PM
Good luck with the surgery and lots of :pixie: on the way for a complete recovery!

amd780
11-14-2006, 11:08 PM
May God send an :angel: to watch over you. Your story brought tears to my eyes! Please know that you and your family will be in my prayers :hug:

Mousefever
11-14-2006, 11:10 PM
I'm keeping you in my prayers. God bless you and your family and good luck with your surgery.

conorsmom2000
11-14-2006, 11:47 PM
First you have a wonderful faith for when things really get tough.

Second you have a beautiful family for the moral support you will need.

Third you have a great support network of friends to help your family through this.

Fourth you have your Intercot family !
Pogo is right - with your faith, family and friends by your side, you will get through this. I've been lucky enough to see your awesome family opening the Magic Kingdom - I know what a special bunch you are! :thumbsup: You will be in my thoughts and prayers - much pixie dust headed your way :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: . Please keep us posted on how you are and we are here whenever you need us! :hug:

Melanie
11-14-2006, 11:56 PM
My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. :pixie:

The Bookseller
11-15-2006, 12:22 AM
Holy COW!!!!

Talk about flipping a quarter and seeing it land on the edge!

I tell you right now, someone found a way to send you the mightiest speck of pixie dust that I ever saw! :D

Here's the good news: Due to the vain industry of plastic surgery, your operation looks like a gastric bypass with extras. Those are routine operations run by surgerons who are experienced in them. It beats the early meeting with the reaper.

Buddy, you got it all. You got faith, a great family and bleeding edge medical technology on your side. Just as an extra, I would like to send you hope, thoughts and :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: .
Please keep us informed.

Dsnygirl
11-15-2006, 02:36 AM
John, you will be in my prayers, and the prayers of my family... what a difficult and frightening time for you - but your faith has carried you strongly this far, and I believe it will carry you through to healing, as well. The power of prayer is amazing.
I was really surprised when I saw your post, as I am having a CT scan this AM for some suspicious findings R/T my pancreas... I am three years older than you, and have two little girls, too... your pictures brought tears to my eyes.
I pray that you will be well soon - that we both will rely on the God we serve to bring us through - I don't know what the results of my CT will be, but I hope that if they are anything like what you are going through, that I will handle it with the grace and faith you have shown - you are an inspiration. God bless you and your family.

Carol
11-15-2006, 06:24 AM
My portion of the INTERCOT prayer chain is intact. Best of luck with the surgery and your recovery. Please check in from time to time to let us know how you are doing. :pixie::pixie:

Jeri Lynn
11-15-2006, 06:55 AM
Prayers and Pixie Dust from Massachusetts for your upcoming surgery and recovery. Intercot prayer is pretty powerful and we all wish you the best!

Jeremy
11-15-2006, 07:53 AM
We will be praying for you and your Family.
:pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

CanadianWDWFan
11-15-2006, 08:12 AM
John,

As you know you have always been in my thoughts and prayers. You will NEVER be alone, you will always have family and friends standing by you. Your faith is what guides you and supports you. Now you have the Intercot community here for support as well.

Keep strong my friend.

mymickeymouse
11-15-2006, 08:46 AM
you are being prayed for and thought of. I am finishing nursing school, so i have a little knowledge of your situation. i am glad you found someone to help you. just remember and NEVER forget, our Lord sent you to that website, let you find that surgeon and discover that possibility.cancer is a horrible, frigthening disease; that being said, remember God will never put more on you than you can stand.God bless you, brother. pray, keep your chin up and always live each day with your family as if it were your last, illness or not.

DizNee143
11-15-2006, 08:54 AM
Oh my...thank goodness you went for another opinion (sp?)...that is some wonderful news for you..that it can be treated and what-not..please please keep us updated!! prayers and pixie dust are on the way!!

:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

lovewalt
11-15-2006, 09:08 AM
Lots of Pixie Dust and Positive Thoughts are heading your way ! :pixie:

BrerSchultzy
11-15-2006, 09:14 AM
Wow. You have the determination, you have the friends and family, you have the fight, and you have our prayers and support. :pixie: :pixie: God bless you even more!

mickeys_princess_mom
11-15-2006, 09:14 AM
Another link in the chain of prayers and pixiedust coming your way! :pixie::pixie:

Mickey'sGirl
11-15-2006, 09:33 AM
John -- You are strong and brave, and have an unfailing faith that will see you through. You, Jen and the girls have been and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that your story will give encouragement to others -- and that it gives you additional comfort to share it. I am so glad that you posted this on Intercot. I strongly feel that this is a very caring and giving community, and the thoughts and prayers of your friends and "family" here will hopefully lift you up even more. Stay strong John -- we have a date in California that we need to get to! :mickey:

ChipDale
11-15-2006, 09:36 AM
:pixie: Good luck with your surgery. :pixie:

RedSoxFan
11-15-2006, 09:37 AM
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless.

sunlyon
11-15-2006, 09:57 AM
Prayers for you and your family. I am glad you didn't let them tell you before your trip... God gave you a wonderful restful time with your wife before the life-changing news. May God guide your surgeon's hands in this procedure and I pray that you heal quickly.

:pixie: :pixie: to you!

tiggers_1
11-15-2006, 10:06 AM
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

DisneyWhirled
11-15-2006, 01:37 PM
God Bless You and your family!! We are praying for you!

Nascfan
11-15-2006, 03:45 PM
Thank goodness you went for a second opinion! You and your family are very much in my prayers and I'm sending loads of :pixie: along to you.
Keep the faith and wonderful outlook that you have and all will work out wonderfully.

vizsla
11-16-2006, 04:36 AM
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family through this difficult time. :pixie:

Tinkermom
11-16-2006, 10:56 AM
Prayers for a complete healing and for strength and comfort for you and your family. I pray also that your surgery and recovery goes well. God will be with you through it all. Stay strong my friend!

Blessings to you and your family,

~Lisa

DVC2004
11-16-2006, 11:35 AM
Sorry, I have been away. You will bei n my thoughts and prayers. Be strong and don't ever give up!

DisneyDudet
11-16-2006, 02:31 PM
Well, I have to say that this is a lesson learned that you should always get a second opinion! We are so glad you did! Is the surgery a Whipple? It sounds like it is a little more involved, but it seems as if your knowledge of everything is great.

I will be praying and thinking of you. We all are waiting anxiously for more good news!

disneydrmr
11-16-2006, 02:58 PM
Wow, you will be in my prayers. I believe STRONGLY that God is bigger than ALL our problems and He will be there for you! Keep your faith and trust in Him. Fill yourself with bible verses on healing and faith. And ALWAYS remember - only GOD knows how long we have on this Earth, no doctor or anyone else can tell us how long we have to live. So again, look to Him thru this. Keep us informed on your treatment process. Our God is an awesome God and He will move mountains on our behalf! You are in my thoughts and prayers!

rhonhod
11-16-2006, 06:58 PM
You are in my family's thoughts and prayers. :pixie:

mrsgaribaldi
11-16-2006, 11:16 PM
My very strongest :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: headed your way and I will keep you in my prayers until you tell us you are cancer free..:pixie: :pixie:

HndrdPrcnt
11-18-2006, 03:04 AM
Thanks to everyone for all of your kind words. A lot of you have ask that I keep you posted on my progress. Well, you can check out my profile and then look at my home page. That is the place to stay posted. I will keep this page udated as well.

