Help Burr Fight Cancer
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Suddenly, our dear friend Burr, while seeking help for back pain and a persistent cough he was experiencing was diagnosed with Stage IV Lung Cancer which had metastasized to his bones and organs. This was a devastating diagnosis for a lifelong nonsmoker who was only turning 45.
Anyone who knows Burr understands there is something very special about him. He has a vibrant energy that is contagious and makes people feel good. When we think of Burr, we see his twinkling eyes and hear his hearty laugh. We think of his joy for life, his curiosity, his passion for good food and wine, things made by hand, and for other people. He has demonstrated what it is to be a true friend by always being generous with his time and giving us support when we need it the most.
In March of this year, we watched as Burr deteriorated before our very eyes. He lost 45 pounds and was in so much pain he couldn’t do anything, eat, sleep, sit, stand or even smile. The prognosis for Burr was dire. The cancer cells invading his body are undifferentiated. Chemotherapy would be guess work. Radiation therapy would hopefully relieve the intense pain. His oncologist ran a molecular test - Burr was amazingly lucky to be in the 5% of people who can be helped by a new drug called Tarceva.
This medication has shown itself to be highly effective for his particular cancer. Over the past month there are promising signs that the medication has slowed the growth of the cancer cells and may even be shrinking the tumors. Vigilant medical care is of the utmost importance for Burr. Combining this with effective pain medication will markedly improve the quality of his life, and help him stay healthy and happy for a very long time.
Burr has not been able to go back to work. He is now spending his time doing what he loves most, making pottery and spending time with his friends and family.
Anyone who knows Burr understands there is something very special about him. He has a vibrant energy that is contagious and makes people feel good. When we think of Burr, we see his twinkling eyes and hear his hearty laugh. We think of his joy for life, his curiosity, his passion for good food and wine, things made by hand, and for other people. He has demonstrated what it is to be a true friend by always being generous with his time and giving us support when we need it the most.
In March of this year, we watched as Burr deteriorated before our very eyes. He lost 45 pounds and was in so much pain he couldn’t do anything, eat, sleep, sit, stand or even smile. The prognosis for Burr was dire. The cancer cells invading his body are undifferentiated. Chemotherapy would be guess work. Radiation therapy would hopefully relieve the intense pain. His oncologist ran a molecular test - Burr was amazingly lucky to be in the 5% of people who can be helped by a new drug called Tarceva.
This medication has shown itself to be highly effective for his particular cancer. Over the past month there are promising signs that the medication has slowed the growth of the cancer cells and may even be shrinking the tumors. Vigilant medical care is of the utmost importance for Burr. Combining this with effective pain medication will markedly improve the quality of his life, and help him stay healthy and happy for a very long time.
Burr has not been able to go back to work. He is now spending his time doing what he loves most, making pottery and spending time with his friends and family.
Organizer
Heather Kahn
Organizer
Portland, ME
