Hi Everyone,
It has been awhile since I've posted anything regarding Lenny's journey with CC. Much has happened in the past few months and at times I feel as if we are in a fog. My precious husband of nearly 23 glorious years had Whipple surgery Oct. 08, mass in distal bile duct tube was removed (stage I) and it was contained in the bile duct tube and had not spread to any other organs. We were told that Lenny was "cancer free", a "cancer survivor" and his doctor did not recommend any chemo/radiation to follow. Lenny suffered with many complications (pancreatic leaks, abcesses, infections, erosions and severe nausea, vomiting, weight loss, malnourishment, pain and dehydration). In July 09 after being re-admitted for the 11th time with same problems it was discovered that the cancer had spread to the original incision at the abdomen and 5 cancerous nodules were removed (stage IV). Sadly, because Lenny was so weak and underweight (he had lost over 35% of his body weight) chemo/radiation was not an option. A j-tube was placed for feeding 24/7 which has sustained him thus far. In Sept. 09 we were informed by another ct scan that the cancer has again spread to an area which is directly between his aorta and the superior mesenteric artery and this mass has doubled in size already. The doctor advised us that this type of cancer has a tendency to "seed" and that they may be more elsewhere but undetectable under the radar. At present, Lenny is in daily pain and much discomfort, especially in his upper and lower abdomen which radiates pain to his lower back. He is homebound most days unable to get out of bed at times. Our doctor advised Lenny to get his affairs in order and enjoy each day to the fullest while he can. We just live one day at a time....hour by hour. In spite of this horrific journey we still count our many blessings and we are thankful for every day we have together. I still believe in miracles but I also understand what we are up against and the outcome is very grim. Lenny still manages to put on a smile and his courage and faith is truly an inspiration to many. Please remember him in your prayers. He is my soulmate and I just cannot imagine my life without him.
God Bless,
Dee