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On October 7, 2019, Michael Estrada was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer and stage 4 stomach cancer. The doctors said he had a small lymph node in the stomach area and that his only hope for a cure was chemotherapy.
After being told by the first oncologist he saw that he only had a 24 month survival rate, Michael sought a second opinion. The doctor and her team that took on Michael’s case were most concerned about the stomach, because the cancer was in the wall of the stomach lining, which can spread easily. The plan was to reduce the cancerous tumor in the colon, which would mean radiation treatment. Radiation treats tumors and chemotherapy treats the cancer cells. A full treatment plan for Michael would mean both radiation and chemo. But it came with a risk - the tumor could break down causing it to spread to other areas. The doctor advised that stomach cancer cells had a higher risk of spreading with chemo as well.
Michael chose to move forward with the treatment plan recommended by the doctor. The plan was to begin radiation to reduce the size of the tumor, and remove the infected area of the colon and reattach it to his intestinal tract. This would mean wearing a temporary bag on his stomach until the colon heals. As well, he would continue chemo treatment throughout this.
Doctors decided to treat Michael with 28 days straight of chemo and radiation. Throughout the entire process, Michael held onto his faith, and never questioned the Lord as to “why me?” He went that very first day for treatment, and every day after with the exception of weekends and holidays.
His doctors were continually surprised at his positive attitude and his willingness to move forward with his treatment, even in the face of setbacks. Around the 15th day of treatment, Michael’s bottom and stomach started to blister and the skin started to peel. He was in so much pain, and couldn’t even sit comfortably. He suffered in silence, continuously praying and pushing through with faith.
At last, treatment was done! Friday, February 21st, 2020, Michael went to get his MRI and the following Tuesday his CT Scan Labs. The doctor called Michael and his wife, excited to share the news that the cancerous cells in his stomach were gone! Further, the tumor in his colon had shrunk, so they would be able to proceed with surgery! God is good!
On March 10, 2020, Michael had surgery to remove the infected section of his colon. He is getting better and recovering each day, but bills continue to pile up, as well as ordinary living expenses. Since Michael is unable to work, this has put a huge financial strain on him and his wife Gracie. He starts chemo again on April 20, 2020, and will continue to undergo treatment for the next 6 months.
They continue to hold tight to their faith, believing all things are possible through Christ our Lord. Gracie says, “Never give up, God takes care of everything when you trust and believe in him!”
Asking Michael to describe a miracle, he responded, “FAITH!”
If you can, please consider helping Michael and Gracie with bills and expenses while he’s busy recovering. Thank you all so much! God bless! We would greatly appreciate ANY donation!
#TeamMike
After being told by the first oncologist he saw that he only had a 24 month survival rate, Michael sought a second opinion. The doctor and her team that took on Michael’s case were most concerned about the stomach, because the cancer was in the wall of the stomach lining, which can spread easily. The plan was to reduce the cancerous tumor in the colon, which would mean radiation treatment. Radiation treats tumors and chemotherapy treats the cancer cells. A full treatment plan for Michael would mean both radiation and chemo. But it came with a risk - the tumor could break down causing it to spread to other areas. The doctor advised that stomach cancer cells had a higher risk of spreading with chemo as well.
Michael chose to move forward with the treatment plan recommended by the doctor. The plan was to begin radiation to reduce the size of the tumor, and remove the infected area of the colon and reattach it to his intestinal tract. This would mean wearing a temporary bag on his stomach until the colon heals. As well, he would continue chemo treatment throughout this.
Doctors decided to treat Michael with 28 days straight of chemo and radiation. Throughout the entire process, Michael held onto his faith, and never questioned the Lord as to “why me?” He went that very first day for treatment, and every day after with the exception of weekends and holidays.
His doctors were continually surprised at his positive attitude and his willingness to move forward with his treatment, even in the face of setbacks. Around the 15th day of treatment, Michael’s bottom and stomach started to blister and the skin started to peel. He was in so much pain, and couldn’t even sit comfortably. He suffered in silence, continuously praying and pushing through with faith.
At last, treatment was done! Friday, February 21st, 2020, Michael went to get his MRI and the following Tuesday his CT Scan Labs. The doctor called Michael and his wife, excited to share the news that the cancerous cells in his stomach were gone! Further, the tumor in his colon had shrunk, so they would be able to proceed with surgery! God is good!
On March 10, 2020, Michael had surgery to remove the infected section of his colon. He is getting better and recovering each day, but bills continue to pile up, as well as ordinary living expenses. Since Michael is unable to work, this has put a huge financial strain on him and his wife Gracie. He starts chemo again on April 20, 2020, and will continue to undergo treatment for the next 6 months.
They continue to hold tight to their faith, believing all things are possible through Christ our Lord. Gracie says, “Never give up, God takes care of everything when you trust and believe in him!”
Asking Michael to describe a miracle, he responded, “FAITH!”
If you can, please consider helping Michael and Gracie with bills and expenses while he’s busy recovering. Thank you all so much! God bless! We would greatly appreciate ANY donation!
#TeamMike