Beach Club Babe
11-18-2006, 03:26 PM
Sending all the prayers and Pixie Dust that I can muster! God bless you as you fight this terrible disease!

Piglet822
11-18-2006, 04:58 PM
More prayers and :pixie: coming your way. You can BEAT this!!!!!!!!! :hug:

MNNHFLTX
11-18-2006, 08:27 PM
Sending you loads of Texas :pixie:. Having a Whipple procedure is understandably a scary thing, but you have a beautiful family (thank you for sharing your homepage) and many friends that will be pulling for you. You and your family will be in my prayers.

Mcbkaitlyn
11-19-2006, 12:43 PM
My prayers and good thought are with you and your family :hug: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:
Please keep us posted

ElenitaB
11-22-2006, 01:06 AM
John, there are fewer experiences more frightening than first getting a cancer diagnosis. But it does sound like you're getting a handle on the situation and have done what needs to be done, and are taking action instead of passively sitting around waiting for a doctor's prediction to become reality. We are NOT statistics, but people!

I'm sending you a PM and also truckloads of :pixie:! Get out there and fight those :thedolls: Much strength to you, fellow warrior!

faline
11-22-2006, 05:20 AM
:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

You will be in my thoughts.

Tynkerbelle
11-22-2006, 10:32 AM
God bless you and your family - I will keep you in my prayers.

Cinderelley
11-23-2006, 09:41 AM
After reading parts of your journal, all I can say is "wow". What an inspiration you are. I added you to our prayer list at church. I didn't think you would mind. I work in a geriatrics hospital where 50 year old patients are considered the pediatric patient of the night, and have had a couple of patients who had the Whipple procedure when they were younger. Obviously, they lived to a ripe old age. I'm sure you will do the same.

Your pictures turned out great too. You have a beautiful family!

Dsnygirl
11-27-2006, 03:40 PM
Many of you may recall a post by one of our members, John, (who goes by '"HndrdPrcnt") a few weeks ago, asking for prayer for a life-threatening diagnosis of pancreatic cancer he had recently received. The drs. had given him 6-12 months to live, but further study showed that he has a form of pancreatic cancer that only about 5% of patients get, and that a procedure, called the Whipple Procedure, could potentially cure him.

I wanted to ask everyone to send pixie dust and prayers his way today, and tomorrow especially, as he undergoes this surgery in the morning- it is very invasive, and the recovery time is long - but if it goes well, he could be cancer-free after further treatments. He is young, with a beautiful young family, and I'm sure they could use our prayers and the magical :magic: Intercot pixie dust tonight and tomorrow as they go through what must be a very frightening time.

Thanks everyone!! :)

disneydrmr
11-27-2006, 03:55 PM
Thoughts, prayers and pixie dust from Ohio! Please let us know how it all goes.

MsMin
11-27-2006, 04:24 PM
Sending super :pixie: from the deep south. Keeping him and his family in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time :angel:

DizNee143
11-27-2006, 04:35 PM
sending as much prayers and pixie dust from jersey!!
i really hope it all goes ok for him!!! :mickey:

:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

offwego
11-27-2006, 04:36 PM
Sending more prayers and pixie dust!

ElenitaB
11-27-2006, 04:59 PM
Sending more prayers and pixie dust John's way.

Intercot pixie dust is mighty powerful! So here are a few doses (no IV required):
:pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

daparish
11-27-2006, 08:29 PM
More prayers and pixie dust coming from Louisiana.

murphy1
11-27-2006, 08:48 PM
I'll say some prayers for you. I had cancer cells in my thyroid and they were all removed. The day I had my surgery, there was a volunteer who sat and prayed with me, I swear God just knew to send her and I got through the whole thing. I still have a 50% chance of the other side of my thyroid developing this, but it has been 10 years and I am doing well. Keep the faith!!

grammie
11-27-2006, 09:22 PM
My prayers are with you and your family. May God Bless.

mrsgaribaldi
11-28-2006, 02:04 AM
More prayers and very strong :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: on the way for you. I'm sure that you will beat this.

The Bookseller
11-28-2006, 07:55 AM
This one is a big call. Even if the pixie dust alerady acted on our friend by allowing the surgery to take place, we all believe he need more.


:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

Let's hope for a great success in the surgical room.

Tinkerfreak
11-28-2006, 07:55 AM
Pixie dust from Maine along with lots of prayers.

Mickey'sGirl
11-28-2006, 10:00 AM
Extra special :pixie: and prayers John. Keep strong! I am also sending special dust for Jen, Ashley and Hayley. I am sure that you are all looking forward to putting this behind you! :mickey:

SBETigg
11-28-2006, 10:15 AM
My thoughts and best wishes to John and family. :pixie:

brownie
11-28-2006, 10:47 AM
We'll be praying that everything goes well and you have a quick and complete recovery. :angel:

CanadianWDWFan
11-28-2006, 03:49 PM
Thanks for updating this thread Blythe! :thumbsup: I was going to do something for him today, but we have been without an internet connection since Saturday.

I was talking to John last night and he is VERY upbeat about what lies ahead for him. He is strong in his faith and it is this and the strength of his family that will get him through this. I would personally like to thank each and everyone of you for your prayers and :pixie: on behalf of John.

John keep strong my friend, you will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

F.Y.I. John's homepage will continue to be updated by his cousin.

Bethanymouse
11-28-2006, 04:04 PM
Thank God you went for a second opinion! I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

DisneyDudet
11-28-2006, 06:59 PM
From John's cousin's posts on his journal, it seems that, so far, there is plenty of good news! (weird how I almost got to watch a pancreactomy today... I would know exactly what he was going through!) It was said that the cancer didn't seem to spread beyond the pancreas! Thats great news.

Lets all pray that the rest of the news is great. He has a few more bumps in the road to deal with, but he's a fighter!

CanadianWDWFan
11-28-2006, 08:24 PM
Thanks DisneyDudet! :thumbsup:

I was going to post an update. But you beat me to it. John is now on the road to recovery. Good news indeed.

conorsmom2000
11-28-2006, 09:07 PM
Thanks so much for the update - that's wonderful news! I've been thinking of John all day.

Dsnygirl
11-28-2006, 09:11 PM
:thumbsup: Thanks so much for keeping things updated - he sure seems to be blessed so far! He is in our prayers and thoughts... Way to go, John - keep the faith!! We're all pulling for you!! :grouphug: :)

Tinkermom
11-28-2006, 09:11 PM
I too have been checking in on John's site. I was so glad to hear his surgery went well! Many at my church have prayed for John today. We will continue to pray for a speedy recovery and for strength, comfort and peace for John and his family.

