Bringing it for Brian

As many of you know, Brian was diagnosed with cancer several weeks ago. As you can imagine, this journey has been unexpected for him and his family. Brian has been diagnosed with Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma. This type of cancer is rare, and typically is a salivary gland tumor. However, Brian’s cancer is not typical as it is NOT located in his salivary gland, but rather it is located in the center of his head. Surgery was performed and although considered successful, the surgery results were not as positive as we had hoped. The tumor had gotten through the bone and was sitting on the brain barrier (dura), and therefore they cannot be sure if the tumor has invaded his brain. In addition, the margins that were able to be taken show threads of the tumor throughout. The tumor is confirmed to have invaded his nerves. Due to this, Brian is now scheduled to begin chemotherapy, in addition to radiation (every day for 6 weeks), both starting in the next 2 weeks. This type of cancer, when outside of the salivary gland, has a high rate of recurrence and a high rate of spread (particularly to the bones and lungs). With all this information, the surgeon, radiation oncologist and medical oncologist have all requested a pet scan to be performed immediately to see if this cancer has already spread to other areas of his body, and to ensure the proper treatment is provided. This pet scan is necessary. Unfortunately we live in a crazy world where insurance companies can deny access to healthcare. His insurance company has denied a pet scan four times now. Peer-to-peer reviews have been done and appeals have been submitted. They are refusing to authorize the pet scan due to the “typical” nature of this type of tumor/cancer when present in the salivary gland, rather than looking at the specifics of Brian’s cancer outside of the salivary gland and why the pet scan is necessary. Brian is determined to beat this and live a long, healthy life. In order to do this, he NEEDS this pet scan as indicated by his medical team so his treatment plan can give him the opportunity to fight this with all he has. He needs this pet scan to fight this cancer so he can spend forever with his family and friends.

Brian is grateful for the support, prayers, love and friendship that he has received over the past weeks.

Sent from my iPhone