Help Duane and his family during his cancer diagnosis

Hi everyone,

My name is Kaity, and I am the daughter of Duane Brown, the wonderful man I am fundraising for today.

About two years ago, Duane started experiencing extreme bouts of pain in and around his ribs. Over these two years, he has seen multiple doctors, had multiple X-rays, rounds of blood work, a CT scan and had got down to 120lbs (without trying to); all to be turned away and told he was just fine. Duane had mentioned to his doctors multiple times regarding a family history with different types of cancer.

A little over a month ago, Duane’s pain became so severe that he could not function properly on his own. Despite the hospital being directly across from my parents’ home, they still needed to call an ambulance as it was no longer possible for him to walk due to the incredible amount of pain and lack of breath.

Upon entry to the Cold Lake Hospital this time, he was met by our family doctor, Dr. Katambua, in the Emergency Department. For the first time, he was met with concern and care. Dr. Katambua saw the urgency in my father’s condition, ordered another CT scan, and admitted him. Before receiving the results of the CT scan, the doctor reviewed the previous scan he had eight months prior and noticed a spot appearing on the right lung. The new CT scan confirmed a mass on the lower lobe of the right lung, as well as evidence of metastasis. It also showed a fracture in the T4 vertebra, which the doctor believed was putting pressure on his spinal cord, weakening his movements, and causing some of the extreme pain. Dr. Katambua did everything he could at that point; he ordered an emergency MRI in Edmonton, and before we knew it, Duane was airlifted from Cold Lake to Edmonton.

Since arriving in Edmonton three weeks ago, Duane has undergone major spinal surgery to remove a portion of the T4 vertebra and have two rods placed. During the surgery, they also spotted a mass in the area of the break, which the surgeon was able to send off to pathology.

Unfortunately, we have received news of our worst fears: my dad has Stage 4 lung cancer. The cancer has metastasized to his liver, pancreas, and prostate, making it a very aggressive and advanced stage of cancer. The fracture in his T4 vertebra was caused by the cancer spreading to his bones, which has been contributing to his severe pain and limited mobility.

He is currently receiving palliative care to keep him as comfortable as possible while we await his next appointment with the oncologist in one week. The oncologist will discuss potential treatment options, which may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other measures to manage his symptoms and improve his quality of life.

During this time, my mother and I have been making the three-hour trek back and forth from Cold Lake multiple times a week, as the last thing we want to do is leave Dad alone during this difficult time. His loving wife, my mother Louise, is working full-time while also traveling back and forth. At this point, Louise will need to take time off work to help care for Duane, especially once he comes home.

This fundraiser will help cover his extra medical expenses for medications, travel expenses (gas and hotel/motel) for trips back and forth to see him, as well as to help prepare the home to make it more accessible and comfortable for him during treatments.

Myself, my husband Jesse, My children Aria & Max, and both of my parents Louise & Duane all thank every one of you in advance.

Any and all donations or shares will be forever appreciated.