Stay strong John! God is with you always!

Philippians 4:13

~Lisa

weswerx
11-28-2006, 09:43 PM
Prayers and :pixie: heading your way.

ElenitaB
11-28-2006, 10:59 PM
John, here's some :pixie: for a quick recovery and strength for the road ahead!

The Bookseller
11-28-2006, 11:23 PM
:fworks:YAY!!!:fworks:
:fworks:JOHN GOT THROUGHT!!! :fworks:
This is some great news! Glad to know that John pulled-it out like a champ! Even if the toughest part is behind now, here's some :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: for a nice, smooth recovery.

Melanie
11-28-2006, 11:30 PM
:pixie: for a speedy recovery. Sounds like things went very nicely. That's great news! :joy:

DisneyDudet
11-28-2006, 11:59 PM
Just so everyone knows what John has to overcome, the pancreas secretes insulin, so, since he no longer has his, he has diabetes now. He will be insulin dependent, but millions of people are, its just a new thing he'll hafta learn and work with. Thats the hardest part.

There are also some other issues, but I won't put them on here. He has them posted in his journal, so all who would like to read about them, you can visit there.

He sounds like he's doing well!

mrsgaribaldi
11-29-2006, 06:34 AM
Great news!!!! :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: and prayers for a speedy recovery:mickey:

Mickey'sGirl
11-29-2006, 09:51 AM
John's sister, nurse Shelley has posted a comment in the guestbook on his site. They are all very encouraged and excited at John's success so far....Shelley says that he is already cracking jokes. Way to go John! You and your family continue in my thoughts! :pixie:

mickeyfan2001
11-29-2006, 09:56 AM
Sending lots of prayers to you and your family. Please keep us updated. And heres a bit of :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

tinkerbellybutton
11-29-2006, 09:58 AM
Sending tons of prayers and pixie dust :pixie: You and you family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.

amorillo
11-29-2006, 10:12 AM
Just sending some more :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: for a speedy recovery! So glad to hear that everything went well yesterday! You & your family are in our thoughts & prayers, John! :grouphug:

Ms.Disney
11-29-2006, 10:14 AM
:pixie: You will be in our prayers :pixie:

poohmom787
11-29-2006, 02:22 PM
From one Northern Californian to another, you are in my thoughts and prayers. I know from experience that UC Davis is a wonderful and very progressive hospital. You have one of the very best teams in the US treating you. Keep your faith and family close to your heart. Remember that a positve attitude and prayer are key to recovery. From all of the replies, I can tell that you will have a host of people praying for you. Good luck and lots of pixie dust for you.

:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

Nascfan
11-29-2006, 04:12 PM
Continuing this link in the prayer chain and sending more :pixie:

Hopefully the recover will be speedy!

Noah's Helper
11-29-2006, 10:55 PM
John,

More prayers coming your way for a speedy recovery, and for the adjustments the surgery will require. Also, praises that the surgery went well.

Mickey'sGirl
12-17-2006, 08:20 AM
I just wanted to share with you that John is now at home continuing his recovery. Please continue to keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers! :pixie:

Dsnygirl
12-18-2006, 03:08 AM
:D SO glad he is home... lots of thoughts, prayers and :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: headed his way!!

disneydeb
12-18-2006, 04:10 AM
God bless you with a speedy and FULL recovery!

dlpmikki
12-19-2006, 04:10 AM
So glad to hear you have made it home in time for Christmas. Our prayers join with everyone else in wishing you godspeed in your recovery.

mrsgaribaldi
12-19-2006, 06:10 AM
I am so glad that your will be home for the holidays. More :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: and prayers on the way for your recovery. I know you will have wonderful holidays at home.

ElenitaB
12-19-2006, 10:08 AM
I've been checking in on John's CaringBridge page. I'm so glad that he's home from the hospital. :pixie: to him and his family! I hope that 2007 will find him fully recovered from his surgery and continuing to live a joyful life.

HndrdPrcnt
12-20-2006, 12:44 PM
Intercot Friends -
I am happy to report that after a very complex surgery and 3 following procedures, I am home from the hospital. You may remember that I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2006. I was first told that I had 6-12 months to live and that I needed to go home to get my affairs in order.

I have been blessed by God to live in an area that has UCD Medical Center with many pancreatic cancer specialists. I was told that I was a candidate for a procedure called a Whipple procedure. So, in November I went in to UC Davis Medical Center and had my procedure. The doctor ended up finding cancer throughout my pancreas and ended up having to take out my entire pancreas which has left me as a diabetic for the remainder of my life (no big deal considering the alternatives). I later had 3 more procedures while in the hospital but after 19 days, I was finally sent home!

I am now at home and am doing all that I can to recover. It has been a long road and continues to be so. However, I am at home with my wife and children to celebrate Christmas with. We have so much to be thankful for. First of all, for how much God has been so apparent in all of this. God has blessed me with such a wonderful medical team, a huge support group of family and friends, and also a wonderful church family.

Thank you to all of you who have been praying and sending your well wishes. You can stay up to date with my progress and get a better idea of what I have been going through on my home page from my profile. Since we can't mention web sites in posts, do check out my profile and see my home page - go check it out, I would love to hear from you.

God bless each and every one of you! I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and happy New Year. I beg of you to celebrate Christmas this year for its true meaning - the birth of a Savior who is here to save each and every one of us.

Happy Holidays!

disneydrmr
12-20-2006, 12:53 PM
How very wonderful to hear from you and to know that you have come thru! God is great and good (all the time) and He has truly been with you and your family throughout all this! Christmas will definitly have a whole new meaning to you this year! Thank you for updating us! And I pray for your continued recovery! May God continue to bless you and may this Christmas season be filled with many happy times for you and your family!

Kags1200
12-20-2006, 12:55 PM
Good for you!! So happy to hear your 'Good report' & your wonderful attitude during all this!
God Bless you & yours as you recover! What a wonderful way to start off 2007!

Wonderful Holidays to you & Remember the reason for the Season!! Karen

Sunshine1010
12-20-2006, 12:56 PM
I am so happy for you...as well as happy for your family/friends.

What stage were you diagnosed as?

SBETigg
12-20-2006, 01:00 PM
Amazing, truly amazing, what they can do now and so glad you're able to report and tell us about it. Best wishes for your good health and a wonderful holiday for you and yours.

Ms.Disney
12-20-2006, 01:04 PM
That is great news!

DVC2004
12-20-2006, 02:03 PM
Thank you for the update. I am so happy to hear you are recovering and will continue to pray that things only get better. Each day truly is a gift! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

poohluva
12-20-2006, 02:05 PM
Pixie Dust and Prayers on their way from NH!!

Nascfan
12-20-2006, 02:16 PM
This is such wonderful news! You continue to be in our prayers as you recover. May God bless you and your family.

ElenitaB
12-20-2006, 02:22 PM
John, may you continued to be blessed! Here's a ton of :pixie: for you and your family, friends and support community.

