Grandad Geoffrey: Architect, Art Curator, historian, author, friend, father, animal lover, and grandad to 16 grandchildren including myself, has just been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.
Everything has been happening so quickly- a month ago Grandad was ‘stealing’ chocolates mischievously from Cocobel where he shares office space and his art gallery Medulla, which has hosted various artists exhibitions- now he is confined to bed.
Two weeks ago, Grandad Geoffrey went in to visit his GP to check on his osteoarthritic knee pain and was sent to do several tests. After his blood tests returned and with his history of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (20 years ago), he was sent for a PET scan.
The report concluded that his pain is due in part to metastatic involvement throughout his body: spine, ribs, sternum, right scapula, bony pelvis, femoral shafts and mandible, with at least two hepatic (Liver) metastases and bilateral pulmonary (Lungs) metastases.
This news has us all devastated.
While we do not know yet the full extent of his required testing, treatment, physiotherapy and ongoing palliative care, or their commensurate costs- we do know that they are significant.
Based on recent appointments we are expecting the initial costs (in Trinidad) will climb quickly to ~$20,000 CAD in the short term, with ongoing monthly costs for his care to the tune of ~$1500 CAD.
With the help of the amazing Dr. Garcia and her palliative care team- his pain is under control and Grandad Geoffrey is his usual bushy tailed, snarky and humorously sardonic self (I can see his pursed lips now)…the Geoffrey we all know and love- and enjoying his wine!
We are appealing to Grandad Geoffrey's closest and dearest friends and colleagues to contribute whatever able (if at all able) to help with his treatment- we are quickly and urgently trying to put a plan in place for his care.
Our family is very grateful for your support. If you are unable to support financially, please take the time to share this link and his story.
Organizer and beneficiary
Caitlin MacLean
Organizer
Scarborough, ON
Dominic MacLean
Beneficiary