Team John John

John John came into our life about 10 years ago. He instantly became part of our family and circle of friends. He is feisty, loyal, hardworking, energetic, enthusiastic, opinionated, determined, suoer-responsible, independent, considerate, flamboyant and unapologetically  exuberant! John John has always been one of the first to help when someone needs it. He puts everything else in his life aside to make a meal, set up for an event, clean, prepare, drive or take care of whatever is needed for whoever is in need. He gives and gives and expects very little. 

Since June, John John has been in and out of the hospital with unexplained abdominal pain. Last week a pathology report from a biopsy confirmed that he has pancreatic cancer. I went with him for a consultation with the oncology surgeon at ORMC to learn about the details of his diagnosis and prognosis. 

At this point, the cancer is at Stage 1, about 2 cm in size. It is located at the head of the pancreas. While pancreatic cancer is never a good thing., stage 1 and the location of the tumor means that it was caught early and is operable. He will need to undergo extensive surgery within the near few weeks to remove the tumor and surrounding area of liver, duodenum, and restructure his GI tract. It is a long complicated surgery.... at least 8 hours and a stay in intensive care for at least a week following. He will have a feeding tube and will need 24 hour support at home for at least 6-8 weeks following the surgery and will not be able to work.

Following this, chemotherapy and daily radiation will begin for an undetermined  amount of time, based on ongoing assessments of the cancer’s progression

We feel confident about the care and expertise that the Cancer Canter at Orlando Regional Medical Center is providing. The team is very supportive, knowledgeable  and comforting. Nevertheless, the road ahead for John John will be tough. He is mainly worried about his beloved fur baby pups, Toby and Bradley, as this now means he will be unable to work and pay for their food, grooming and medication. 

So many of you, my friends, share a soft place in your heart for this gregarious and jovial soul. We have shared many fun nights, moments of connection and support through tragedies and countless memories.

John John has always been the first one to respond to any call for help for any of us. Now it is our turn to return that love. I promised him that his dogs would be taken care of and their food, vet visits and medication would be  continued while he undergoes and recovers from surgery and chemo/radiation treatment. 

Please consider donating whatever amount you can to ensure that this dear friend is able to rest easy knowing that his fur babies are taken care of.