It took my own medical challenges to discover that the true meaning of joy that goes far beyond what we wish each other on Christmas cards. Here's wishing you true peace and joy!

The Bookseller
12-20-2006, 02:41 PM
John, congratulations you got throught some tough times. I am glad to hear that your faith helped you to get throught it.

Now that you are home, I guess the only thing left for me to say is Merry Christmas to you and your family. May you live a long and love-filled life.

Here's some :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: for a full and pain-free recovery safe at home.

KarenP
12-20-2006, 03:10 PM
I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers!

CanadianWDWFan
12-20-2006, 03:12 PM
Good to see you up and around John! Glad to have you back online. Lots :pixie: for your recovery. God bless you and your family.

disneycouple2004
12-20-2006, 03:41 PM
BIG prayers coming to you from your neighbor in Texas..where everything is bigger..good luck and God Bless you and yours..i feel your faith in God will prevail in your time of need ... :pixie:

DisneyorBust
12-20-2006, 04:09 PM
Will be keeping you in my prayers. Stories like your stress the importance of getting 2nd opinions for any serious medical conditions. Good luck!

RedSoxFan
12-20-2006, 06:59 PM
This is wonderful news. May you and your family have a blessed holiday season.

mickeyfan2001
12-20-2006, 07:14 PM
That is great news. I will keep you in my prayers for a great recovery...Merry Christmas to you. I'm so glad you get to spend it with your family...

TexasPrincessAurora
12-20-2006, 08:01 PM
My prayers go out to you and your family. Just remember God does work miracles...

luvdash
12-20-2006, 09:27 PM
What great news!!! I'm so happy for you. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Jeff
12-20-2006, 09:34 PM
Glad to hear you are home and recovering. I will continue to pray for your full recovery! :thumbsup:

princessgirls
12-20-2006, 09:52 PM
I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Although your journey is going to be a long one, your faith in God, and the power of prayer and caring people will carry you through.

Be Strong and FIGHT!!!

Julie

Melanie
12-20-2006, 10:08 PM
Continued prayers and :pixie: for your recovery. :)

Beast_fanatic
12-20-2006, 11:14 PM
Very happy to hear your wonderful news! Continued :pixie: on the way for a complete recovery! And, Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year!

tinkerbellybutton
12-21-2006, 03:39 AM
It's great to see you up and around!!! What a wonderful Christmas present, to be home and on the road to recovery! I'll continue to keep you in my prayers. :pixie: Sending more pixie dust while you recover. God bless and I hope that you and your family have the best holidays ever!

Dsnygirl
12-26-2006, 11:47 AM
:mickey: John, I have been following along on your website, and have been so thankful to hear how well you are doing - I can only imagine how hard the recovery has been, and still is, but thank God (literally!) that you are home now, with your beautiful family, and can celebrate with them... you seem to have a wonderful group of supportive friends, as well, and I can only imagine how much they have helped, too!
Good luck and God's blessings as you continue to recover - you have been in our prayers, and will continue to be. Have a WONDERFUL New Year's!! :newyear:

disneydeb
12-26-2006, 12:43 PM
I'm happy to hear the good news! Continued recovery is my prayer for you. God bless!

Tinkermom
01-08-2007, 09:34 AM
Hi Everyone,

John's cousin Jeff had asked me to post an update for everyone here at Intercot. John is back in the hospital with a serious infection. He will be having surgery to check the placement of a tube in his belly. The doctors want to be sure it is not the source of the infection. Please pray that they get this infection under control quickly and for minimal pain.

Jeff also wanted me to let you all know of a spaghetti dinner that they are having as a fundraiser. It will be held on Saturday 1/27. Please go to John's Caring Bridge webpage for more information! You can get there by clicking on John's Icot name (HndrdPrcnt) and going to his home page.

Here we go again...
01-08-2007, 10:24 AM
Lisa,
I was just on John's home page reading about this and came to post my well wishes. It looks like he is having a very hard time right now.

Please let the family know that our prayers are with him through this difficult time. Keep us posted please.

Marilyn Michetti
01-08-2007, 12:25 PM
Pixie dust doesn't do it for this. Real prayer is what you want.

Just remember this simple little encouragement.

God knows
God cares
God Can

He holds the whole universe in place, but knows when a sparrow falls, and He loves you VERY much.

You are on my "list". - the everyday one.

disneydrmr
01-08-2007, 12:50 PM
Saying a prayer for him even as I type. Wish I could attend the spaghetti dinner fund raiser, but it's a bit of a commute, so I'll be praying for it's success!

TooGoofy
01-08-2007, 02:38 PM
Many prayers for John and his beautiful family! Please keep us informed.

Dsnygirl
01-08-2007, 05:40 PM
Thanks for the update for everyone - prayers are being sent John's way, and for his family, too, as I'm sure this is a really hard time for them. Our very best goes out to them today....

DVC2004
01-08-2007, 05:44 PM
More prayers on thier way. Thank you for the update.

The Bookseller
01-08-2007, 09:40 PM
Yikes! Post-surgery infection! This is one sad turn of events...

My hopes of a prompt recovery to John. He came from so far, I hope this will pass fast. He deserves some rest away from worries.

HndrdPrcnt
03-03-2007, 08:34 AM
Friends -

Well, it has been quite a while since I have updated you as to my status and it has been a long road that I have been walking. The great news is that I have God walking beside me for most of the journey, that is, when he wasn't carrying me!!

My return to the hospital in January for the infection that I had gotten (the VRE virus) was not a fun one. I was there for another couple weeks and during that time, my incision from my surgery was weakened from the virus and ended up opening in one area. It was a very scary experience, but we got through it.

Since the middle of January I have been home recovering from my surgery, the virus, and the opening of the incision (which ended up being 2 openings before I went home). My wife had to learn to pack the openings with gauge. She has been so strong for me through all of this and has really been a true warrior for my recovery.

I have had a number of doctor appointments and I go back in mid-March to run more tests to find out if, in fact, there is no more cancer remaining in me. All the signs so far look good, but we need to do more extensive testing to confirm. Even then, I will have to undergo annual testing for 5 years to make sure the cancer has not returned.

While I am here recovering though, I have the coolest thing happening. CanadianWDWFan, Brian, and his 8-year-old son Harry are getting on a plane from Toronto and they are going to come out to California to meet me and my family. How great is that?? We have not yet met, but have formed a great friendship through intercot and now we will finally meet in less than a week from now. Brian and Harry have never been to Northern California, so we are taking them to 2 of the most popular No. CA destinations (as featured in Soarin'), San Francisco and Yosemite. It will be a great road trip and a lot of fun over the course of 3 days. My family and I are looking so forward to their visit. In addition to Brian and I becoming friends through intercot, his son has also become pen-pals with my 8-year-old daughter writing back and forth about their love for Disney. So, it should be a fun visit.

In other news, a little more serious, and a reason to ask for more prayers - we just found out that our younger daughter is 95% blind in her left eye. What started as a routine 5-year-old check up, turned in to some devastating news. The doctor said that her eye has been this way since she was born and that she has never known anything different, but as you can imagine, we were devastated. We are now researching pediatric opthamologists and we are taking her in for numerous second and third opinions to find out what can be done to give her corrected sight in her left eye. So, please be in prayer that we find the right doctor and that they are able to do something for her to be able to see from her left eye.

While I am asking for prayer, I also ask that you pray for my continued recovery. I still have issues with eating and am still having pain in my incision. It has gotten much, much better, but I still have a ways to go. I am scheduled to return to work on April 1st and I just ask that you pray that this will be a reality because I am really looking to returning to work and having some normality put back in my life.

Thank you for your prayers. You can also check out my personal profile and get my homepage from there which will give you my complete story and will update you with all that is going on with me, my recovery, and what others are doing to help us.

God Bless each and every one of you and thank you for all of your prayers thus far!

Carol
03-03-2007, 08:55 AM
It's great to 'see' you, John! Continued prayers for your recovery, your daughter's sight and family. :pixie::pixie:

Please stop in when you are feeling up to it. Enjoy your visit with Brian & Harry. :)

Jeff
03-03-2007, 08:56 AM
Thanks for the update.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
God bless you!

mrsgaribaldi
03-03-2007, 08:58 AM
I'm so happy that you are doing so well John . I'm sorry for your daughter. I'm sending you loads of :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: for your continued recovery and for you DD. I hope that there is something that can be done to help her.:mickey:

ElenitaB
03-03-2007, 09:42 AM
John, you and your family have never left my prayers. I'm so glad that you've taken a turn to healing once again after finding some of those darn speedbumps (been there, done that and have the scars to prove it ;) ). Though the trials are hard, maintaining your focus on the end goal (renewed health) helps enormously and you are doing that! God bless!

Enjoy your visit with Brian and Harry!

DVC2004
03-03-2007, 09:57 AM
You have never left my prayers as well. I am glad to hear you are doing better and I know you will continue to do so. You are a true inspiration- your stregnth and faith is awesome! Thank you for the update and know we are all praying for you.:)

Jeri Lynn
03-03-2007, 11:07 AM
Thank you for your update John...continued prayers for you and your daughter towards full recovery. Your entire family has been in my thoughts.

ftwildernesskid
03-03-2007, 04:00 PM
You and your family are in my prayers. Blessings to you all.

Ms.Disney
03-03-2007, 09:24 PM
:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: It's great to hear you are doing better. Sorry to hear about your DD I am more than 60% blind in one eye since birth, I'm 21 years old and it hasnt affected my life in any major way I still see fine out of one eye and I have never known any different. I hope you find a great Dr. for her. More prayers and well wishes on the way :mickey:

The Bookseller
03-04-2007, 11:25 AM
Since day one, you have never left my thoughts John. You came from a long way and I can understand your need for a timely resolve of this mess. So far so good, you are getting throught all this like a champion.

I am saddened by the news about your daughter. I am in peaace with the idea that it was dectected early (As far as we can call 5 years old early) and that you are checking our for solutions. The medical field is in a constand renewal and new cures keep on poping right and left. Let's hope one of them will find your way.

Here's some :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: for closure, hope and recovery for you and your daughter.

Christine
03-04-2007, 11:31 AM
John, I continue to pray for your health and recovery, and I will add your daughter's vision needs too. I pray for your entire family as you have all been through so much.

How absolutely wonderful that Brian and Harry are coming for a visit! Love among family AND friends is a true sign of God's presence.

Keep the faith!!!

Here we go again...
03-05-2007, 11:25 PM
Hi John!
I have not been on line for a couple of weeks and was actually looking for news on how you are doing. I am glad that I found a post by you.

It is wonderful that Brian and Harry are coming to visit. I can tell you, there are some amazing people on this site and they always seem to show up at just the right time. I hope you are feeling well when they are there and can really enjoy the visit.

Your daughter will be in my prayers also. I know this hit you hard, but remember what the doctor said. This is all she has ever known. If she starts to see you worry, she will begin to think there is something "wrong" with her.

Hope to talk to you again soon!

LibertyTreeGal
03-05-2007, 11:43 PM
Praying for you here in New Mexico -- I am grateful you live that close to my alma mater, UCD -- you are in great hands with them. I grew up in Calaveras County, just a stone's throw away and I will get my mom's church praying over your situation.

God bless you all!

disneydeb
03-06-2007, 06:53 AM
The very best of luck to you as you go through these surgeries. God bless you and your family.
Take care and report back in as often as you are able. Prayers and Pixie dust headed your way. :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

Nascfan
03-06-2007, 10:58 AM
I'm very happy to hear about your progress. Your daughter is certainly in our prayers also, sending loads of :pixie: for her too.

It's so neat that Brian and Harry are coming to visit you. I'm sure you all will have a wonderful time!

Dsnygirl
03-08-2007, 03:56 AM
:mickey: John, it's so good to see you on I'cot again! I've been off for a few weeks, and it was great to get back on and see your post! I'm so glad things are continuing to look up for you, and you've been in our thoughts and prayers ever since you first posted - so it's awesome to see how far you've come, and how God has held you up through everything.

We will be praying for your beautiful daughter - we saw your family pic on your website - it's amazing what kids will think is normal, and we'll be praying that the dr's will find a way to help her eyesight!

That's awesome that Brian & Harry are coming out to visit - they seem like part of a very special family. It's amazing what great people we have here on this website, isn't it??

Good luck as you get ready to head back to work - you will continue to be in our prayers, as will your whole family, as I'm sure it will be a continued adjustment back to "normal"! But how wonderful that must seem!

Keep looking up!
:thumbsup:

Chescat
03-12-2007, 08:45 PM
Glad to hear you are doing better and sorry to hear about your daughter. The flipside in your daughters case was, at least they didn't find an growths or anything in her eye that would be an added burdeon to everything else you are going through. Hopefully they can do something about the problem.

As far as making friends on Intercot. I have made so many friends here that I have feel blessed to have found this place. I've meet many intercotees at DLR and with our love of disney, we just have so much fun and become close friends going . A few of us have had some rough times lately and we just have pulled together and supported each other like we've known each other for years!

You are a very remarkable person John, and continued good health for you. You are in my thoughts.

aprilisis
03-13-2007, 09:38 AM
I am sorry that I missed your first post. It is good to know that you are doing better & I wish you continued good health. I wanted to send some :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: for your daughter, too!

hoop de do
03-13-2007, 10:04 AM
I am sending you the most powerful Pixie Dust I can muster. I am so glad to hear you are feeling better and that you will be able to return to work soon. You are in our prayers here in PA and also throughout the INTERCOT family. Please keep us posted and GOD Bless.
:tink: :pixie: :tink: :pixie:

Diznee4Me
03-13-2007, 10:32 AM
You will be in our prayers and keep us updated with your progress!

offwego
03-13-2007, 11:13 AM
Thank you for the update.

More Prayers on the way that things will keep moving in the right direction for you and your daughter as well.

Please keep us in the loop when you have the time.

MsMin
03-13-2007, 12:23 PM
Sending more :pixie: for your continued recovery.
So sorry to hear about your dd5. sending :pixie: for your little princess too.

kakn7294
03-13-2007, 01:45 PM
I'm so happy to hear that you are doing better! VRE is one tough infection - glad you made it through! I'm sorry to hear about your daughter's eyesight. Hopefully something can be done but if not she has already learned to cope with it and it obviously never bothered her. Most people who know me don't know that I can't hear in my right ear - it's been that way since my first birthday. Since this is all she's ever known, it's "normal" to her as my hearing is to me. Remember that God will never allow you to face more than you can handle - stay strong! Enjoy your visit with Brian and his son - he sounds like a wonderful friend!

Dawn,DeniseandDiane
03-14-2007, 12:43 AM
We are so happy that you are doing better. Thanks for the update. We will keep you and your precious daughter in our prayers. You have blessed us with your faith, strength and courage through this trial you are going through. You are an encouragement to so many. How wonderful to get the chance to meet your new friends face to face! That is truly awesome! Take care, and we look forward to some more good news soon regarding future healing for you and your daughter.

Dawn,Denise&Diane:wave: :wave: :wave:

PAYROLL PRINCESS
03-14-2007, 09:44 PM
On top of everything you are and have gone through, now you get the news about your daughter. I hope you can find someone who can help her and that your recovery keeps on getting better.:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:
Prayers and pixie dust for both of you.

HndrdPrcnt
03-30-2007, 01:04 AM
Hey Everyone!

Thanks to all of you who have posted such wonderful messages and who have been keeping me, my daughter, and my entire family in your thoughts and prayers!! We appreciate all of you so much!

I wanted to update you with the latest on what is going on in our family. First of all, DD5, Haley, is now in glasses and we will start patching her right eye 3 hours a day in 6 weeks (after she has gotten used to the glasses). The opthamologist is confident that we can strengthen her left eye and improve her sight from the eye greatly. Praise God for that!!

Secondly, Brian (CanadianWDWFan) and his DS8, Harry, came out for their visit. We had an amazing time. I really enjoyed bringing the attraction Soarin' to life for them by taking them to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and to Yosemite Valley. We only had 3 days to do sightseeing, so we took in as much as we could, but these were our big road trips. We had such a blast!! The coolest thing is that Harry and my DDs got along so well and Brian and I acted as though we had known each other our entire lives. Very cool!!

The last bit of news is not nearly as fun to report on. We have just received the results of some blood tests that my oncologist has been running and all the tests are indicating that there is more cancer residing somewhere within my body. So, it looks like the surgery was not successful in removing all of the cancer afterall. So, I will be going in for some more extensive testing, an OctreoScan, which will pinpoint exactly where the cancer is residing within my body. From there, we will then determine if I will be going in for another surgery, or will have to undergo radiation or chemotherapy. The biggest hope is that the doctor will still be able to tell me that the cancer remains to be curable, and not simply treatable. Curable means that we can get rid of it, treatable meaning that we can't get rid of it but can merely treat it until it finally becomes terminal.

So, please pray that the upcoming tests will pinpoint exactly where the remaining cancer is. Please pray that it will be curable and that the doc will be able to remove all of the cancer from my body. I am still a young pup with two DDs that need a daddy. So, please pray that I can be here for them as they grow to become awesome Godly women.

Thanks for your prayers!!

mrsgaribaldi
03-30-2007, 03:28 AM
Great news about your daughter John. I'm so glad she is doing well. As for you, we will just have to keep sending you prayers and :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: There is no doubt in my mind that you are going to be around for them for years and years to come:thumbsup: I keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.

Carol
03-30-2007, 07:54 AM
More pixie dust and prayers headed West, John. :pixie::pixie:

merlinmagic4
03-30-2007, 07:57 AM
Some healing :pixie: :pixie: for you. I hope you get good news.

kakn7294
03-30-2007, 08:40 AM
John, this is just another temporary setback - you will beat this thing! We're all so determined that you do! Here's much more pixie dust :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: and you'll be in my thoughts and prayers. I'm so glad your visit with Brian went well - I saw some pictures on his homepage! I'm also glad to hear that your DD has a good prognosis - if she's anything like you, she's a strong girl who will get through this like a little trooper! Best wishes for you all!

CanadianWDWFan
03-30-2007, 08:45 AM
Hey John,

Thanks for the great time you showed us in California, Harry and I sure enjoyed the time that we spent with you and your family.. You guys maked us feel like a part of your family. I really appreciate that. I am so glad to see you are keeping upbeat with all that is going on. You are always in my thoughts and Prayers.

Those pictures use sent me of Haley and her new glasses are just precious! She suits those frames!:cool:

Say :hi: to all of your Girls for me and Harry! Talk to you soon.

DVC2004
03-30-2007, 09:03 AM
John, continued prayers and pixie dust for you and your family.

offwego
03-30-2007, 09:03 AM
John, I'm glad things seem to be working out four your daughter.

I'll be praying for you that the tests pinpoint the cancer and your Dr. is able to deal with it quickly.

Dsnygirl
03-30-2007, 09:06 AM
John, I am sending as many prayers and as much :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: your way as I can - that the results of your scan will not only pinpoint the cancer, but show it to be something the doctors can easily find and erradicate, once and for all!! You have been so strong, and your faith is unmoveable - you have a wonderful, supportive family and network of friends - I have no doubt in my mind that you can beat this. We have an awesome God who reveals Himself in the most amazing ways - as I'm sure you have seen more closely than many of us.

I'm glad to hear that Haley is doing so well w/ her glasses, and that the prognosis for her vision is so good - that's wonderful news. If she is anything like her daddy, she must be quite a trooper.

God bless you - you will continue to be in our prayers and thoughts.:thumbsup:

Nascfan
03-30-2007, 09:41 AM
John, I'm sure they'll be able to find this cancer and eradicate from your body, but to be sure, I'm sending tons of :pixie: your way.
I'm glad your daughter is taking to her glasses and should be doing fine.
You and your family remain in my prayers. I'm sure you'll beat this with God's help.

murphy1
03-30-2007, 09:46 AM
Hi John, you and your family are definitey in my prayers. I am going through waiting on a biopsy too, so I know these things are very difficult. Two of my girls wear glasses and it has been great for them. We have been going to a ped opth. since they were both little, one of them since 18 months. I will pray that the cancer is eradicated and for your dr. to heal you. Stay strong! California has some top docs, so you are in good hands.

conorsmom2000
03-30-2007, 09:54 AM
John, you and your family continue to be in my thoughts and prayers! :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: This may be another bump in the road but I truly believe that your daughters will have their Dad with them for many, many years!

I'm so glad that the trip with Brian and Harry was such a blast! :thumbsup:

I also wanted to share with you that my twin brother is 95% blind in one eye. They don't know if he was born that way or if it was from an accident when he was three. Back then, they didn't really try to strengthen the eye in any way, but unless he told you about it, you would never know he didn't have perfect vision. Like your daughter, it's all he's really known and because of that, it doesn't affect his daily life really. Hopefully since they caught your daughters condition so young they will be able to make some improvements to her vision! :thumbsup:

Christine
03-30-2007, 10:02 AM
John, thank you for keeping us updated on you and Haley! I am so glad she is doing well with her glasses, and I pray that the doctors and tests will be able to find out exactly where that cancer is and cure you completely!

Take care and keep the faith!!

RedSoxFan
03-30-2007, 10:24 AM
John, more prayers for you and your family. Great news about your daughter.

magicman
03-30-2007, 10:43 AM
I'm praying for you & your family.

pogo
03-30-2007, 10:52 AM
John, you are and always have been in my prayers. God bless. :D

DizNee143
03-30-2007, 12:04 PM
your in my prayers and im gonna send some pixie dust too!!! please keep us updated!! and i hope next time you update us everything will be good news!!! :mickey:


:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

Scar
03-30-2007, 02:28 PM
Hi John, God bless you and your family and know that God’s will is always for the best.

Everything, and I mean everything you have described about your daughter’s eye describes me. I was born in 1965 and there really wasn’t much they could do back then except the patch and glasses. I would assume there is much more hope available today. I just wanted to assure you, and your daughter, that even if it is not corrected that she will be fine. Living my life with sight in one eye has been all I’ve ever known and I get along just great (although my baseball career has been hampered by it.;)) I can honestly say today, at 41 years of age, if some doctor told me there was a chance he could fix it, I'd probably say no.

Good luck.:thumbsup:

SodaPopMGK
03-30-2007, 04:30 PM
John,

My family and I will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Sending :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: and positive thoughts for a cure for you.

Dixie Springs
03-30-2007, 05:11 PM
I'm praying for you and your family John.

MsMin
03-30-2007, 05:42 PM
Sending more :pixie: and prayers. I do beleive that God has a plan for you. Stay confident and positive that you will get through this. :angel:

HndrdPrcnt
03-30-2007, 06:06 PM
Thanks to everyone for your very kind words of encouragement! You guys are the best!! :rocks:

Noah's Helper
03-30-2007, 08:55 PM
:angel: More prayers for you and your family headed your way, John.

ElenitaB
04-01-2007, 01:27 PM
John, best of luck with your tests. You continue to be in my prayers.

daparish
04-01-2007, 02:38 PM
Continued prayers for you, your daughter and your entire family. Your unwavering faith through all your trials and tribulations is truly an inspiration to us all. God bless.

BelleCiavo
04-01-2007, 11:59 PM
(((John))),
I have just read through all the posts concerning your illness, I had no idea. I praise God that you know him and are able to lean on him for support. I will pray for you, your family, and all the doctors; may the Greatest Physician of all guide their hands and lead their steps. May you and your family experience the fullest measure of His grace.
In His Grip,
Karen

HndrdPrcnt
04-29-2007, 08:45 PM
Hey Friends -

I am sorry that it has been so long since I have updated you as to my progress and health. I have been extremely busy with returning to work and unfortunately, returning to the hospital quite often for more rounds of tests.

Some rounds of blood tests indicated that the cancer may be back so I was sent in for an OctreoScan which confirmed that the cancer is back. The scan showed that it was in the general area of my stomach, liver or lymphnodes. So on Friday I went in for a CAT Scan to pinpoint the location of the cancer. We have been playing the waiting game all weekend and we have a doctor's appointment tomorrow morning to get the results of the CAT Scan.

So, this is where I have to totally put this in to God's hands and to ask for my friends and family to pray!! God did not cause me to get cancer, but He did know that I would get it. He must also believe that I am strong enough to handle it because he declares in His Word that He will not let us endure anything that we are not strong enough to handle.

I will update everyone tomorrow after I get the results! Thanks in advance for your prayers!

You can also check out my home page to get the latest updates as well!

God Bless!!

Melanie
04-29-2007, 08:51 PM
John, I am very, very sorry to hear of your setback. Continued prayers for your treatment and progress. :pixie:

Ms.Disney
04-29-2007, 08:53 PM
I am so sorry to hear that the cancer is back. You are in our prayers.

God Bless

Dsnygirl
04-29-2007, 08:58 PM
John, I will be praying for you and your family as you meet with your doctors tomorrow... I have been following your story on your home page, but wanted you to know here as well that you are in our family's prayers, and we are hoping all the best for you. You are right when you say God does not give us a heavier burden than we can handle - He must find you to be extraordinarily strong, and is definitely using you through this. God bless you and your beautiful family - we will be thinking of you and praying for you tomorrow. :)

kakn7294
04-29-2007, 09:12 PM
John, I will definately be praying for you. I was hoping all this time that no news was good news. I'm so sorry that you have to go through this. Keep up your positive attitude and faith in God - it goes a long way in our medical care! Please update us when you can.

The Bookseller
04-29-2007, 09:23 PM
John, I followed your troubles since day one an I can assure you that my deepest wishes for an healthy recovery soon. You got a solid bugger there but you are trully getting throught like a pro.

Here's all the :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: I can find in the hope of a good, clear and conclusive diagnostic.

ElenitaB
04-29-2007, 09:24 PM
John, glad that your wait for results isn't too long and that tomorrow you'll know better what you are facing. Once you know and with a treatment plan in hand, you'll be ready to move forward. This is not an easy road, but with faith and the support of friends and loved ones, it is one that can be walked (as you already know).

God bless you, your wife and your DDs. You all continue to be in my prayers.

Jeff
04-29-2007, 09:31 PM
John,
I will continue to pray for you!

BelleCiavo
04-29-2007, 10:12 PM
Offering many prayers on your behalf brother. Thank you for the update.
Karen

disneydeb
04-29-2007, 10:13 PM
Continued prayers headed your way. Keep up the fight.

RedSoxFan
04-29-2007, 10:20 PM
I am so sorry to hear that your cancer is back. My prayers are with you and your family. God Bless.

Tinkermom
04-29-2007, 10:23 PM
John,

Lifting a prayer as I type this. I pray for strength, comfort and healing. God tells us to ask Him for anything. I am being bold and asking for a COMPLETE HEALING! I pray that the doctors will give you a course of action that will lead you to a cancer free life. Please let us know what you find out tomorrow. I will also be following on your Caring Bridge site.

MsMin
04-29-2007, 10:37 PM
Keeping you in my prayers. :angel:

Bethis26fan
04-29-2007, 10:51 PM
I'll put you on my prayer list. Just keep your faith in God and know he has a plan.

mrsgaribaldi
04-30-2007, 07:28 AM
I'm so sorry for the bad news John. Your faith during this difficult time is very uplifting and inspiring to me and I'm sure to others. I will keep you and your family in my prayers even more now.

Here we go again...
04-30-2007, 07:40 AM
So, this is where I have to totally put this in to God's hands and to ask for my friends and family to pray!! God did not cause me to get cancer, but He did know that I would get it. He must also believe that I am strong enough to handle it because he declares in His Word that He will not let us endure anything that we are not strong enough to handle.

I will update everyone tomorrow after I get the results! Thanks in advance for your prayers!

You can also check out my home page to get the latest updates as well!

God Bless!!

John, we will be praying for you. Keep your faith because you know that no matter what happens HE has a plan for you. You have touched all of our lives.

Jimenyfan
04-30-2007, 07:53 AM
John,

Prayers are being said for you right now. You have a remarkable faith in our Lord and through him everything is possible. I pray that the Dr.s you have also rely on our God for there strength and that the are led by our lord when they are treating you.

Amy

merlinmagic4
04-30-2007, 07:57 AM
I am sorry to hear your news and I hope the doctor's report is as good as it can be. Please let us know how the appointment goes today.

DVC2004
04-30-2007, 08:21 AM
John, I am so sorry for the setback. You and your family continue to be in my prayers.

offwego
04-30-2007, 08:45 AM
John,

Sorry for this setback, prayers for you and your family for a full recovery.

Christine
04-30-2007, 08:49 AM
John, I am so sorry that the cancer has returned. I will continue to keep you and your family in my prayers!

DizNee143
04-30-2007, 09:06 AM
noooo!! im sooo sorry its back...extra pixie dust on the way for you!!!!

:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

HndrdPrcnt
04-30-2007, 10:21 AM
Thanks to everyone for your kind words. We are getting ready to leave for the appointment right now. I will update you here and on my homepage later today.

aprilisis
04-30-2007, 12:24 PM
I have just read all of your posts for the first time today. You are such a strong person with great faith. You really are an inspiration. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts. I hope you make a full recovery.
:pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie: :pixie:

murphy1
04-30-2007, 01:03 PM
Was thinking about you and your family over the weekend. Will continue to pray for you.

HndrdPrcnt
04-30-2007, 02:58 PM
First of all, thank you to everyone for your continued prayers and support!! God is hearing them and He has given me so much patience and calmness that it is amazing!

So, we are home from the doctor's appointment and as I sit to update all of you with what we learned, I sit here in utter confusion. Was it good news?? bad news?? I am really not sure in all reality. However, all I can really do is just give God praise for every single day that I have here on Earth with my family and friends. There are no guarantees on life, not for any one of us. So we should all be giving thanks for our every day.

The Cat Scan results came back inconclusive. What this means is that while the blood tests have indicated that the cancer is back, the cancer is not currently large enough in any part of my body to pinpoint its exact location.

So now what? We asked the same question and Dr. Bold gave us a few options. First, he recommended that we get a second opinion. He said that he recommended that we meet with a medical oncologist to discuss the possibility of chemotherapy treatments. While the endocrine tumor is not known for reacting to traditional chemotherapy, there are new drugs that have shown some positive results. The chemotherapy may actually be able to kill off any and all cancer that is in my body thus extinguishing the need for a second surgery.

The second option is to wait for 3 months and to re-run the OctreoScan and CatScan tests to look for any changes in the results of those tests. With that they would then have a better feel as to where the cancer is growing and would be able to surgically remove it. However, Dr. Bold did say that until they can clearly see where the cancer is growing and they can see some sort of mass, he would not feel comfortable for going in for any kind of exploratory surgery.

So, while it is good that the cancer is not large enough to be seen or operated on, the bad side to that is that the cancer can be spreading throughout my body without being large enough in any one area to be seen. The concern there would be that when it is big enough to be seen that it has already attached itself to a number of organs and this is why the idea of chemotherapy was brought forward.

So, we will meet with the medical oncologist next Monday to see what she has to say. Dr. Bold did say that we did not need to stay within the UC Davis system for our 2nd opinion, but both Jen and I feel so comfortable with this hospital and all of the people who have cared for me, that we would not want to leave the UC Davis team.

If I have learned one thing through all of this, things don't happen all that fast when it comes to finding out results and getting things taken care of. I am the type that just wants to find out what is wrong and then get it fixed. However, this is a bit more complicated and so I guess we had just better get used to the hurry up and wait game.

Please know that it is your prayers and God's promises that is getting me through all of this. I so appreciate all of your prayers and support!

offwego
04-30-2007, 03:15 PM
I'm not sure about good or bad...but I do think it's much better then some news could have been.

And your trust in your Dr's is a good thing too. (as of course is your faith in God).

We will all keep praying that they will pinpoint the cause.

crazypoohbear
04-30-2007, 04:17 PM
I am in awe of your attitude while you are dealing with all that is happening.
I pray that God continues to walk with you through this ordeal.
We will all continue to pray for a positive outcome.

BrerSchultzy
04-30-2007, 04:28 PM
I am in awe of your attitude while you are dealing with all that is happening.
I pray that God continues to walk with you through this ordeal.
We will all continue to pray for a positive outcome.

I couldn't have said it any better. You are amazing, and your faith is inspiring. My prayers are with you.

Christine
04-30-2007, 05:15 PM
John, you continue to be in my prayers, and I truly appreciate you taking the time to keep us updated, because we are all thinking of you!

MNNHFLTX
04-30-2007, 06:30 PM
Thank you for the update, John. You have some important decisions to make and I can only how difficult this all is for you and your family. You will continue to be in my prayers and thoughts. :hug:

Chescat
04-30-2007, 07:22 PM
John, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I was out of town this weekend and was just scanning the boards but not really looking. It is good news that there are not any masses and it is good when the doctors want to be aggressive and ask for second opinions.

The UC Davis doctors are very good. I had a close friend that had cancer in her brain about 10 years ago. They did wonders for her for a while when others thought she shouldn't have made it that long. She did really like her doctors there.

I have found through the years that its the frame of mind that people have that sustain them. A friend was diagnosed with cat 4 breast cancer and given 6 months. She made it 6 years and had quality of life the whole time. She took a tour of the US and visited each state and all the Canadian provinces that border US. We laughed. She grabbed the dog, had her pepper spray, cell phone and and older car and just went. We said you afraid something will happen. She said what do I have to lose!

She has always been an inspiration to me that frame of mind a lot of times does make the difference. You sound a lot like her and I believe your faith and family will get you through whatever it is that's ahead of you.

pogo
05-01-2007, 07:06 AM
John, The one thing I've learned in life is that God speaks to us every day. He walks with us and has a purpose for us. You've taken the time to listen and with all the love around you, you will prevail.

You are in our prayers every day my friend. :D

ElenitaB
05-03-2007, 03:56 PM
John, just wanted to let you know that you and your family continue in our thoughts and prayers!

mtown71
05-03-2007, 04:05 PM
I am in awe of your attitude while you are dealing with all that is happening.
I pray that God continues to walk with you through this ordeal.
We will all continue to pray for a positive outcome.

Same goes from me!!!! I will continue to pray for you & your family.